Fishing at Lake Leo, Hanson County, South Dakota

• Overview

  Out in Hanson County, South Dakota, sits Lake Leo. Elevation runs to 1,306 feet. Surface area is around 65 acres, which gives you real water without needing a boat. Ground here is low by South Dakota standards. The closest town, Mitchell, is 14 miles away. Salem is 23 miles and Parkston 32 miles. If this one is busy: Morris Lake (6.3 miles), Lake Mitchell near enough 13 miles, Lehrman Slough (17 miles), Gross Lake near enough 20 miles and Fish Lake (30 miles). There is no boundary nearby to worry about.

• Where to Fish on Lake Leo

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Oyster and old piling give the only hard structure in sight. The channel is where water moves, and fish follow it. The near bank of Lake Leo is often the one people ignore. Timber holds fish long after the weed has died back.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The range across the year is 15°F to 74°F. A full turn of seasons, with the strongest sport on either side of summer. Break-up comes around early April, and the run that follows is short and strong. Break-up near early April, freeze-up near early December: that is the shape of an average year. Fishing peaks soon after break-up and again before the cold returns. The season on Lake Leo follows the weather closely.

• Tackle & Baits

  There is no clear statement anywhere on who can fish it. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. Sort the permit out before you load the car. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. The nearest alternative is Morris Lake, 6.3 miles out. Rules at Lake Leo are worth checking on the day.