Cut Bait, such as strips of skipjack or cut up creek chubs, bring in the big cats. When using circle hooks, the hook point should not be buried in the bait. Live bait fish are another good choice. These catfish are big enough to take bait fish as large as a man’s hand. The bait fish should be hooked through the back, allowing them to swim freely.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
use the Rod, Not the Reel. to Bring in Fish
Once a big cat is on the hook, the angler should use the powerful rod to bring it in. An up and down motion, pulling in the fish and then reeling in slack on the way down, keeps the stress on the rod and not on the reel. Flathead catfish make a run when they see the boat, and the angler may have to let out a bit of line and then play the fish in again.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Baiting a hole for catfish
A good way to get the catfish biting is to bait a hole or an area that you want to fish. To do this you will need to go to a feed store and buy some grain to soak. Milo, horse and mule feed, or even oats are good choices. Get a five gallon bucket with a good tight lid. Now pour the grain in the bucket and run water in the bucket until the grain is covered with water. Put the lid on real tight and let the grain soak for several days until it has soured. (Check the grain after the first 24 hours to make sure you still have plenty of water in the bucket as the grain needs to stay good and moist to sour). After the grain has soaked for three to four days, it's ready to be used.
Take a coffee can, dip out a can full of the grain and throw it out into the area you are going to fish. Take care as it only takes a couple of cans to attract the catfish. Sometimes it may take an hour or so to draw the catfish in. You can do this in several places and move from one place to another as the fishing slows in one place.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Must Know Tips for Every Angler
Timing is everything. Go out and fish in the early mornings and evenings. That's when catfish are looking for food, like you're bait. At those times, they come into the shallows where they're easier to catch. You can always catch cats at any time of the day, but it takes lots more skill.
- Go where the cats are. If you are fishing in a stream, look for a deep spot. Catfish tend to hang out along the bottom and look for food there. If you are fishing near a river, try casting your line right around where the river spills into the creek. This is where you'll find lots of those river cats looking for food.
- Catching cats in a river. The best place to catch catfish in a river is just upstream from some kind of obstruction, like rocks or log jams. This is an area where they'll be creeping around on the bottom looking for food, moving more slowly, and it's more likely that they'll find your lure. If you're going to fish on the open river, you can catch cats this way too, but it's better if there's been a recent rain.
- Use live baits. Catfish prefer live baits, and especially stuff that is stinky. They have serious noses on them, and they love smelly stuff like shrimp, guts, other fish, bits of tuna, hot dogs, etc.
- Switch up your bait. Just like human beings, catfish get sick of eating the same old thing all the time. If you rotate your bait every now and then and experiment with new things, you'll get lots more bites. They aren't picky eaters, they'll eat just about anything.
- The right hook. In general, if you want to catch bigger fish, you should use bigger hooks. For catfish, the best hooks to use are 3/0 or 4/0. A little experimenting will give you a better idea for yourself. Compared with other kinds of fish, it's pretty easy to catch catfish with smaller hooks, so I would go small to begin with. You'll catch some big fish with small hooks, but if the hooks are too big, you won't get any of the little ones.
- Chumming. This is a technique that will definitely get you more bites. Chum is little balls of prepared fish food that you can either buy at a shop or make yourself. All you do is throw the chum into the water and then fish like you regularly do. The chum will attract the cats and you can sit back and reel them in. It takes a bit of trial and error, because some spots are better for chumming than others.
- Go where the cats are. If you are fishing in a stream, look for a deep spot. Catfish tend to hang out along the bottom and look for food there. If you are fishing near a river, try casting your line right around where the river spills into the creek. This is where you'll find lots of those river cats looking for food.
- Catching cats in a river. The best place to catch catfish in a river is just upstream from some kind of obstruction, like rocks or log jams. This is an area where they'll be creeping around on the bottom looking for food, moving more slowly, and it's more likely that they'll find your lure. If you're going to fish on the open river, you can catch cats this way too, but it's better if there's been a recent rain.
- Use live baits. Catfish prefer live baits, and especially stuff that is stinky. They have serious noses on them, and they love smelly stuff like shrimp, guts, other fish, bits of tuna, hot dogs, etc.
- Switch up your bait. Just like human beings, catfish get sick of eating the same old thing all the time. If you rotate your bait every now and then and experiment with new things, you'll get lots more bites. They aren't picky eaters, they'll eat just about anything.
- The right hook. In general, if you want to catch bigger fish, you should use bigger hooks. For catfish, the best hooks to use are 3/0 or 4/0. A little experimenting will give you a better idea for yourself. Compared with other kinds of fish, it's pretty easy to catch catfish with smaller hooks, so I would go small to begin with. You'll catch some big fish with small hooks, but if the hooks are too big, you won't get any of the little ones.
