Current Conditions, Hot Spots & Expert Tips for Fishing Lake Oahe

Scott Van Liere Guide Service sets the pace for guided fishing in Pierre, SD enthusiasts who want a smooth, top-notch day on the water. Whether you are chasing trophy sizes or simply looking to fill the cooler, Captain Scott’s expertise and warm Midwestern hospitality make every outing feel both welcoming and productive. With local knowledge that only years on the Missouri River system can build, he has crafted an operation that blends professionalism with laid-back fun. For many anglers, Lake Oahe fishing is the headliner, and Scott knows every productive bend from the Spring Creek–Cow Creek area all the way north toward Pollock. Still, variety is part of the charm: Lake Sharpe’s current-swept flats call out for active jigging, and hidden stretches of the Missouri produce steady action for those who don’t mind wandering off the beaten path. Expect plenty of bites from walleye, fat channel cats, and bronzeback smallmouth, depending on the season. Fans of bass fishing Pierre SD style will appreciate Scott’s knack for locating rocky points and shallow shelves where smallmouth stack up. If you prefer prowling for whiskered giants or filling a limit of dinner-ready marble-eyes, he has you covered there too. Proven trolling spreads, precise vertical jigging, and finesse rigs are all part of the playbook—adapted in real time to wind, weather, and bite windows. Your ride for the day is a 22-foot Skeeter fiberglass boat, launched new in 2020 and powered by twin Yamaha engines capable of a swift 55-knot cruise. Spacious casting decks allow up to six guests to fish without crowding, while modern electronics, ample rod storage, and USCG-approved safety gear provide confidence and comfort. In short, you’ll travel quickly, fish effectively, and stay safe no matter the conditions. All trips are fully outfitted with premium tackle, but please remember a valid South Dakota fishing license. Pack a lunch, load up your favorite drinks, and feel free to bring along a few cold ones—responsible alcohol consumption is welcome. Dress for rapidly changing Great Plains weather, and Scott will supply the rest, from bait to ice. Ready for the highlight of your angling calendar? Now is the perfect moment to book walleye fishing trip Lake Oahe SD residents and visiting anglers rave about. Choose your dates, gather your crew, and let Captain Scott Van Liere deliver the kind of day that keeps rods bent and memories fresh long after the last fish hits the net.

EPSG:4269

Lake Oahe near Pierre, South Dakota, is producing solid results across multiple species, with favorable conditions for anglers this week. Water temperatures are holding in the mid-60s, and clarity is generally good, especially in the Spring Creek and Cow Creek areas.

Walleye: The bite has been steady, especially in 8–20 feet of water. Anglers are having success using bottom bouncers with spinners and crawlers, as well as slow-death rigs tipped with minnows. Trolling crankbaits along channel edges and submerged structure has also been productive, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. If you're planning to book a walleye fishing trip Lake Oahe SD, now’s a great time—fish are active and feeding.

Bass: Smallmouth bass are showing up in rocky areas and shallow flats around 6–12 feet. Tube jigs, ned rigs, and drop shots have all been effective. For those interested in bass fishing Pierre SD, the action is picking up with warmer temps pushing fish closer to shore.

Catfish: Channel cats are hitting cut bait and stink bait near current seams and deeper holes. Shore anglers and boaters alike are finding success, especially later in the day.

General Notes: Expect light to moderate winds in the afternoons, so get your lines in early. The Spring Creek–Cow Creek stretch and the northern bays are holding fish. Boat ramps are in good condition, and traffic has been moderate.

Reminder: All anglers must carry a valid South Dakota fishing license. Pack a lunch, bring plenty of drinks, and yes—responsible alcohol use is allowed on board. For a smooth, productive day, consider a guided fishing Pierre SD charter with local expert Captain Scott Van Liere. With years of experience and deep local knowledge, he’ll help you locate and land fish efficiently and comfortably.

Tight lines and good luck out there! Let me know if you’d like weekly updates or custom reports by species or technique.

Two people fishing for two big fish in Pierre

4 people with 5 big fish caught while fishing in Pierre

2 big fish caught during fishing trip in Pierre

A single angler fishing in Pierre, South Dakota

Three Walleye fish caught in South Dakota

Anglers with 5 crappie fish caught in Pierre

4 big fish caught in Pierre, South Dakota while fishing

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!

Scott Van Liere Guide Service is a premier fishing charter based in Pierre, SD, offering unforgettable guided fishing experiences on the legendary Lake Oahe and surrounding waters. With decades of on-the-water expertise, Captain Scott Van Liere provides a professional, personalized approach to every outing, ensuring anglers of all skill levels enjoy a productive and enjoyable time on the water. Specializing in walleye fishing, the guide service focuses on top techniques and seasonal patterns to help guests consistently hook into quality fish while soaking in the natural beauty of South Dakota’s premier fishing destinations. Whether you're planning your first trip or are a seasoned angler wondering where to fish in Pierre South Dakota, Scott Van Liere Guide Service has you covered. Known for delivering some of the best guided fishing Pierre SD has to offer, Scott tailors each trip to match conditions and client goals, whether it’s a casual day with family or a trophy hunt with serious anglers. Book your walleye fishing trip Lake Oahe SD and discover why so many return year after year for the experience, the scenery, and the exceptional catch rates.

