Inflatable tubes are stocked at Yankton’s hardware and outdoor sports stores. Canoes and kayaks can be rented from several outfitters. If you launch a tube or canoe at one of the boat docks below the dam, you can expect to reach downtown Yankton’s Riverside Park, just past the two bridges, within about two hours. If you want to continue for another two hours or so, you might plan to land at the St. Helena boat ramp on the Nebraska side of the river. Of course, you’ll want to organize your trip so that you have a car or ride available at your stopping point. While on the river, expect to see eagles, hawks, herons and egrets. If you are not splashing too loudly, you’re even likely to glimpse fish, turtles and other creatures of the river. Fishermen cast for walleye, perch, northerns and other species on the river and lake. The tailwaters just below the dam are a popular spot and can easily be fished without a boat. fishermen. Further north are Lake Menno, near the town of Menno, and Lake Henry just east of the town of Scotland; both are easy to fish from shore or in small boats, and both have limited camping facilities. South of Yankton in Nebraska, you’ll find Bartz Reservoir — a quiet and little-known lake that locals like to fish. James River, famous for being one of the world’s flattest rivers, meanders through the middle of Yankton County before joining the Missouri just east of Yankton. “The Jim,” as it’s fondly called, is a muddy tributary to the Missouri but it’s especially popular for fishing “cats,” and some kayaks and canoeists enjoy the isolation and primitive peace that it offers. Wherever you go, be sure to abide by Nebraska and South Dakota fishing and boating laws. Both states make it easy and affordable by offering 1-day, 3-day and annual licenses. Nebraska even offers lifetime permits. Remember, the licenses are not a tax but rather a contribution to preserving our waters for future generations. OUR SMALLER WATERS vWATER continued from page 9 Canoeists, kayakers and anglers also like to enjoy the smaller lakes in the Yankton area. Marindahl Lake and Beaver Lake (aka State Lake) north of the city are popular with vPhotos by Katie Hunhoff and Bernie Hunhoff Yankton School District’s Tuition Free PRESCHOOL Now Accepting Applications For The 2017-18 School Year! Yankton School District Preschool is a tuition free preschool for 3 and 4 year-olds. Call the Yankton School District Administration Building 605-665-3998 for more information. Yankton, South Dakota – 11