- Chumming. This is a technique that will definitely get you more bites. Chum is little balls of prepared fish food that you can either buy at a shop or make yourself. All you do is throw the chum into the water and then fish like you regularly do. The chum will attract the cats and you can sit back and reel them in. It takes a bit of trial and error, because some spots are better for chumming than others.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
How To Clean Catfish
When fishing for food, many fishermen that catch catfish will hurriedly throw the fish back because they have a reputation as being hard to clean. However, that simply is not true when one knows what he or she is doing. And catfish have some of the tastiest fillets out of all freshwater fish. Here is a simple guide that will teach you how to clean catfish the right way as quickly and easily as possible to ensure you don’t release your dinner back into the lake ever again.
First of all, you will want a sharp fillet knife and possibly an anti-cutting glove that is made out of steel mesh or Kevlar. Make sure that you have a trash can to throw away the parts of the catfish that you don’t want or need and a large, clean workspace.
Many people mistake the barbs that the catfish have surrounding its mouth as a weapon for stinging, but this is not true. They are actually used by the catfish to find food.
Clean the catfish as soon as possible. You will find that its body is covered with skin, not scales like most fish. This requires some special steps in cleaning and filleting the fish. To begin, grasp the spine of the fish firmly and make a shallow incision all the way around its head with a sharp knife. You will find that the catfish’s skin is thicker the larger it is. Sometimes the skin is so thick because of the catfish’s size that you may have to lay it in a pot of boiling water for a bit to soften it up before making the incision.
When the initial cut is made, you can begin to peel off the skin. This is done by starting at the head where you have made the cut and pulling firmly but slowly back towards the tail. Many times, the tougher spots can be overcome by using a pair of pliers. Once all of the skin has been removed from the fish you can remove its head simply by cutting it off.
Once the head is off, you can begin gutting the catfish. This is done by making an incision in the underside of the belly from where the head was removed all of the way back. Reach in with your bare hands and remove all of the guts that you can grab.
Once this is completed, you can remove the fins and the tail, if you so desire, and rinse the catfish with clean water. If you split the catfish into two separate sections, it will be much easier to ensure that the catfish is thoroughly cleaned.
The catfish can now be cooked to your liking. Just a few of the ways to cook catfish include baking, batter-dipping, deep-fried, and pan-fried.
First of all, you will want a sharp fillet knife and possibly an anti-cutting glove that is made out of steel mesh or Kevlar. Make sure that you have a trash can to throw away the parts of the catfish that you don’t want or need and a large, clean workspace.
Many people mistake the barbs that the catfish have surrounding its mouth as a weapon for stinging, but this is not true. They are actually used by the catfish to find food.
Clean the catfish as soon as possible. You will find that its body is covered with skin, not scales like most fish. This requires some special steps in cleaning and filleting the fish. To begin, grasp the spine of the fish firmly and make a shallow incision all the way around its head with a sharp knife. You will find that the catfish’s skin is thicker the larger it is. Sometimes the skin is so thick because of the catfish’s size that you may have to lay it in a pot of boiling water for a bit to soften it up before making the incision.
When the initial cut is made, you can begin to peel off the skin. This is done by starting at the head where you have made the cut and pulling firmly but slowly back towards the tail. Many times, the tougher spots can be overcome by using a pair of pliers. Once all of the skin has been removed from the fish you can remove its head simply by cutting it off.
Once the head is off, you can begin gutting the catfish. This is done by making an incision in the underside of the belly from where the head was removed all of the way back. Reach in with your bare hands and remove all of the guts that you can grab.
Once this is completed, you can remove the fins and the tail, if you so desire, and rinse the catfish with clean water. If you split the catfish into two separate sections, it will be much easier to ensure that the catfish is thoroughly cleaned.
The catfish can now be cooked to your liking. Just a few of the ways to cook catfish include baking, batter-dipping, deep-fried, and pan-fried.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
How To Use Catfish Baits Properly
There is a huge variety of catfish baits. Catfish have no specific food preference, they eat nearly anything although they bite better on specific things. If you are up with NOT catching big catfish, are you sure that you’re utilizing appropriate bait?
Before acknowledging the kind of bait you will be using, the type of environment where you catch them should be considered. If you have an effective bait and immerse in the water but the area where you go fishing is not a good spot, the time you spent was useless.
This type of fish has no definite characteristic; however, they are fond of hiding. It is necessary to gain knowledge about the bodies of water where you will go fishing and discovering the areas where they usually keep themselves.
