Fishing Charters in South Dakota
Browse fishing charters in South Dakota that can help you catch channel 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 Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Bonesteel. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Channel Catfish
If you're after channel catfish in South Dakota, the waters near Bonesteel offer excellent opportunities. The Missouri River, particularly Lake Francis Case behind Fort Randall Dam, is renowned for its catfish population. Spring and summer are the prime times to target these whiskered predators. As the water warms, catfish become more active, moving into shallower areas to feed. Look for areas with current, submerged timber, or rocky structure. Cut bait, stink baits, and nightcrawlers are all effective choices. A local tip is to fish near the mouths of feeder creeks or rivers, as these areas often attract catfish looking for food. Several boat ramps provide access to Lake Francis Case in the Bonesteel area, including the one at Platte Creek Recreation Area. Be prepared for strong currents and changing water levels, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Remember to check the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks regulations for size and possession limits on channel catfish.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Bonesteel.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in South Dakota
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing License
⚠️ 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 for channel catfish around Bonesteel, SD?
Channel catfish readily take a variety of baits. Popular choices include stink baits, nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and cut bait. Experiment to see what's working best on a given day.
Are there any limits on the size or number of channel catfish I can keep in South Dakota?
No, there are currently no size or bag limits for channel catfish in South Dakota. You can fish for them year-round.
Do I need a fishing license to catch channel catfish near Bonesteel?
Yes, you will need a valid South Dakota Fishing License to fish for channel catfish.
Where are some good spots to fish for channel catfish near Bonesteel?
The Missouri River near Bonesteel is a great place to target channel catfish. Look for areas with current breaks, submerged structure, or near the mouths of creeks and rivers.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Bonesteel
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Bonesteel?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


