Advice for Catfish Fishers - 5 Simple Tips To A Successful Trip

Catfish are one of the most diverse species of fish on the planet! They range in size at maturity from 1/2 inch to giants of 8 feet. They thrive all over the world, in both fresh and salt water. Most catfish live near the bottom of rivers and lakes, but some live in the open ocean. They are boney fish that tend to sink rather than float. Named for the thin, whisker-like tactile organ (barbel) near their mouths, the catfish's "whiskers" contain its tastebuds.

Catfish are a source of food for cultures all over the world, though people differ as to their taste and appeal. Because adult catfish do not have scales, they are not considered Kosher in Jewish culture. In the United States, the channel and blue catfish are a favorite food.

Catching catfish is different from catching many other species of fish. Effective methods differ depending on the type of waters fished, and different baits are used to catch different targets. Here are some simple, but proven, methods used to catch the humble catfish.

Rigging Your Line for Catfish

Depending on the bait, you should loop the bait holder or hook from your line at the preferred distance, from 18-24". Because you don't want your bait to move, you should use a weight to keep the bait still.

You can also use a slipweight to keep the bait still. For slipweight, the weight itself is not as important as long as it slides in the line. The catfish won't be able to feel the weight until they've been hooked.

The multi-bait technique will let you catch several catfish at the same time. To do this, attach a three-way swivel on your line. It will draw more strikes as you hook your catfish.

Best Bait for Catfish

Experience catfishers use chicken livers or medium dead shrimp. Remember that catfish are more attracted to bait that doesn't move. If you use shrimp, you should remove the tail and shell. The chicken liver is a bit more difficult because you have to use something to tie it to the like (one example is a piece of pantyhose). When using chicken liver, wrap a piece about the size of a quarter and wrap it in the piece of pantyhose. Leave a bit of the material at the end and attach it to the treble hook. Other good bait include dough bait, catfish paste, minnows or bloodworms, snails, and small fish. The best bait to use to catch catfish is natural. You won't have much luck with lures.

Chum for Shark - and Catfish!

Experienced catfishers have good results using chum. You'll find many different recipes for catfish chum on the internet. Basically, you prepare balls or bars of chum and then throw them into the area where you think you'll find the catfish. Use a hook to catch the fish, attaching the same chum mixture for bait. Remember to clean the water of the chum after you've finished.

Tackling with a Rod and Reel

This is the easiest way to catch catfish, but it still requires the same types of bait we've discussed. Use 6-foot long tackle with a spinning reel equipped with heavier line that will bear the weight and fight of the lively catfish. You don't have to spend a lot of money on your line. Just make sure it's heavy enough for catfish.

What Do You do With It when You Catch a Catfish

Once you've landed your catfish, make sure you grip it securely and remove the hook with pliers. Some catfish have poisonous fins that can cause a bit of damage. Grip it by sliding your hand from its tail to the belly, placing your fingers on one side and your thumb on the other. Be careful not to hurt yourself! The catfish will enjoy knowing it has caused some damage by its sacrifice!