If you go catfishing, keep moving together with your rod and reels. If you detect a sneaking fish on the surface, grab and toss the freshly prepared shad head. Situate yourself in an area with a good current. Give a maximum of twenty minutes in a certain area. If you can’t catch any, then, it’s time for you to relocate.
If you are up for a catch, immobilize the bait. Try to minimize unnecessary movements, make sure that it is stable and steady. You can have a large catch if you have the appropriate tools and the ability and the efficiency to fish like pro.
One of the best occasions to do catfishing is when waters from the lake rise due to flood water. Catfish will rush through the freshly washed area and look for feed. Make use of the chopped bluefill and shad head in fresh preparation.
You can go catfishing anytime, however, it is recommended to go fishing late at night and early morning. What’s the difference? The circadian rhythm affects their location. At daytime, they rest in deeper portions of the water. When night starts to fall, they rise near the water surface for feeding. During rainy and cloudy days, expect a good catch. Due to elevations of water level, spring and early fall are the best season to fish for channel catfish. These are instances when catfish are highly active and catching them will often be very easy.
For game fishing, catfish would surely give you the fun and exercise you want. Try to work on different locations when fishing for catfish. There are different types of baits. Freshly prepared baits include cut shad, bluegill, perch, chicken livers, small frogs, night crawlers and many more. If you use these items and you haven’t caught anything for almost twenty minutes, try a different spot. Go with the flow of gulls. They can help you get a good catch. Examine Foucault currents (also known as Eddy currents); make sure they are not a deterrent to your fishing. When they are in search for food, they go from shallow to deep areas. Always remember: You should look for catfish, don’t let them search for you. You’ll be more successful if you do this.
Before acknowledging the kind of bait you will be using, the type of environment where you catch them should be considered. If you have an effective bait and immerse in the water but the area where you go fishing is not a good spot, the time you spent was useless.
This type of fish has no definite characteristic; however, they are fond of hiding. It is necessary to gain knowledge about the bodies of water where you will go fishing and discovering the areas where they usually keep themselves.
If you go catfishing, keep moving together with your rod and reels. If you detect a sneaking fish on the surface, grab and toss the freshly prepared shad head. Situate yourself in an area with a good current. Give a maximum of twenty minutes in a certain area. If you can’t catch any, then, it’s time for you to relocate.
If you are up for a catch, immobilize the bait. Try to minimize unnecessary movements, make sure that it is stable and steady. You can have a large catch if you have the appropriate tools and the ability and the efficiency to fish like pro.
One of the best occasions to do catfishing is when waters from the lake rise due to flood water. Catfish will rush through the freshly washed area and look for feed. Make use of the chopped bluefill and shad head in fresh preparation.
You can go catfishing anytime, however, it is recommended to go fishing late at night and early morning. What’s the difference? The circadian rhythm affects their location. At daytime, they rest in deeper portions of the water. When night starts to fall, they rise near the water surface for feeding. During rainy and cloudy days, expect a good catch. Due to elevations of water level, spring and early fall are the best season to fish for channel catfish. These are instances when catfish are highly active and catching them will often be very easy.
For game fishing, catfish would surely give you the fun and exercise you want. Try to work on different locations when fishing for catfish. There are different types of baits. Freshly prepared baits include cut shad, bluegill, perch, chicken livers, small frogs, night crawlers and many more. If you use these items and you haven’t caught anything for almost twenty minutes, try a different spot. Go with the flow of gulls. They can help you get a good catch. Examine Foucault currents (also known as Eddy currents); make sure they are not a deterrent to your fishing. When they are in search for food, they go from shallow to deep areas. Always remember: You should look for catfish, don’t let them search for you. You’ll be more successful if you do this.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Tips to help make you a better Catfish fisher
* The catfish is more of a night fish. During the hot daytime hours they are in the deep pools,
hiding under debris or logs, but they can still be caught. At dusk it is usually the best time to start
fishing. In the spring and in the fall you will find more catfish then in the summer, but you can still
try on cool evenings. Try out one area of the lake for about 15 minutes. If you don't catch anything
in this time period, you are probably in the wrong area of the lake. Move along and try a different
area. When you throw in the line, start pulling it in slowly, zigzagging the path. As soon as you feel
a slight tug, pull once hard to ensure the fish gets hooked, then steadily pull the fish in.
* When catfish fishing a lake with a manmade current or natural current, always anchor your boat
on the upstream side of the submerged river channel. It might not even seem like there is any
current, but if you have had high water or if they generate for electricty, there will always be a
small amount of current flowing through the lake. Fish the submerged river channel just like you
would any other river with the current taking the smell of your bait downstream.
* The cycle of Blue Catfish is exactly the same as the cycle of the Shad or other baitfish you have
in your lake. Don't kid yourself: pay attention to your fish locator. The masses of Blue Catfish will
always be somewhere around the masses of Shad. Look for the bait, catch some bait, cut them up
and driftfish with a carolina rig through the schools of baitfish.
