Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In South Dakota

All about fishing for flathead, blue and channel catfish in SD.

You can find catfish in most of South Dakotas major lakes including Angostura Reservoir, Belle Fourche Reservoir, Lake Albert, Lake Francis Case, Lake Kampeska, Lake Oahe, Lake Pelican, Lake Poinsett, Lake Sharpe, Lake Thompson, Lake Traverse, Lewis And Clark Lake and Shadehill Reservoir. They cal also be caught out of rivers, smaller lakes and ponds across the state.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in South Dakota?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

South Dakota State Record Catfish

The state record channel catfish was caught from a farm pond.

The state record flathead catfish came from the James River.

The state record blue catfish came out of the Big Sioux River.

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout South Dakota. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Catfish Fishing Video

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Catfish information by state.