Fishing for Catfish

Before I tell you how to catch catfish, I’d like to relate this true story. On July 1st, 2005, a Mekong giant catfish was netted by researchers who were identifying and studying fresh water fish species in all parts of the world. The fish weighed in at 646 pounds and was the size of a grizzly bear. It is the world’s record holding freshwater fish. The Mekong giant catfish is an endangered species and I’m not sure how researchers justified netting this granddaddy.

The fish was caught in Thailand’s Mekong River, which is home to a wide variety of giant fish species. The people of a remote village cleaned and ate the record holding fish. Giant fish species provide a source of protein for 73 million people that make their home along the river.

Though most catfish are a great deal smaller than the record holding fish, fishermen seek out catfish in rivers, lakes and streams world wide. If you are looking for a fish that puts up a good fight, study and learn the habits of catfish in your area.

Catfish migrate as the seasons change. When you know that the fish are spawning, take your fishing gear and head out to your favorite fishing hole. Catfish spawn near rocky structures and in contours of the waterbed. Use a topographical map that shows hidden structures and contours to know where to cast. These spots are where you will catch the big cats.

Catfish are scavengers, so dead bait works best. Any type of liver or poultry giblets will attract catfish, as will nightcrawlers, shad and shrimp. Use split shot sinkers and a bobber (float) to display baits at various depths.

Once you find a catfish spawning ground, return to it over the course of the next month to six weeks. Different species of catfish spawn at different times, so you have a good opportunity to catch catfish over the next few weeks.

Remember, the warmer the water, the closer to the surface the catfish will lurk. This is especially true in dirty or murky water. When water is clear, catfish tend to stay in the depths where they feel safe.