* Dont be scared to fish in 30 to 50 feet of water: Blue Catfish can tollerate deep water yearround.
* Always fish for Flathead Catfish with live bait and remember, there is a difference between live
bait and lively bait. Make sure your bait is really squirming: the more vibration in the water, the
better the chance for a Flathead find it.
* Believe it or not, but wintertime is the best time for Blue Catfish. Catching the fresh bait can be
hard, but after that has been accomplished, look for huge schools of fish in the submerged river
channel. It might take 4 hours to find the schools, but once you've found them, anchor your boat
somewhere on the top side of the channel and cast your baits from the top of the river channel to
the bottom of it. Wait 30 minutes and move. If they are there and in a feeding mode, it will be fast
and furious action.
* The biggest blue catfish often come from water below the 40-degree mark. Most other gamefish
are sluggish in water this frigid, but not blues - they'll bite aggressively and put up a world-class
fight.
* One of the best baits for a big flathead catfish is a live bluegill (where legal to do so). Fish it
under a float in shallow water, or below a heavy sinker on the bottom of a river. Use stout tackle -
when hooked, a flathead usually heads straight for cover.
* One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to catch catfish is on juglines. Wrap a length of
strong monofilament line around the neck of a plastic milkjug. Pull out the desired length (6 to 10
ft. is usually plenty) and secure the remainder in place with a sturdy rubber band. Rig a stout live
bait hook at the end of the line and a heavy sinker (an old spark plug or wheel weight will work)
about a foot above the hook. Use liver, worms, minnows, shrimp or prepared catfish bait. Put out
several jugs away from heavy boating traffic, then get set for fun as catfish try to make off with
them. Always check local regulations before jug fishing.
* In Spring, catfish often move around shallow rock banks to spawn. They can be caught using live
minnows or prepared baits drifted shallow beneath slip bobbers.
* Catfish naturally lay and swim near the bottom 90% of the time. However some times on overcast
summer days Flatheads and Channels can be caught 5' to 7' from the surface. Most Catfish can
usually be caught along the banks after a good rain storm. They will come to the surface to feed
on washed in bugs and insects. So at these times you might ignore the foot off the bottom rule.
* Channel Cats like Prepared Blood Baits and Hamburger Baits best when the water temperature
is above 78'degrees.
* A longer Rod makes for better hook sets and longer casts. It also allows you to pick up your line
quicker. A 9 to 10 foot long rod is usually sufficient. Most pay lakes 17 to 20 lb test line is
preferred as long as your drag is set right. A good reel is essential because they have smooth,
even given drag systems. The thinner the line the better in clear lakes especially because it is less
likely to spook the fish and makes the bait look more natural in the water.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Bait Tip
If you fish with shad during the summer months you know that it's very hard to keep them alive without some fancy aerator rig and here's a little tip for keeping them fresh. Get a styrophoam minnow bucket or ice chest of some sort and ice them down ... doesn't seem to effect the way the fish bite on them like it would if you froze them and they'll stay fresh like this ... just make sure to poke a hole in the bottom so that the water will drain as the ice melts and just keep the shad on top of the ice. If you leave them in water even though it's icewater it'll affect their freshness ... the way you want them if you use them for cut bait is so that when you cut them fresh blood comes outta the cut. They'll keep like this for like 8 to 12 hours. This is handy if you have to catch your shad at another location other than where you'll be fishing like if you have to drive for an hour or so to get to your fishing hole. If you don't do something like this the shad will ruin or not be as effective in just a few hours or even an hour if it's very hot. This also works if you use perch that has died or about to die and you're using them for cut bait.
If you fish with shad during the summer months you know that it's very hard to keep them alive without some fancy aerator rig and here's a little tip for keeping them fresh. Get a styrophoam minnow bucket or ice chest of some sort and ice them down ... doesn't seem to effect the way the fish bite on them like it would if you froze them and they'll stay fresh like this ... just make sure to poke a hole in the bottom so that the water will drain as the ice melts and just keep the shad on top of the ice. If you leave them in water even though it's icewater it'll affect their freshness ... the way you want them if you use them for cut bait is so that when you cut them fresh blood comes outta the cut. They'll keep like this for like 8 to 12 hours. This is handy if you have to catch your shad at another location other than where you'll be fishing like if you have to drive for an hour or so to get to your fishing hole. If you don't do something like this the shad will ruin or not be as effective in just a few hours or even an hour if it's very hot. This also works if you use perch that has died or about to die and you're using them for cut bait.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
What Are The Best Months To Catch Trophy Catfish?
