Ice fishing Lake DeSmet
When the lake freezes, anglers walk out for trout, walleye and perch. Derby dates, access points and how to check the ice.
The derby
The Rotary Club of Sheridan runs an ice fishing derby on Lake DeSmet. The fifth annual one ran Saturday, February 22, 2025. They tagged 200 fish worth $250 each and paid $1,000, $300 and $200 for the longest fish, with categories for trout, walleye, perch and other. Fishing ran from sunrise until fish were turned in at 5 p.m. [The Sheridan Press]
The 2027 date was not out as of October 27, 2026. It is on our events page and goes in the Lake Letter once the club posts it.
What you can catch
Game and Fish lists rainbow, brown, lake and cutthroat trout, walleye, kokanee, yellow perch and rock bass in the lake. [WGFD] The lake trout limit may change for 2027; see the lake trout section.
Pike alert: Game and Fish found an illegally released northern pike in the lake in October 2026. Kill any pike you catch, keep it and call (307) 672-7418. [WGFD]
Getting on the ice
- Mikesell-Potts (Exit 51): south shore day-use area; one restroom stays open year-round. [Johnson County]
- Monument Point (Exit 47): Game and Fish access, open year-round. [WGFD]
Ice safety
We have not found any agency that posts ice thickness for Lake DeSmet. Check it yourself every trip.
- Drill a test hole near shore and keep checking as you go out. Thickness changes over springs, inlets and pressure ridges.
- Fish with someone, tell someone else where you went, carry ice picks and a throw rope.
- Wind on open plains water means early ice can break up fast. Watch the forecast on the lake board.
- Warm days and late season are when people go through. If it looks gray, wet or honeycombed, stay off.
Warm up nearby
Buffalo is 8 miles south for food and fuel. [Johnson County] Want a warm bed after a day on the ice? See where to stay.
FAQ
When is the ice fishing derby at Lake DeSmet?
The Rotary Club of Sheridan has held it in February. The fifth annual derby was Saturday, February 22, 2025. The 2027 date had not been announced as of October 2026.
Is the ice safe at Lake DeSmet?
Nobody certifies it. Ice thickness changes across the lake and through the day. Drill test holes as you walk out, and stay off if you are not sure.
What do people catch through the ice?
The 2025 derby had categories for trout, walleye, perch and other fish. Game and Fish lists all of those in the lake.
Get the derby date
We post the derby date and ice notes in the Lake Letter. One email a season.