Fishing Charters in South Dakota
Browse fishing charters in South Dakota that can help you catch blue catfish.


Dakota Prairie Angling
Watertown, South Dakota
Dakota Prairie Angling is a walleye guide service near Whitlocks Bay on beautiful Lake Oahe. Dakota Prairie Angling also provides ice fishing on northeastern South Dakota glacial lakes.


Central Dakota Guide Service
Central Dakota Guide Service provides you amazing guides for your hunting and fishing adventures.


Curtis Lagan Guiding
If you’re looking for a variety of fishing, look no further! Nestled in one of the greatest fishing spots in the country is Lake Oahe, a dammed area of the Missouri River.


Dave Spaid Hunting And Fishing Guide Service
Dave Spaid Guiding offers premier South Dakota fishing and hunting outfitter services. South Dakota Walleye Fishing and Pheasant Hunts at it's finest!


Brad Beeler Fishing
Brad Beeler Fishing Guide. Lake Oahe::Lake Sharpe::Missouri River::Pierre, SD


Fish Hunter Guide Service


Nebraska John Guide Service
Walleye Fishing Guide in Pierre Walleye fishing, Pierre, SD Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe


Buffalo Butte Ranch


South Dakota Access Guide Service
Prime South Dakota Pheasant hunting in South Dakota! Also offering Walleye & Pike Fishing! Excellent accommodations, food, and dogs with decades of experience.


Finn Provisions Fly Shop
Tail Finn offers fly fishing services for The Black Hills of South Dakota. Anglers of all abilities, no matter gender, or age are welcome to fish with us. Our seasoned group of guides want you to have fun, catch fish, and hopefully learn a thing or two about the sport we so dearly love.


Dakota Prairie Guide Service
South Dakota fishing guide and Pheasant hunting outfitter service for the Chamberlain and Oacoma, SD area, including the Missouri River, Lake Francis Case and Lake Sharpe.


Cleland Guide Service
Official website for Cleland Guide Service. A family owned business located in central South Dakota. Your fishing and hunting vacation awaits. Book early for be
Best Time to Catch Blue Catfish
Blue Catfish can be caught year-round in Gayville. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Blue Catfish
If you're chasing trophy blue catfish in South Dakota, the stretch of the Missouri River near Gayville is prime territory. This area benefits from the warmer waters released from Gavins Point Dam, creating ideal conditions for blues to thrive, especially during their spawning season. The best time to target these giants is late spring through early fall, with the pre-spawn period (May-June) often producing the most consistent action. Look for blues in deep holes and along channel edges, particularly where there's current. A great access point is the boat ramp at the Clay County Park, just south of Gayville. Keep an eye on water levels, as fluctuations can impact the bite. Locals often use cut bait like sucker or shad, fished on a Carolina rig with a circle hook. Be prepared for a battle; these Missouri River blues can reach impressive sizes!
How to Catch Blue Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Blue Catfish in Gayville.
Blue Catfish Fishing Regulations in South Dakota
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
1 per day
Size Limit
30-inch minimum
License Required
Fishing License
Only one blue catfish greater than 30 inches may be possessed.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the South Dakota state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in South Dakota
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for Blue Catfish in Gayville, SD?
Blue catfish in the Missouri River near Gayville respond well to cut bait, live bait like shad or bluegill, and prepared stink baits. Experiment to see what they're hitting on that day.
What is the legal size limit for Blue Catfish I can keep in South Dakota?
South Dakota regulations stipulate a minimum size of 30 inches for Blue Catfish. Any Blue Catfish you catch must be at least 30 inches long to be legally kept.
How many Blue Catfish can I keep per day in Gayville, SD?
The daily bag limit for Blue Catfish in South Dakota is 1 per day. Make sure to adhere to this limit when fishing near Gayville.
Do I need a fishing license to target Blue Catfish in Gayville?
Yes, a valid South Dakota fishing license is required to fish for Blue Catfish in the Gayville area. Make sure you have your license with you before heading out to the water.
More Blue Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Gayville
Ready to Catch Blue Catfish in Gayville?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