If you are chasing giant blue and flathead catfish, the summer months, when the water levels are generally lower, is the best time to target them. The warmer water makes the catfish more active and feed more. Another great season to catch big blue catfish is in the winter when most fishermen are waiting for spring to come. Those that know this secret are out killing themselves reeling in the big blues. It's a blast. This season is normally from November to January and sometimes extends into February.
Flatheads often will feed aggressively from late September through late October as they fatten up for the winter. The flathead catfish fishing slows through the winter and picks up again in the spring.
Flatheads often will feed aggressively from late September through late October as they fatten up for the winter. The flathead catfish fishing slows through the winter and picks up again in the spring.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Cold Weather Catfishing Tips
Many anglers miss out on a wonderful opportunity to do some really great catfish fishing because they don't take advantage of fishing during the winter months. When the warm weather comes to an end the fishing gear is packed up and stored away until spring rolls around again. These anglers really don't know what they are missing.
However, as word is spreading about all the benefits winter catfish fishing has to offer it is beginning to grow in popularity all the time and more anglers are taking advantage of the great fishing the cold weather has to offer.
Some of the advantages to fishing in the wintertime include the lakes not being as crowded as they are in the warmer months and there will be less noise to scare the fish away. Wintertime also provides a great opportunity for you to catch some really large catfish which is always a pleasant way to end a fishing trip. Here are a few winter fishing for catfish tips to help you take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer.
Selecting the Right Bait for Winter Catfish Fishing
Selecting the right bait for winter catfish fishing is not as difficult as you might think. You will always have good luck with bait that imitates the natural food source of the water in which you are fishing but having a variety of different options available will ensure your success.
Below is a list of the bait that is among the most favorite of many anglers when fishing in the winter:
Stink Baits
Chicken Blood
Chicken Liver
Dead Minnows
Cut Bait
If possible you should take along a variety of bait when you head out catfish fishing so you will have the option of switching off if they are not taking the bait you start off using. Sometimes the catfish will respond better to one type of bait than another and you have no way of knowing in advance what they will be in the mood for.
When choosing the best bait to use consider the average size of the catfish in the body of water you are fishing. Bait that is too small will be ignored by the larger catfish and bait that is to large will not be taken by the smaller ones.
Using the wrong size bait can keep you from getting the most from your fishing trips and keep in mind that normally fishing near the bottom of the water will get you the best results when you are winter catfish fishing.
You also need to be aware that the catfish will move slower during the winter than they do during the spring and fall so you have to compensate for this by moving the bait at a slow even pace. Like most all species of fish the catfish will gather together in groups even in the wintertime, so your first job is to find where they are congregating together.
However, as word is spreading about all the benefits winter catfish fishing has to offer it is beginning to grow in popularity all the time and more anglers are taking advantage of the great fishing the cold weather has to offer.
Some of the advantages to fishing in the wintertime include the lakes not being as crowded as they are in the warmer months and there will be less noise to scare the fish away. Wintertime also provides a great opportunity for you to catch some really large catfish which is always a pleasant way to end a fishing trip. Here are a few winter fishing for catfish tips to help you take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer.
Selecting the Right Bait for Winter Catfish Fishing
Selecting the right bait for winter catfish fishing is not as difficult as you might think. You will always have good luck with bait that imitates the natural food source of the water in which you are fishing but having a variety of different options available will ensure your success.
Below is a list of the bait that is among the most favorite of many anglers when fishing in the winter:
Stink Baits
Chicken Blood
Chicken Liver
Dead Minnows
Cut Bait
If possible you should take along a variety of bait when you head out catfish fishing so you will have the option of switching off if they are not taking the bait you start off using. Sometimes the catfish will respond better to one type of bait than another and you have no way of knowing in advance what they will be in the mood for.
When choosing the best bait to use consider the average size of the catfish in the body of water you are fishing. Bait that is too small will be ignored by the larger catfish and bait that is to large will not be taken by the smaller ones.
Using the wrong size bait can keep you from getting the most from your fishing trips and keep in mind that normally fishing near the bottom of the water will get you the best results when you are winter catfish fishing.
You also need to be aware that the catfish will move slower during the winter than they do during the spring and fall so you have to compensate for this by moving the bait at a slow even pace. Like most all species of fish the catfish will gather together in groups even in the wintertime, so your first job is to find where they are congregating together.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Cold Weather Catfish Fishing
When it comes to hooks you first need to make sure they are good and sharp. Normally, the hooks that are designed with the bait holder made onto the shank will work the best. When cold weather catfish fishing it is recommended that you use stink bait and remember, the stronger the better. This is because the smell will not travel as far or as fast in the cold water as it does in warm water.
