7 Secrets Professional Catfish Anglers Will Never Tell You
- inthaloop1
- Apr 4, 2023
- 4 min read
Angling is a popular pastime the world over, but few anglers have the skill or experience to catch catfish. These fish are notoriously difficult to hook, and even more difficult to land. But for those who have mastered the art of catfishing, the rewards are great.
If you’re looking to up your catfishing game, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re going to share 7 secrets that professional catfish anglers will never tell you. These secrets will give you the edge you need to start landing the big ones.
1. Use the right bait:
Catfish are not picky eaters, but they do have preferences. Use bait that is native to the water you’re fishing in to give yourself the best chance of success. Some popular catfish baits include worms, chicken livers, and stink baits.
Other possible baits for catfish include shrimp, cheese, hot dogs, and even small pieces of bacon or sausage. Some fishermen swear by using live bait, such as minnows or small bluegill, while others prefer using cut bait, such as small pieces of fish or squid. It’s also important to consider the size and type of hook you’re using, as well as the weight of your line and the depth you’re fishing at. Overall, catfish can be caught using a variety of baits and techniques, so it’s worth experimenting to find what works best for you.
2. Fish at night:
Catfish are nocturnal creatures and are more active at night. Fishing during the day might yield some results, but your chances of catching a big catfish increase when you fish at night.
This is because catfish become more aggressive and come out of their hiding spots to feed under the cover of darkness. They are also less likely to be spooked by the presence of humans or other potential predators during night fishing.
Be patient and give the catfish time to fully take the bait before setting the hook. Keep a firm grip on the fishing rod and reel in slowly and steadily to avoid losing the fish. With these tips, you can increase your chances of catching a big catfish during your next nighttime fishing trip!
3. Know your water:
Catfish are found in all types of water, but they prefer slow-moving, deep water with plenty of cover such as rocks, logs, and holes. Look for these spots when fishing for catfish.
Catfish are also known to be bottom feeders, so it's important to keep your bait near the bottom of the water when fishing for them. Popular baits for catfish include worms, chicken liver, stink bait, and shrimp. It's also a good idea to use a strong fishing line and a heavy weight to keep your bait in place.
When you feel a bite, it's important to give the catfish time to fully take the bait before setting the hook. Catfish have tough mouths, so you'll need to set the hook with a firm, upward motion. Once you've hooked a catfish, be prepared for a strong fight. They can be quite large and put up a good fight, so be patient and wear them down before trying to reel them in.
4. Use the right gear:
Catfish can grow to be very large, so make sure you have the right gear to handle them. A heavy-duty rod and reel, strong line, and large hooks are essential for catfish angling.
In addition, you may also want to consider using slip sinkers to keep your bait on the bottom and a landing net to safely handle and release the fish.
Keep in mind that catfish tend to be most active during the evening and nighttime hours, so plan your fishing trip accordingly. Finally, make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations in your area, including any size or bag limits, before heading out to fish.
5. Be patient:
Catfish are notoriously slow to bite, so you need to be patient. Leave your bait in the water for at least 30 minutes before giving up on a spot. Keep your line tight and be ready for a sudden tug.
6. Use scent:
Catfish have an excellent sense of smell, so using scented baits can give you an edge. Some anglers swear by using garlic or anise oil to enhance the scent of their bait.
Other popular scented baits for catfish include chicken liver, shrimp, and cheese. However, it's important to note that some scents may work better in certain bodies of water or for certain species of catfish. Experimenting with different scented baits can help you figure out what works best for the particular fishing conditions you're facing. Additionally, some anglers also use chumming to attract catfish to their fishing location, releasing chunks of bait into the water to create a scent trail.
7. Practice catch and release:
Catfish are important players in the food chain and are a valuable natural resource. Only keep what you need and release the rest to help maintain healthy populations for future generations to enjoy.
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