Find clear answers to all your fishing charter questions with Scott Van Liere Guide Service in Pierre, South Dakota—ensuring your trip details and concerns are fully addressed for a seamless angling experience.

Captain Scott Van Liere is the steady hand behind the most trusted guided fishing Pierre SD experiences. Raised on the Missouri River system, he logged his first Walleye before most kids mastered a bicycle, then spent decades refining techniques that fit the river’s shifting currents and weather quirks. Today, he balances a degree in wildlife management with countless hours on the water, offering guests a deep understanding of fish behavior, seasonal transitions, and conservation-minded practices that protect these resources for future anglers. Scott’s daily office ranges from the Spring Creek–Cow Creek corridor up through the sprawling main basin of Lake Oahe and down into the flow-regulated waters of Lake Sharpe. His notebooks read like a living field guide—water temps, forage trends, and subtle humps or breaks that produce fish year after year. While Lake Oahe fishing often grabs headlines for its tournament-class Walleye, Scott shares equal enthusiasm for tracking late-summer Catfish in quiet backwaters or pinpointing October smallmouth along sun-warmed rock piles. Each decision, from lure color to trolling pass, reflects firsthand observation rather than guesswork. Anglers interested in bass fishing Pierre SD style quickly see why Scott’s reputation stretches beyond the state line. He excels at reading structure, wind, and light to position clients on aggressive smallmouth within casting range, then switches gears to vertical-jig marble-eyes during midday lulls. His approach remains flexible: finesse rigs when the bite turns finicky, crankbaits when a reaction strike is the ticket, and bottom-bouncers when Walleye hug the breaks. Clear communication on technique keeps newcomers relaxed and seasoned anglers engaged. The platform for these outings is a 22-foot Skeeter fiberglass boat launched in 2020, powered by twin Yamaha engines that deliver a reliable 55-knot cruise. Wide, uncluttered casting decks accommodate up to six guests, while GPS-linked electronics, rod lockers, and USCG-approved safety gear add confidence in all conditions. Whether the day calls for long runs up the reservoir or precise drifts along submerged structure, the craft’s stability and layout allow Scott to focus on the finer details of presentation while guests enjoy a comfortable, efficient ride.

Check out our fishing spots! The red zone marks prime fishing areas, while the pins show where we meet guests. Locations may vary by season and conditions. Let’s go fishing!

Expert Fishing Guide in Pierre SD for Walleye & Bass on Lakes & Creeks

Walleye Fishing

Things to Do

Fishing License

South Dakota Fishing License Information

Top Things to Do in Pierre South Dakota 

Walleye Fishing Trips on Lake Oahe

<h3>What types of fishing trips does Scott Van Liere Guide Service offer?</h3>Scott Van Liere Guide Service offers full-day guided fishing charters in Pierre, SD, targeting Walleye, Bass, and Catfish. Trips explore prime locations including Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and the Spring Creek–Cow Creek area, with a mix of trolling, jigging, and casting techniques. <h3>How much does a fishing charter in Pierre SD cost?</h3>Pricing varies by group size and trip duration. Full-day trips for 1–3 anglers start at a competitive flat rate, with the option to add more guests for an additional fee. For the latest rates, visit our Rates page or contact us directly. <h3>What’s included in a Pierre SD fishing charter?</h3>Each fishing trip includes expert guidance from Captain Scott Van Liere, all tackle and bait, modern electronics, and a 22-foot fiberglass boat equipped with twin Yamaha engines. USCG-approved safety gear and fuel are also included in the rate. <h3>What should I bring on my Lake Oahe fishing trip?</h3>Guests should bring a valid South Dakota fishing license, a packed lunch, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and a cooler for your catch. Responsible alcohol is allowed on board. We’ll take care of the fishing gear and expertise! <h3>When is the best time to go fishing in Pierre SD?</h3>Fishing in Pierre SD is productive from spring through fall. May through July is ideal for Walleye on Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe. Bass and Catfish are most active during the warmer months. Book early to reserve peak fishing windows. <h3>How many people can join a fishing trip?</h3>Our fishing charters can accommodate up to six guests comfortably. The boat is spacious with ample casting room, making it ideal for families, friends, or small groups looking to enjoy South Dakota’s top fishing spots. <h3>Where do Pierre SD fishing charters launch from?</h3>Most trips launch from the Spring Creek or Cow Creek areas, depending on the bite and water conditions. Exact locations may vary to ensure the best possible fishing experience each day. <h3>Are fishing charters in Pierre SD kid-friendly?</h3>Absolutely! Scott Van Liere Guide Service welcomes young anglers and creates a safe, educational, and fun environment for families. Kids love catching Walleye and learning the basics with personalized instruction from the captain. <h3>What is the cancellation policy?</h3>All bookings are non-refundable, so be sure to confirm your trip details before purchasing. In the rare case of unsafe weather, we’ll do our best to reschedule or offer a credit for a future outing.

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