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Flathead Catfish

Flathead Catfish

Flathead Catfish in South Dakota are restricted to large rivers in the southeastern part of the state and Lake Mitchell in Davison County.

They're native to the Missouri River and its major tributaries, particularly the lower portions of the Big Sioux and James rivers.

An isolated population exists in Lake Mitchell, presumed to have originated from an unauthorized introduction from the nearby James River in 2007.

Physical Characteristics:
  • These predatory catfish have a distinctive tubular, scaleless body that's brown to yellow and mottled with darker brown-black colors, featuring a broad, flat head with a protruding lower jaw and characteristic barbels.
  • They can grow to impressive sizes - the current South Dakota record is 63 pounds, 8 ounces from the James River.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Restricted to large rivers in the southeastern part of the state and Lake Mitchell in Davison County.
  • Native to the Missouri River and its major tributaries, particularly the lower portions of the Big Sioux and James rivers.

Key Locations

  • Focus efforts on the Missouri River, James River (particularly the lower 105 river kilometers from Olivet to the confluence), Big Sioux River, and Lake Mitchell.

Specific Spots

  • Target deep pools, log jams, undercut banks, rock piles, and areas with submerged timber during daylight hours.
  • They prefer deep pools with abundant cover like logs, undercut banks, and rock piles, avoiding fast currents.
  • Concentrate on tributary mouths, especially during spring when fish stage for spawning runs.

Flathead Catfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Flathead Catfish in South Dakota?

Use large live baits like sunfish (bluegill/brim), gizzard shad, or bullheads rather than cut bait or stink baits that work for other catfish species. Live black bullheads on 3/0 to 8/0 circle hooks.

When is the best time to fish for Flathead Catfish in South Dakota?

Late March through October, with September and October being prime time. Late March through May offers excellent pre-spawn action, while post-spawn summer fishing can be productive once spawning concludes.

How do you catch Flathead Catfish in South Dakota?

Live bait suspended 2-3 feet off bottom with bobbers works well, as does bottom fishing with Carolina rigs or fish finder rigs. In rivers, try trotlines with live black bullheads on 3/0 to 8/0 circle hooks.

What do Flathead Catfish eat?

Flatheads are primarily nocturnal ambush predators that feed almost exclusively on live fish, including sunfish, carp, bullheads, and other catfish, though smaller individuals also consume crayfish and insects. They shift to piscivory at approximately 400mm in length.

Where do Flathead Catfish live in South Dakota?

Restricted to large rivers in the southeastern part of the state and Lake Mitchell in Davison County. Native to the Missouri River and its major tributaries, particularly the lower portions of the Big Sioux and James rivers.

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