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

Flathead Catfish
If you're after trophy-sized Flathead Catfish, Isabel, South Dakota, offers some fantastic opportunities. The Missouri River, particularly the stretch impounded by Lake Oahe, is the key. The deep, turbid waters and abundant forage base create ideal conditions for these ambush predators to thrive. Prime time is late spring through early fall. As the water warms, Flatheads become more active, especially during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods. Look for them around submerged timber, rocky points, and channel edges. A key local tip is to focus your efforts during periods of stable water levels, as rapid fluctuations can shut down the bite. The boat ramp at the Little Bend Recreation Area provides good access to productive areas. Be prepared with heavy tackle and live bait – large creek chubs or bullheads are local favorites – as these fish can reach impressive sizes in Lake Oahe. Be aware of strong currents and changing weather conditions on the Missouri River.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Isabel.
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 near Isabel?
Live bait like bullheads, green sunfish, or large minnows are excellent choices for targeting flathead catfish in the Isabel area. Cut bait can also be effective.
Are there any restrictions on flathead catfish size or quantity I can keep in South Dakota?
Good news for flathead catfish anglers! South Dakota has no size or bag limits for flathead catfish, allowing for liberal harvest.
Do I need a fishing license to target flathead catfish in South Dakota?
Yes, you'll need either a Resident Fishing License or a Nonresident Fishing License to legally fish for flathead catfish in South Dakota.
Can I fish for flathead catfish year-round in the Isabel area?
Yes, the flathead catfish season is open year-round in South Dakota, so you can target them whenever the conditions are right.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Isabel
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Isabel?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


