Lake Sharpe

Nestled in central South Dakota, Lake Sharpe is an expansive reservoir, a testament to human engineering and a natural paradise. Created by the Big Bend Dam on the Missouri River, this lake is an integral part of the region’s ecosystem and a hub for recreational activities.

Geographical Layout

Spanning an impressive 56,884 acres and reaching depths of 78 feet, Lake Sharpe stretches approximately 80 miles in length with a 200-mile shoreline. The lake’s vastness ranks it as the 54th largest reservoir in the United States. It sprawls across multiple counties, including Buffalo, Lyman, Hyde, Hughes, and Stanley, and runs from Ft. Thompson to the Oahe Dam near Pierre.

Historical Background

Construction of the Big Bend Dam began in 1959, leading to the formation of Lake Sharpe. The lake was named in honor of Merrill Q. Sharpe, the 17th Governor of South Dakota, recognizing his contributions to the state. Lake Sharpe’s establishment transformed the landscape, bringing both ecological changes and recreational opportunities.

Biodiversity and Ecology

Lake Sharpe is home to a diverse range of fish species, making it a haven for anglers. The reservoir is teeming with walleye, sauger, smallmouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike, white bass, yellow perch, black crappie, and even rainbow trout. The walleye, supported by an abundant gizzard shad population, stands out as the primary gamefish in the lake.

The surrounding areas of Lake Sharpe are rich in wildlife, including big game animals like whitetail and mule deer, elk, bison, and coyotes, as well as wild turkeys. Bird enthusiasts can spot various species of waterfowl and upland game birds, including ducks, geese, pheasants, prairie chickens, and grouse.

Recreational Opportunities

Lake Sharpe is surrounded by over 80,000 acres of public land and water, offering myriad recreational activities. The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks maintains several recreation areas and boat launching facilities. Notable spots include the West Bend Recreation Area and Farm Island State Recreation Area, both offering access to the lake’s natural beauty and recreational amenities.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also contributes to the area’s recreational infrastructure with the maintenance of campgrounds and wildlife areas near Big Bend Dam, such as the Left Tailrace Campground.

Cultural and Social Impact

The creation of Lake Sharpe had significant cultural and social repercussions, particularly for the indigenous communities in the region. The western shore of the lake falls within the Lower Brule Indian Reservation, while the eastern shore borders the Crow Creek Indian Reservation. The construction of the reservoir led to the loss of fertile bottomlands crucial for agriculture, profoundly impacting the self-sufficiency and economic stability of the tribes in these reservations.