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

Channel Catfish
The mighty Missouri River near Yankton, South Dakota, is a channel catfish paradise. The river's current, structure, and abundant forage create ideal conditions for growing trophy-sized cats. While catfish can be caught year-round, the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are generally the most productive. Focus on areas with current breaks, such as wing dams, submerged timber, and channel edges. A classic catfish rig with a heavy weight and cut bait (such as goldeye or sucker) is highly effective. The James River confluence near Yankton can also be a hotspot. A local tip: be prepared for strong currents and use plenty of weight to keep your bait on the bottom. Also, respect the power of the river and always wear a life jacket. The catfish in this area are known for their size and fight, so be ready for a battle!
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Yankton.
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
Is there a limit to how many channel catfish I can keep in South Dakota?
No, there is no bag limit for channel catfish in South Dakota. You can keep as many as you catch.
What are some good locations near Yankton to fish for channel catfish?
The Missouri River near Yankton is a popular spot. Also, try local lakes and reservoirs known to hold catfish populations.
What's the best bait for catching channel catfish around Yankton, SD?
Popular baits include nightcrawlers, cut bait (like shad or suckers), chicken liver, and commercial stink baits. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on.
Do I need a license to fish for channel catfish in South Dakota?
Yes, a valid South Dakota fishing license is required to fish for channel catfish.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Yankton
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Yankton?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


