Fishing Charters in South Dakota
Browse fishing charters in South Dakota that can help you catch flathead 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 Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish can be caught year-round in Big Stone City. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Flathead Catfish
If you're targeting flathead catfish in South Dakota, Big Stone City is a great place to start. Big Stone Lake, straddling the border with Minnesota, is known for harboring some truly impressive flatheads. The best time to target these whiskered giants is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Pre-spawn (late May/early June) and post-spawn (late June/early July) can be particularly productive as the fish are actively feeding. Look for areas with submerged timber, deep holes near the old railroad bridge, or channel edges where the cats lie in wait. Live bait like bullheads or bluegills are your best bet. A key tip for Big Stone Lake is to pay attention to water clarity. Flatheads prefer slightly murky water, so target areas where the water is a bit stained. The public boat ramp on the south end of the lake offers good access, but be prepared for some weeds during the summer months. Remember to check the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks regulations for size and possession limits.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Big Stone City.
Flathead Catfish Fishing Regulations in South Dakota
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Resident Fishing License or Nonresident 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 to use for flathead catfish near Big Stone City?
Live bait such as bluegills, bullheads, or creek chubs are very effective for catching flathead catfish. Cut bait can also work well. Focus on areas with structure like submerged logs or rocky bottoms.
Are there any limits on flathead catfish I can keep in South Dakota?
No, there is no bag limit or size limit for flathead catfish in South Dakota. You can fish for them year-round.
Do I need a fishing license to target flathead catfish in Big Stone City?
Yes, you will need either a Resident Fishing License or a Nonresident Fishing License to legally fish for flathead catfish in South Dakota.
Where are some good spots to fish for flathead catfish around Big Stone City?
Big Stone Lake is a popular spot. Focus on areas near the old railroad bridge or any submerged structure. The river channels leading into and out of the lake can also be productive.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Big Stone City
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Big Stone City?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.