Half Day Family Pierre SD Walleye Bass Trip
Private Trip
River Fishing
Fourhour family walleye and bass fishing on Lake OaheAll gear, bait, snacks, and fish cleaning services includedAccommodates up to three guests with flexible afternoon start times
Looking for a fishing adventure that works for the whole crew? This afternoon guided trip out of Pierre puts you right in the heart of some of South Dakota's best walleye and smallmouth bass waters. We're talking Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe – two premier fisheries that consistently produce quality fish and memorable family moments. Starting at 1:00 PM (though we can work with your schedule), these four-hour sessions are designed specifically with families and kids in mind. No need to stress about gear or experience level – we've got everything covered, from rods and tackle to snacks and cold water. Plus, we'll clean and bag your catch so you can focus on what matters most: making memories on the water.
This isn't your typical rush-around-and-cast fishing trip. We keep things relaxed and educational, perfect for introducing kids to angling or helping seasoned family anglers fine-tune their techniques. Operating within 30 miles of Pierre gives us access to some seriously productive water, and we'll position ourselves where the fish are actively feeding. The afternoon timing works great for families – no early morning wake-up calls, and the fish are often more cooperative as the day progresses. We provide comfortable seating, shade when needed, and plenty of patience for those learning moments that make family fishing special. Transportation is included, so you can leave the logistics to us and just show up ready to fish.
We'll be using a mix of proven walleye and bass techniques depending on current conditions and what the fish are telling us. For walleye, expect to work jigs tipped with live bait or soft plastics along structure and drop-offs where these fish love to hang out. We might also pull spinner rigs or work crankbaits if the fish are suspended or relating to specific depth ranges. When targeting smallmouth bass, we'll focus on rocky areas, points, and current breaks using jigs, tubes, or small crankbaits. All tackle is provided and sized appropriately for the conditions – we use quality gear that can handle these fish but won't overwhelm younger anglers. The key is reading the water and adjusting our approach, which is part of what makes each trip a learning experience.
Walleye are the crown jewel of these waters, and for good reason. These golden beauties typically run 14-20 inches in Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe, with plenty of keeper-sized fish and the occasional trophy pushing 25+ inches. Walleye are most active during low-light periods, making our afternoon start time perfect as we fish into the evening bite. They're structure-oriented fish that relate to rocky points, submerged humps, and current areas. What makes walleye special is their incredible table fare – they're hands-down one of the best eating freshwater fish you'll find. Kids love catching them because they fight hard but aren't too aggressive, making for manageable battles that build confidence.
Smallmouth bass bring a completely different energy to the trip. These bronze fighters are pound-for-pound some of the strongest freshwater fish in South Dakota, known for their acrobatic jumps and determined runs. In these waters, smallies typically range from 12-16 inches, with larger specimens always a possibility. They love rocky structure, current breaks, and drop-offs where they ambush baitfish. Spring through fall offers excellent smallmouth action, with fish being most aggressive during warmer months. What anglers love about smallmouth is their attitude – they hit hard, fight harder, and never give up. For families, they provide that excitement factor that keeps everyone engaged and talking about the trip long after it's over.
This top-rated family fishing experience combines quality waters, proven techniques, and a relaxed atmosphere that works for everyone from first-time anglers to experienced family fishermen. With gear, bait, transportation, and fish cleaning all included, you can focus entirely on enjoying time together on the water. The three-person capacity keeps things intimate and allows for personalized instruction, though we can accommodate a fourth guest if needed. Just remember to grab your South Dakota fishing licenses before the trip – that's the one thing we can't provide. These afternoon slots fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so don't wait too long to secure your family's spot on Lake Oahe or Lake Sharpe. Book now and get ready for an afternoon of quality fishing and even better family memories.
Cast off aboard our 2022 21-foot Ranger 621, the perfect fishing platform for your Pierre walleye adventure. This sleek boat cuts through Missouri River waters with ease, thanks to its powerful 350 Mercury Verado engine that gets you to the hottest fishing spots on Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe in no time. Built for comfort and performance, she handles up to 3 anglers with room for one more if needed. The onboard fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating those trophy walleye and feisty smallmouth bass, while GPS navigation ensures we hit all the productive waters within 30 miles of Pierre. An icebox keeps your drinks cold and your catch fresh during those productive afternoon sessions. Whether you're teaching the kids to fish or looking to land your personal best, this professionally rigged boat delivers the stable, spacious platform you need for a successful day on South Dakota's premier fishing waters.
Micropterus DolomieuSmallmouth bass are bronze fighters that average 12-16 inches in our Missouri River system. They love rocky areas, current breaks, and fallen timber where they ambush crayfish and minnows. Spring and fall bring the best action when they're active in 6-15 feet of water. What guests love most is the fight - pound for pound, nothing hits harder or jumps higher than a smallmouth. They're also great table fare with firm, sweet meat. The key around Pierre is matching your bait to what they're eating. In summer, throw a tube jig that looks like a crayfish near rocky banks. Work it slow with little hops off bottom. When they hit, hang on - these fish will test your drag and give you stories worth telling back home.
Sander VitreusWalleye are the golden-colored prize of Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe, averaging 14-18 inches with those distinctive marble eyes that help them hunt in low light. They stick to rocky bottoms and drop-offs during the day, then move shallow to feed at dusk and dawn. Spring through fall offers great action, but evening bites are legendary. What makes walleye special isn't just the fight - they're hands down the best eating fish in these waters. Mild, flaky white meat that tastes like butter. My go-to tip: when you're fishing structure in 12-20 feet, slow your presentation way down. A jig and minnow dragged along bottom at snail's pace triggers more strikes than anything fancy. These fish reward patience.
Pierre, SD