Location
The second biggest difference between warm and cold weather catfish fishing is the location. During the warm months the catfish move out further into the water where the bottom of the lake or river is deeper. Here it is much cooler for them than around the banks and so forth. You will have the most luck when you use a boat to go out in the middle of the body of water where it is the deepest.
In the winter you can find the catfish closer to the banks, which makes it easier for you to get to them. You can fish off banks, piers, bridges or anchor your boat in coves and so forth with great success. Due to the fact they are closer inland they are more accessible making it easier for anyone to fish for catfish whether you have access to a boat or not.
Patience is always a quality needed when catfish fishing but you will need even more when fishing in the cold weather. As mentioned before the catfish move a little slower in the cold than any other time. They will feed but they don’t have any desire to chase so keep this in mind and take your time. You will be rewarded for your patients. However, if you have been in the same location for more than half an hour and you are still not getting any bites, then it is time to move to a new spot.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
big catfish bait
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Flathead Catfishing
One of the native species of catfish in United States is the Flathead catfish. They originate from the rivers of Mississippi and bigger rivers rushing through it. Due to their original location and their usage they were relocated in the bodies of water around the country. They are popularly known for game fishing and as a meal. They usually dwell in sluggish flowing water such as huge rivers, streams, lakes and ponds. They usually stay in deep bodies of water with surface structures such as logs and rocks as their habitat.
Their distinct, elongated flat head is the reason why they are called Flathead catfish. Some of their unique features include their flat, oval shaped eyes and a protruding lower jaw. They come in different colors. Some of them have mottled brown shades while some come in yellow color. When fishing in rivers and lakes, you can catch a Flathead catfish with an average weight of forty to fifty pounds. There are also reported catch of Flatheads weighing more than one hundred pounds.
Flatheads grow rapidly upon hatching. If they have a measurement of fifteen to nineteen inches long, they are considered mature. Usually, their life span reaches up to twenty five years. As they age, they increase in length and weight as well. They eat nearly anything although bite better on certain bait. As long as it can fit in their mouth, they consider it as food. However, they prefer eating fish and bream is their favorite. Perch and Sunfish are also included in their preference. In smaller bodies of water or waters where they are not a habitat, Flatheads destroy sunfish clusters. When Flatheads starts to enter the rivers of Georgia, Redbreast Sunfish start to get extinct. Catfish are lively at night; however, they also feed during day time. They feed through sight. You can make use of light to entice this type of catfish. Usually, they will approach feed with a light in the bait.
Deep holes with covers on the opposite edges of river bends are one of the favorite areas of Flatheads. They usually look for fallen logs, tree base and rocks to act as their hiding place. If you go fishing, approach the edges. Manipulate your bait, float it in and dangle. If bends are too harsh for fishing, look for bends with sluggish flow such as submerged brush piles. Usually, Flatheads trek around ancient rivers and on the creeks of lakes and reservoirs. They go into the shallow surface to feed especially at night time. Situate yourself within these channels and get ready for a good catch.
A better catch happens early morning and evening and during summer months especially after dark. You should be familiar with the behavior of the water and the location of Flatheads. By doing so, you can draw the bait closer to them. Dangle your catfish bait on the bottom of rivers and lakes. Usually, Flatheads feed from the bottom area.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
How To Use Catfish Baits Properly
There is a huge variety of catfish baits. Catfish have no specific food preference, they eat nearly anything although they bite better on specific things. If you are up with NOT catching big catfish, are you sure that you’re utilizing appropriate bait?
Before acknowledging the kind of bait you will be using, the type of environment where you catch them should be considered. If you have an effective bait and immerse in the water but the area where you go fishing is not a good spot, the time you spent was useless.
This type of fish has no definite characteristic; however, they are fond of hiding. It is necessary to gain knowledge about the bodies of water where you will go fishing and discovering the areas where they usually keep themselves.
If you go catfishing, keep moving together with your rod and reels. If you detect a sneaking fish on the surface, grab and toss the freshly prepared shad head. Situate yourself in an area with a good current. Give a maximum of twenty minutes in a certain area. If you can’t catch any, then, it’s time for you to relocate.
If you are up for a catch, immobilize the bait. Try to minimize unnecessary movements, make sure that it is stable and steady. You can have a large catch if you have the appropriate tools and the ability and the efficiency to fish like pro.
One of the best occasions to do catfishing is when waters from the lake rise due to flood water. Catfish will rush through the freshly washed area and look for feed. Make use of the chopped bluefill and shad head in fresh preparation.
