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 Vermillion. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Flathead Catfish
If you're after a trophy flathead catfish in South Dakota, Vermillion is a great place to start. The Missouri River here is a prime location, known for its deep holes and abundant structure that these whiskered giants love. The best time to target them is from late spring through early fall, with the pre-spawn period in late May and June being particularly productive. Focus on areas with submerged timber, deep bends, and confluence points where smaller creeks enter the river. A key to success here is using live bait – bullheads, bluegills, or even carp are all effective. Be prepared for a fight; these fish can get huge! A helpful local tip: the boat ramp at Clay County Park provides good access to the river, but be mindful of strong currents and fluctuating water levels, especially after heavy rains upstream.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Vermillion.
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 Vermillion?
Live bait like bullheads, green sunfish, or large shiners are very effective. Cut bait can also work well, especially oily fish like shad or herring.
Are there any limits on flathead catfish I can keep when fishing near Vermillion, SD?
No, in South Dakota, there is no bag limit or size restriction on flathead catfish. You can keep what you catch.
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 and other species in South Dakota.
When is the best time of year to fish for flathead catfish in the Vermillion area?
The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are generally the best times to target flathead catfish. They become more active as the water temperature rises.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in South Dakota
Other Species to Fish in Vermillion
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Vermillion?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.