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

Flathead Catfish
If you're hunting flathead catfish in South Dakota, Bonesteel is a great place to start. The Missouri River, particularly the stretch bordering Fort Randall Reservation, is renowned for its trophy flatheads. Anglers come here seeking the challenge of landing truly massive fish. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, with the pre-spawn period (late May-June) and late summer into early fall often producing the biggest fish. Focus on areas with significant structure – think submerged timber, deep holes, and rocky points. Access to the river is available through several public access points and boat ramps around Bonesteel, but be aware that river conditions can change rapidly, so always check local reports before heading out. Night fishing is especially productive for flatheads, and using live bait like bullheads or large creek chubs is key to enticing those big cats.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Bonesteel.
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's the best bait to use for flathead catfish in Bonesteel?
Live bait like bullheads, green sunfish, or large shiners are very effective for catching flathead catfish. Cut bait can also work well, especially oily fish like shad or herring.
Are there any restrictions on flathead catfish size or quantity in Bonesteel?
No, in South Dakota, there are no size or bag limits for flathead catfish. You can keep what you catch.
Do I need a fishing license to target flathead catfish near Bonesteel?
Yes, you'll need either a Resident Fishing License or a Nonresident Fishing License to fish legally in South Dakota.
Can I fish for flathead catfish year-round near Bonesteel, SD?
Yes, the season for flathead catfish is open year-round in South Dakota, so you can fish for them whenever you like.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Bonesteel
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Bonesteel?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


