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Pierre's Premier Lake Oahe Fishing Adventure

  • Published Date: July 16, 2025
  • Fishing
  • $550 - $750 price range

Summary

Get ready for an action-packed day on the water with Captain Scott Van Liere, a seasoned pro who knows these lakes like the back of his hand. We'll kick off at 6 AM for a full 8 hours chasing bass, catfish, and walleye across some of South Dakota's best fishing spots. From the sprawling Lake Oahe to the lively Lake Sharpe, and even some local secret spots, we'll cover plenty of ground. Scott's years of experience mean you'll get top-notch tips as we troll, jig, and cast our way through the day. Walleye fans, book early to hit those prime bite times! Don't forget your South Dakota fishing license, some grub, and drinks for the day. A little responsible drinking is fine on board. Just keep in mind bookings are non-refundable, so lock in your date and get ready for a day of solid fishing and expert guidance on these fantastic Pierre area lakes.
Pierre's Premier Lake Oahe Fishing Adventure

Lakes and Lunkers

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Largemouth bass caught while fishing in SD

Cast. Catch. Smile. Repeat.

Great outdoor adventure at Pierre

Nice family get away.

3 unidentified big fish caught by 4 people in Pierre

Reeling in memories in Pierre, SD

Walleye fish caught in SD by angler

Hooked on fishing in Pierre

Group of 10 people fishing in Pierre

Just a line in Pierre’s water

3 big fish caught by 3 people in Pierre

Making ripples in Pierre

2 fish caught in Pierre, South Dakota during fishing trip

Bait, boat, and a big catch

Two big fish caught while fishing in SD

Morning casts, Pierre style

Two great barracuda, 25 inches long, caught while fishing in SD

The fish bite better here

Three anglers enjoying a fishing trip in SD

Missouri River, Pierre pride

Largemouth bass caught while fishing in SD

Cast. Catch. Smile. Repeat.

Great outdoor adventure at Pierre

Nice family get away.

3 unidentified big fish caught by 4 people in Pierre

Reeling in memories in Pierre, SD

Walleye fish caught in SD by angler

Hooked on fishing in Pierre

Group of 10 people fishing in Pierre

Just a line in Pierre’s water

3 big fish caught by 3 people in Pierre

Making ripples in Pierre

2 fish caught in Pierre, South Dakota during fishing trip

Bait, boat, and a big catch

Two big fish caught while fishing in SD

Morning casts, Pierre style

Two great barracuda, 25 inches long, caught while fishing in SD

The fish bite better here

Three anglers enjoying a fishing trip in SD

Missouri River, Pierre pride

Largemouth bass caught while fishing in SD

Cast. Catch. Smile. Repeat.

Great outdoor adventure at Pierre

Nice family get away.

3 unidentified big fish caught by 4 people in Pierre

Reeling in memories in Pierre, SD

Walleye fish caught in SD by angler

Hooked on fishing in Pierre

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Full-Day Pierre Fishing: Lakes Oahe & Sharpe

Ready to hit the water for some serious Pierre fishing action? Hop aboard with Scott Van Liere Guide Service for a full day of chasing walleye, bass, and catfish across South Dakota's premier fishing lakes. We'll cruise from Spring Creek to Cow Creek, tackling the vast expanse of Lake Oahe before dropping down to the fish-filled waters of Lake Sharpe. With local hotspots and hidden gems on the agenda, you're in for a day of non-stop angling excitement.

What to Expect on the Water

Rise and shine, anglers! We'll meet you at the dock bright and early at 6:00 AM to kick off our 8-hour fishing adventure. Captain Scott knows these waters like the back of his hand, so get ready for a day filled with prime fishing spots and local intel. We'll be targeting the big three: walleye, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, Scott's got the tips and tricks to help you land that trophy catch. Bring your South Dakota fishing license, pack a lunch, and don't forget those drinks – you're welcome to bring some responsible refreshments on board if that's your style. Just remember, we run a tight ship when it comes to bookings, so once you're locked in, you're committed to a day of epic fishing.

Techniques & Tactics

On this trip, we're pulling out all the stops to get you on fish. We'll be mixing it up with trolling, jigging, and casting – whatever it takes to entice those bites. For the walleye, we might run some bottom bouncers or pull cranks, depending on where they're hanging. When it comes to smallies, get ready to work those jigs along rocky points or toss some topwater if they're in a smashing mood. And for those big channel cats? We'll set up with some stink bait or cut bait and let 'em rip. Scott's been bass fishing these Pierre waters for years, so he's always got a few tricks up his sleeve. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the game, you'll pick up some killer techniques to add to your arsenal.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"My sisters and I wanted to get Dad a guided fishing trip for his 60th Birthday and Scott came highly recommended! And boy did I find out why! He made sure we found fish and made the environment in the boat a blast! Great guy to be around and there is talk about doing fishing trips every other year now! Thanks Scott! Five star plus rating in my book!" - Sheyna Rae

"Scott delivered again this year. We got our limit by 2 pm. Scott's very knowledgeable and always knows where the fish are." - Bill

"Puts you on the fish where they are biting. Always catch a lot of fish when on his boat. Always a great experience with Scott. Highly recommended. Thanks Scott" - Matt

Species You'll Want to Hook

Walleye: Known as "marble-eyes" to locals, these golden-bellied predators are the crown jewel of Lake Oahe fishing. They're cunning, hard-fighting, and absolutely delicious. Spring and fall are prime times to target walleye, but with Scott's know-how, you can get into them year-round. Expect to tangle with fish in the 15-25 inch range, with the chance at a real wall-hanger. There's nothing quite like the thump of a walleye hitting your line – it's addictive!

