Lake Oahe is best known for walleye, but it’s a full multi-species fishery: one of the region’s most underrated smallmouth bass populations, northern pike big enough to break nets, and plenty of catfish that eat surprisingly well. On a good day, the walleye limit is in the box by noon — then the fun starts.
Everybody comes to Lake Oahe for the walleye, and fair enough — that’s the table fare everyone wants. But the anglers who fish here regularly know the reservoir holds a second act that most visitors never see. Here’s what else is swimming under the boat.
How good is the smallmouth bass fishing on Lake Oahe?
In Wade’s words, the smallmouth fishery is “probably one of the best unknown secrets of this whole reservoir.” The rocky structure, the miles of undeveloped shoreline, and the light fishing pressure add up to strong, scrappy fish that most out-of-state anglers don’t even know are here. It’s the perfect second-half-of-the-day target: once the walleye are in the box, you switch over and the smallmouth keep the rods bent.
How big do the northern pike get?
Big enough that landing them is the problem. Wade’s clients have hooked northerns they simply couldn’t get in the net — fish you see boat-side, fight, and lose because there’s just too much of them. If you want a shot at a genuine trophy pike without flying to Canada, this reservoir quietly offers it. Trolling for northerns is a common afternoon switch after a morning of walleye fishing.
Are the catfish worth keeping?
Don’t laugh — yes. There are a lot of catfish in Lake Oahe, and as Wade puts it, they’re “not bad table fare at all.” For groups that want steady action and a cooler full of fillets, an hour on the cats can round out the day nicely, especially for kids who just want something pulling on the line.
How does a multi-species day actually work?
Walleye first — that’s the priority and the eating fish. On a good day the boat has its walleye by midday, and then the day opens up: smallmouth on the rocks, trolling for northern, or dropping on catfish. It’s not a separate trip or an upcharge; it’s just how a full day on the guide service plays out when the morning bite cooperates. Every fish that comes home still gets cleaned, bagged, and Cryovac-packed.
Do you need different gear for the other species?
Not on a guided trip — the boat carries what each species calls for, from live bait rigs to crankbaits to the livescope. Bring the same short list you’d bring for walleye (license, snacks, layers — the full packing list is here) and the switching is handled for you.
Key takeaways
- Smallmouth bass are Lake Oahe’s best-kept secret — strong fish, light pressure.
- Northern pike run to true trophy size — some too big for the net.
- Catfish are plentiful and legitimately good eating.
- On a good day: walleye limit by noon, bonus species after — all in one trip.
- No extra gear needed — the boat is rigged for every switch.
Frequently asked questions
What fish are in Lake Oahe besides walleye?
Smallmouth bass, northern pike, and catfish are the main bonus species on guided trips, and all three can produce memorable fish.
Can we target smallmouth or pike on a guided trip?
Yes — most days start with walleye, and once the limit is in the box the boat switches to smallmouth, northern, or catfish depending on what the group wants.
Is Lake Oahe good for trophy pike?
Yes. Clients regularly hook oversized northerns, including fish too big to land. It’s one of the more underrated trophy pike waters in the region.
Come for the walleye. Stay for everything else.
Call or text Wade — 605-848-0809Keep planning: what a day looks like on the guide service, where the walleye move by season, and rates & booking.