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 Hartford. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Flathead Catfish
If you're after flathead catfish in the Hartford, South Dakota area, you'll want to focus your efforts on the local stretches of the Big Sioux River. This river system offers the deep holes and structure that flatheads love. The best time to target these whiskered giants is from late spring through summer, when the water temperatures rise and they become more active. Look for areas with submerged timber, rock piles, or current breaks. A key local tip is to use live bait – large bullheads or bluegills are prime choices. Access can be a bit tricky in some spots, but there are several public access points and bridge crossings along the Big Sioux near Hartford. Be prepared for some potentially muddy conditions, especially after rainfall. The flatheads in this area aren't necessarily trophy-sized on average, but you can still find some real lunkers if you put in the time and effort.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Hartford.
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 Hartford, SD?
Live bait is generally the most effective for flathead catfish. Try using live bluegill, green sunfish, or bullheads. These are readily available and appealing to larger catfish.
Are there any limits to the size or number of flathead catfish I can keep in South Dakota?
No, there are currently no size or bag limits for flathead catfish in South Dakota. You can fish for them year-round.
Do I need a fishing license to target flathead catfish near Hartford?
Yes, you'll need either a Resident Fishing License or a Nonresident Fishing License to legally fish for flathead catfish in South Dakota.
When is the best time of year to go after flathead catfish in the Hartford area?
While you can fish for them year-round, the warmer months, especially late spring and summer, are usually the most productive for flathead catfish. They tend to be more active when the water temperature rises.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Hartford
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Hartford?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.