You can go catfishing anytime, however, it is recommended to go fishing late at night and early morning. What’s the difference? The circadian rhythm affects their location. At daytime, they rest in deeper portions of the water. When night starts to fall, they rise near the water surface for feeding. During rainy and cloudy days, expect a good catch. Due to elevations of water level, spring and early fall are the best season to fish for channel catfish. These are instances when catfish are highly active and catching them will often be very easy.
For game fishing, catfish would surely give you the fun and exercise you want. Try to work on different locations when fishing for catfish. There are different types of baits. Freshly prepared baits include cut shad, bluegill, perch, chicken livers, small frogs, night crawlers and many more. If you use these items and you haven’t caught anything for almost twenty minutes, try a different spot. Go with the flow of gulls. They can help you get a good catch. Examine Foucault currents (also known as Eddy currents); make sure they are not a deterrent to your fishing. When they are in search for food, they go from shallow to deep areas. Always remember: You should look for catfish, don’t let them search for you. You’ll be more successful if you do this.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Catfishing For Flathead Catfish
Flathead catfish is a native species to the United States. Although they originally came from the Mississippi River and the big rivers that drain off of it, flatheads have been transplanted and can now be found in waters across the nation due to their popularity as a game fish and food. Flatheads can be found in slow-moving water such as large rivers and streams, and also in lakes and ponds. They prefer to reside in deep water with objects like fallen logs that provide good hiding places.
Flathead catfish are so named for their long, distinctly flattened heads. Their eyes are flat and oval shaped, and their lower jaw protrudes past their upper jaw. They come in shades of mottled browns and yellows. Forty- to fifty-pound flatheads are often caught in rivers and lakes. Flathead catfish that are over one-hundred pounds have reportedly also been caught.
After hatching, flathead catfish grow quickly. They are mature when they are about fifteen to nineteen inches long, and can live for over twenty-five years. They grow continuously throughout their life time. Flatheads will eat just about anything they can get in their big mouths, but they prefer fish. Bream are one of their favorite foods. They also love to eat live perch and sunfish. Flathead catfish can destroy the population of some kinds of sunfish, especially in smaller bodies of water, or water where they are not native. Some smaller rivers in Georgia have lost almost all their redbreast sunfish after the introduction of flatheads. Flatheads tend to feed by sight, and will feed at night as well as during the day — even though most catfish tend to be more active at night. You can lure flatheads with light. They’ll come to feed on the baitfish that are attracted to the light.
Flathead catfish like deep holes with cover on the outside edges of river bends. Look for large logjams, tree stumps, and rocks where they like to hide. Cast under the edges. Let your bait drift in, and then hang on. If the outside bends are too strong to fish, find some inside bends with less current. In large lakes and reservoirs, look for the big flatheads in areas with lots of cover — like submerged brush piles. Flatheads often travel in old river and creek channels in these lakes and reservoirs. At night, they’ll travel these channels and emerge at the edge of shallows to feed. Position yourself along these areas and wait for them to arrive.
You’ll have better results fishing for flathead catfish in the early morning, early evening, and after dark in the summer months. Although flatheads will take bait during the day, they won’t go far to do so. You’ll have to become familiar with the body of water you’re fishing in and where flatheads are in order to get the bait close enough to them. Keep your catfish bait on the river or lake bottom. Flathead catfish feed off the bottom most of the time.
Chumming
Fishermen catch more catfish with this method. This is simply throwing balls of mixtures of natural recipes in the fishing area. This attracts more catfish; the trick is that the mixture should be right enough for the catfish to feed heavily. The hook that will be used to fish normally must have the same recipe for the bait. Adding a good smelling flavor into the pasty mixture attracts catfish more.
one of the Best Baits for Catfish: Bullheads
If you really want to catch a big catfish, and I mean really big, you will want to know what the best bait for catfish is. Something that works better than anything else for Flathead catfish. Yes, Flathead, those monsters can weigh as much as 123 lbs, the record and are regularly hauled in weighing 40-80 lbs.
No matter what you have used before there is one bait that consistently works better than any other bait for Flathead catfish in most situations. But you will have to check because in some states it is illegal to use. But if it is legal in your area you had better have the heavy tackle ready. You will need it.
The best bait for catfish, flatheads that is, is bullhead catfish. Catfish are the “sharks of fresh water” and are extremely territorial. Bullheads cause a territorial reaction in all species of catfish. Catfish do not have a problem eating their own. Putting a bullhead in their territory will make a big catfish very aggressive.
You will want a 4-6 inch bullhead. Hook him through the mouth with a number 4 octopus hook. Toss him out there and hang on tight because he is going to get nailed. I hope you brought the heavy tackle because if you didn’t you will never get that monster in.
