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 Vermillion. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Channel Catfish
If you're after channel catfish near Vermillion, SD, the Missouri River is your primary destination. This mighty river teems with catfish, offering anglers ample opportunities to hook into some whiskered giants. Summer is the peak season, with catfish actively feeding in the warmer water. Focus on areas with current breaks, such as outside bends, submerged timber, and the mouths of tributaries. Cut bait, stink bait, and live bait like nightcrawlers are all effective. A simple slip-sinker rig is a go-to setup for targeting catfish in the Missouri River. Be prepared for strong currents and snags. A helpful tip is to use heavier weights to keep your bait on the bottom. Access to the river is available at several public boat ramps and access points around Vermillion. The Missouri River's channel catfish population is robust, and you can expect to encounter fish of varying sizes, with the chance of landing a true trophy.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Vermillion.
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 channel catfish in the Vermillion area?
Anglers in the Vermillion area often have success using stinkbaits, cut bait (like sucker or shad), nightcrawlers, and chicken liver for channel catfish. Experiment to find what the catfish are biting on that day.
Is there a limit to the number of channel catfish I can catch near Vermillion?
There is no limit on the number of channel catfish you can catch in South Dakota. Enjoy your fishing!
Do I need a fishing license to catch channel catfish near Vermillion, SD?
Yes, you will need a valid South Dakota fishing license to fish for channel catfish near Vermillion.
What size channel catfish can I expect to catch in Vermillion?
The size of channel catfish you can catch near Vermillion can vary, but it's not uncommon to catch catfish ranging from a few pounds to over 10 pounds. Some anglers even catch catfish over 20 pounds!
More Channel Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Vermillion
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Vermillion?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


