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 Pierre. Right now in February, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Channel Catfish
Pierre, South Dakota, offers fantastic channel catfish opportunities on the Missouri River and its sprawling reservoirs, Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe. The river's current, combined with the diverse structure of the lakes, creates a perfect environment for catfish growth. The best time to target them is from late spring through fall, especially after a good rain when the river levels rise and fresh scents wash into the water. Look for catfish near submerged timber, creek mouths, and rocky drop-offs. A local trick is to use cut bait or stinkbait fished on a slip-sinker rig near the bottom. Access to the river and lakes is readily available through numerous boat ramps and public access points around Pierre. Be aware that these Missouri River channel cats can grow to impressive sizes, so be prepared for a fight!
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Pierre.
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 is the best bait for catching channel catfish in the Pierre area?
Popular and effective baits for channel catfish in Pierre include stink baits, nightcrawlers, cut bait (like sucker or shad), and chicken liver. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on that day.
Are there any restrictions on keeping channel catfish in South Dakota?
No, there are currently no size or bag limits for channel catfish in South Dakota, so you can keep what you catch.
Do I need a fishing license to target channel catfish in South Dakota?
Yes, you will need a valid South Dakota fishing license to legally fish for channel catfish.
Is there a specific season for channel catfish in the Pierre area?
No, the season for channel catfish in South Dakota is open year-round, so you can fish for them any time of the year.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Pierre
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Pierre?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


