What makes good catfish bait?

1. Natural Bait: Live or cut baits like worms, minnows, shad, chicken livers, and shrimp, are effective due to their natural scent and taste.

2. Commercial Baits: Specially formulated catfish baits may contain fish oils, blood, cheese, and other ingredients to attract catfish.

Texture:

1. Soft and Chewy: Catfish prefer baits with soft and chewy textures that mimic their natural prey.

2. Dough or Paste: Catfish baits in the form of dough or paste, made from cornmeal, wheat flour, or bread, can be molded onto hooks.

Color:

1. Bright and Contrasting: Catfish are more attracted to bright and contrasting colors, such as red, yellow, and white, against the natural surroundings.

Scent Dispersal:

1. Slow-Release Scents: Catfish baits that release scent and flavor slowly create a scent trail that attracts catfish from a distance.

Stickiness:

1. Moderate Stickiness: Catfish baits should be sticky enough to stay on the hook but not too sticky to prevent the hook from penetrating.

Size:

1. Appropriate Size for Catfish: The bait's size should match the size of the catfish you are targeting. Larger catfish tend to prefer larger baits, while smaller catfish feed on smaller baits.

Presentation:

1. Freshness: Ensure that the bait is fresh and not spoiled, as catfish are sensitive to smells and tastes.

2. Placement: Place the bait in areas with cover, such as rocks, logs, or weed beds, where catfish typically hide and hunt for food.

Remember, while specific baits can be effective, personal experience, experimenting, and adapting to local conditions play a significant role in successful catfish baiting.