Smallmouth Bass: Pound-for-pound, smallies are some of the hardest fighting fish in these lakes. They love rocky structure and will absolutely crush a well-presented bait. We typically see bronzebacks in the 2-4 pound range, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 5+ pounder – Lake Oahe and Sharpe are known for producing some bruisers. These acrobatic fish will test your skills with their jumps and runs, making for an exciting fight every time.

Channel Catfish: Don't let their whiskers fool you – these cats have some serious attitude. Channel cats in Pierre's lakes can grow to impressive sizes, with 5-10 pounders being common and the chance at a 20+ pound monster always on the table. They're most active in the warmer months, and once hooked, they'll give you a workout as they dive for the bottom. Plus, if you're looking for some good eatin', channels are hard to beat for their mild, sweet flavor.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, if you're itching for a day of top-notch fishing on some of South Dakota's best waters, you can't go wrong with Scott Van Liere Guide Service. We're talking about a full day of chasing after walleye, smallmouth, and catfish across Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe – that's a recipe for a killer time on the water. Scott's local knowledge and years of experience mean you're not just fishing, you're getting an insider's tour of Pierre's hottest fishing spots. Whether you're looking to fill the livewell or just want to bend some rods, this trip's got you covered. Don't miss out on the chance to create some lasting fishing memories – book your spot now and get ready for a day of non-stop action on the water. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're reeling in that trophy catch!

Customer Reviews

SCOTTS FISHING MAGIC

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My sisters and I wanted to get Dad a guided fishing trip for his 60th Birthday and Scott came highly recommended! And boy did I find out why! He made sure we found fish and made the environment in the boat a blast! Great guy to be around and there is talk about doing fishing trips every other year now! Thanks Scott! Five star plus rating in my book!

Read More
SF
Sheyna Rae Fischer

June 16, 2021

HOOKED ON GIFTING

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Here's a good gift idea for the fisherman in your life.

CC
Chad Chamley

December 10, 2019

SCOTT KNOWS FISH

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Scott delivered again this year. We got our limit by 2 pm. Scott’s very knowledgeable and always knows where the fish are.

BL
Bill Lohry

September 26, 2019

FISH FRENZY CAPTAIN

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Puts you on the fish where they are biting. Always catch a lot of fish when on his boat. Always a great experience with Scott. Highly recommended. Thanks Scott

MP
Matt Pollard

June 28, 2019

MACHINE GUIDE SCOTT

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Awesome guide. The guy is a machine. Don’t tell him I said it though.

SM
Shane McKay

June 25, 2019

Learn more about the species

Channel Catfish

Channel catfish are a fun target in our local waters. These whiskered fish typically run 2-10 pounds, though 20+ pounders aren't unheard of. You'll find them hanging out near the bottom in deeper holes and around structure. They're not picky eaters, feeding on everything from insects to small fish. Catfish really come alive in warmer months, especially at night. Anglers love 'em for their strong fight and tasty meat. To land one, try a simple rig with some stinkbait or cut bait near the bottom. Just watch those sharp fins when you're handling them! A local trick is to fish the edges where shallow areas drop off into deeper water – catfish love to patrol those zones. Whether you're after a trophy or just some good eating, channel cats rarely disappoint.

Channel Catfish

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass are real fighters in our lakes and rivers. Most run 1-3 pounds, but 4-5 pounders aren't uncommon. Look for them around rocky areas, drop-offs, and submerged timber. They love clear, cool water. Spring and fall are prime times, but summer mornings and evenings can be hot too. Anglers prize smallies for their acrobatic jumps and hard-pulling fights. They're also great eating if you choose to keep a few. To target them, try casting soft plastics or small crankbaits near structure. A light spinning setup with 6-10 pound line works well. One local trick: when the bite's tough, switch to a drop shot rig with a small plastic worm. Work it slowly along the bottom, especially near points and drop-offs. Smallmouth can't resist an easy meal dancing right in front of their noses.

Smallmouth Bass

Walleye

Walleye are a prized catch in these parts, known for their tasty white meat. Most run 15-20 inches, but bigger ones pushing 30 inches show up now and then. You'll find them hanging around rocky points, deep weed edges, and drop-offs. They prefer cooler water, so we target them deeper in summer. Spring and fall are prime walleye seasons here. Anglers love the challenge – walleye can be finicky, but the reward is worth it. They put up a good fight and make excellent table fare. To boost your chances, try slow-trolling with a bottom bouncer and nightcrawler harness. Work those depth changes, especially at dawn and dusk when walleye feed aggressively. One local tip: on windy days, focus on points and shorelines where the wind's blowing in. Walleye often stack up there to ambush baitfish.

Walleye

About the Scott Van

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 20

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 55

Get ready for an action-packed day on the water with Captain Scott Van Liere as your guide. We'll hit the lakes bright and early, setting out at 6 AM for 8 full hours of prime fishing. Our route takes us through the Spring Creek–Cow Creek area, across the expansive Lake Oahe, and down to the bustling Lake Sharpe. We'll also swing by some lesser-known spots that only locals know about. Whether you're after bass, catfish, or walleye, we've got you covered. Captain Scott's years of experience on these waters mean you'll benefit from expert techniques and insider knowledge. We'll mix it up with trolling, jigging, and casting to maximize your chances of a great catch. Remember to bring your South Dakota fishing license, some grub, and drinks for the day. We're cool with responsible drinking on board too. Just keep in mind that bookings are non-refundable, so choose your date wisely. With Captain Scott at the helm, you're in for a day of serious fishing and hopefully, plenty of fish tales to take home.
Scott Van Liere Guide Service

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Finest Pierre SD Fishing Trips

Ready to reel in your best catch yet? Book your unforgettable fishing adventure today with Scott Van Liere Guide Service in Pierre, South Dakota—where every trip promises excitement, expert guidance, and memories that last a lifetime!

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