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 Ethan. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Channel Catfish
Ethan, South Dakota, offers some fantastic channel catfish opportunities, particularly in the James River and its associated backwaters and oxbows. This area is known for its healthy catfish population due to the abundant forage and diverse habitat. The best time to target these whiskered giants is from late spring through early fall, when water temperatures are warmer and catfish are actively feeding. Pre-spawn (late May-June) and post-spawn (late June-July) periods can be especially productive. For bank anglers, try accessing the river near bridges and public access points along Highway 34. A simple slip-sinker rig with stinkbait, cut bait, or nightcrawlers is often all you need. Be prepared for some fast action, as the channel cats in this region are known for their aggressive strikes. Remember to check local regulations regarding size and creel limits.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Ethan.
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 to use for channel catfish around Ethan?
Channel catfish in the Ethan area respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what's working best on any given day.
Is there a limit to how many channel catfish I can keep in South Dakota?
No, in South Dakota, there is no bag limit or size restriction for channel catfish. You can keep what you catch.
Do I need a fishing license to catch channel catfish in South Dakota?
Yes, you need a valid South Dakota fishing license to legally fish for channel catfish and other species in the state's public waters.
Can I fish for channel catfish year-round near Ethan?
Yes, the season for channel catfish in South Dakota is open year-round. This allows anglers to target them whenever the weather permits.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Ethan
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Ethan?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.