Top-Rated Pierre SD Fishing Trip | Lake Adventure

Full-Day Pierre Lakes Fishing: Bass, Cats & 'Eyes

Ready to hit the water for some of the best fishing Pierre, SD has to offer? Hop aboard with Captain Scott Van Liere for a full day of chasing bass, catfish, and walleye across the legendary waters of Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe. This private trip is tailored for three guests, giving you plenty of elbow room to cast and reel in the big ones. From the crack of dawn 'til sunset, we'll be working prime spots that only the locals know about. Whether you're after hard-fighting smallies, chunky cats, or those sought-after 'eyes, we've got you covered.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll kick things off at first light, when the fish are most active and the lakes are calm. Our day starts on the Spring Creek–Cow Creek stretch, known for its mix of structure and open water that holds a variety of species. As the sun climbs, we'll move to some of Lake Oahe's top fishing spots – think submerged timber, rocky points, and deep channels where the big ones lurk. After lunch, we'll hit Lake Sharpe's lively flats and hidden channels that most tourists never find. This isn't your average "cast and hope" trip; we use refined techniques honed over years of guiding to put you on fish all day long.

Techniques That Land Lunkers

Forget about just sitting around with a bobber – we're here to catch fish! We'll cycle through proven methods like trolling crankbaits for aggressive walleye, jigging soft plastics in the timber for bass, and presenting cut bait for those monster catfish. I'll show you how to read your electronics, identify promising structure, and present your bait just right. We might even break out some local "secret weapons" if the bite gets tough. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques; I'll walk you through everything step-by-step. By the end of the day, you'll be working those rods like a pro.

What Anglers Are Saying

"Great fishing, great conversations, great time fishing with my son. Thanks to Scott for his great guide service!" - Pat

Species You'll Want to Hook

Blue Catfish: These whiskered giants are the heavyweights of our lakes. Blue cats in Lake Oahe can top 50 pounds, with some real monsters pushing 80+. They love deep channels and will put up a fight that'll make your arms ache. We target these bruisers year-round, but summer and early fall are prime time when they're actively feeding. There's nothing quite like the bend in your rod when a big blue decides to take your bait.

Walleye: Ah, the marble-eye – South Dakota's pride and joy. Lake Oahe is world-renowned for its walleye fishing, and for good reason. These tasty predators average 2-3 pounds, but 5-8 pounders aren't uncommon. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but we can find keeper 'eyes all year long if you know where to look. They're notorious for their light bite, so stay alert! When we dial in the bite, doubles and even triples aren't out of the question.

Smallmouth Bass: Don't let the name fool you – there's nothing small about the fight these bronze backs put up. Lake Sharpe, in particular, is a smallmouth haven. These acrobatic fish love rocky areas and will smash topwater lures in the summer months. Expect to catch plenty in the 2-3 pound range, with a real chance at a 4+ pound trophy. The fall bite can be insane, with schools of big smallies feeding aggressively before winter sets in.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, the fish are out there waiting – all you need to do is get on the water. This full-day trip with Scott Van Liere Guide Service gives you the best shot at a cooler full of fish and memories that'll last a lifetime. Remember to grab your South Dakota fishing license, pack a lunch, and bring your favorite beverages (yeah, we're cool with responsible drinking on board). Just don't wait too long to book, especially if you're after those prized walleye – the best dates fill up fast. Give us a call, and let's get your next great fishing story started on the lakes of Pierre, SD!