
Alex Massa: Finding Inspiration in Nature
See how this accomplished jazz musician channels their creativity in South Dakota.
With many accomplishments behind them — trumpeter, composer, arts educator, angler, activist and certified yogi — Alex Massa is slowing down to focus on what truly speaks to them. In South Dakota, peaceful days fly-fishing on Pactola Lake and the wide-open beauty of the Black Hills fuel Alex's creative process, offering both freedom and inspiration to compose and perform the jazz music they love.
Watch this video to see how a search for belonging, connection and community led Alex to this remarkable place.
Fly-fishing is about learning how to read the water … staying still for long enough that your eyes adjust. That’s a great metaphor for life — if you really want to understand something, you can’t scroll past it.
”START PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP TO SOUTH DAKOTA

Order Your Free 2026 Vacation Guide
Find our travel guide, state map and more free resources for trip planning.

Sign Up for Our E-Newsletter
Receive monthly inspiration about places to see, activities and upcoming events.

Win a Trip to South Dakota!
Enter for your chance to win a vacation filled with unforgettable stories.









