When it comes to river fishing, few things can compare to the thrill of hooking a feisty catfish. Some catfish are large enough to break records and feed an entire family, but for fishermen, the feeling of hooking a fighting monster is a thrill like nothing else. There is effort and time required for reeling in one of these strong fish, but it is well worth it because the meat has a savory flavor which can be prepared in a variety of different ways, and is quite tasty when fried in a delicious cornmeal batter, accompanied by some hush puppies and macaroni and cheese.
The things you will need to catch a catfish include a rod and reel, strong fishing line, treble hooks, nylon hose, stink bate (chicken livers work well), pail with a lid, pocket knife, short rope and a stringer. Because catfish come in a variety of different sizes, it is very important to have a sturdy rod and reel when fishing for them. There will be bending and stress on the rod, so it is important to pick the right test strength of fishing line, most fishermen choose a 100-lb. test because it is very strong and will withstand the extra pressure when you hook a big catfish.
When you get to your favorite fishing hole; spray your hands down with fish attracting spray before you handle any of the bait. Catfish have a strong sense of smell and anything reeking of alcohol, cigarette smoke or humans will be a strong deterrent to them. Applying a good coating of scent cover before stringing up the bait will increase your chances of attracting the big one, so remember to pack some!
Forget about using fishing lures, because catfish are almost blind and will rely on smells, so the stinkier your bait is, the better it will lure them in. If you want to land a giant catfish, use some raw chicken livers or purchase some specialty stink bait from a bait shop. Keeping bait on the hook is going to be hard, if not impossible, so wrap it tightly and shove it into a woman’s nylon stocking and then tie it off, this way you can put it on the hook without it falling off so easily.
Catfish tend to stay close to the banks and this is because the water is shaded and cooler, which is what they like. The ideal scenario in which to catch a BIG catfish would be to use a boat and to cast into the shoreline, but if you are not able to use a boat, stand on the bank and cast your line just a bit downstream. Try to pick a shady location about 3-5 feet from the edge of the water, and you will probably have some good luck!
When you have finished with fishing for the day, it is very important to have a stringer and a pail with lid. You don’t want to take the chance of losing your precious catch! So, by following a few tips mentioned in this article you can grab a pole, some stink bait and venture out knowing it’s only a matter of time before you land a monster catfish, and be prepared for a fight, because these rascals do not give up easily!