I have to warn you, check your local rules and regulations. Bullhead are considered game fish in some states so you have to check and make sure they are legal to use as bai
No matter what you have used before there is one bait that consistently works better than any other bait for Flathead catfish in most situations. But you will have to check because in some states it is illegal to use. But if it is legal in your area you had better have the heavy tackle ready. You will need it.
The best bait for catfish, flatheads that is, is bullhead catfish. Catfish are the “sharks of fresh water” and are extremely territorial. Bullheads cause a territorial reaction in all species of catfish. Catfish do not have a problem eating their own. Putting a bullhead in their territory will make a big catfish very aggressive.
You will want a 4-6 inch bullhead. Hook him through the mouth with a number 4 octopus hook. Toss him out there and hang on tight because he is going to get nailed. I hope you brought the heavy tackle because if you didn’t you will never get that monster in.
I have to warn you, check your local rules and regulations. Bullhead are considered game fish in some states so you have to check and make sure they are legal to use as bai
Going for the Big Ones - Tips For Catching big Blue Cats
These cats are similar to their cousins, the channel cat, but different in a few ways. For one thing, they have a distinct blue coloring (which gives them their name). The back has a bluish tint, and their underbelly is white. But the biggest way you can tell it's a blue, is that they have a forked tail. You won't see any other catfish like this. Other than that, blues are so similar they are often mistaken for channel catfish, and in some parts of the country the locals won't make any distinction between them.
Another thing that sets blues apart is that they are on the big end of the scale. Usually blues are between 20 and 40 pounds, although there are some legendary blue catfish that are well over 100 pounds! If you are an angler in Texas, you've probably seen some 50 pound blues in your time. These are big fish, and that's why we want to target 'em!
Tips on Catching Blue Cats
- First off, bait is always important. Blues, more than any other kind of catfish, love live bait. Take in something that is or once was alive, and the stinkier the better. Blue catfish are known for going after live bait much younger than other fish, so using good, live, stinky bait will get you blues. Blue catfish also have an especially keen sense of smell, so baits that smell funny will work much better than ordinary stuff. Probably your best bet is to use some kind of bait fish, or smaller catfish. Chicken livers, dried chicken blood and nightcrawlers work well too.
- Use a pretty good-sized hook. Anything from 3/0 to 9/0 will work well. Remember, these are pretty big catfish. You'll probably want to cut your bait 6 to 12 inches long.
- Blue catfish are known as fighters. Be ready for a battle! These stubborn fish don't want to come out of that water for any reason whatsoever, so you should make sure you have a good, tough rod to pull him out with. Also, make sure you have a strong line and heavy tackle.
- Blue cats like to stick to cool waters. The best time to go out looking for them is in the fall, from September to December. They'll be out feeding much later than other species of catfish. It depends a little bit on where you live, but definitely fall and early spring are the best times to catch them. In places like Iowa and Idaho, anglers have been known to catch some pretty big blue cats in the winter time.
- Pick a good spot. There are lots of blues hanging out in the bottom of that big river, but pick a little tributary with enough rushing water, and you might have better luck. Look for an area that is deeper than the rest of the river or stream. The best spot is just past a rapid. Here, there will be a calm pool that the rapid empties out into, and all that rushing water plunging into the pool will make a depression at the bottom. This is the perfect spot for blue catfish to be in. Fish these spots, and you'll improve your chances of catching a blue
Another thing that sets blues apart is that they are on the big end of the scale. Usually blues are between 20 and 40 pounds, although there are some legendary blue catfish that are well over 100 pounds! If you are an angler in Texas, you've probably seen some 50 pound blues in your time. These are big fish, and that's why we want to target 'em!
Tips on Catching Blue Cats
- First off, bait is always important. Blues, more than any other kind of catfish, love live bait. Take in something that is or once was alive, and the stinkier the better. Blue catfish are known for going after live bait much younger than other fish, so using good, live, stinky bait will get you blues. Blue catfish also have an especially keen sense of smell, so baits that smell funny will work much better than ordinary stuff. Probably your best bet is to use some kind of bait fish, or smaller catfish. Chicken livers, dried chicken blood and nightcrawlers work well too.
- Use a pretty good-sized hook. Anything from 3/0 to 9/0 will work well. Remember, these are pretty big catfish. You'll probably want to cut your bait 6 to 12 inches long.
- Blue catfish are known as fighters. Be ready for a battle! These stubborn fish don't want to come out of that water for any reason whatsoever, so you should make sure you have a good, tough rod to pull him out with. Also, make sure you have a strong line and heavy tackle.
- Blue cats like to stick to cool waters. The best time to go out looking for them is in the fall, from September to December. They'll be out feeding much later than other species of catfish. It depends a little bit on where you live, but definitely fall and early spring are the best times to catch them. In places like Iowa and Idaho, anglers have been known to catch some pretty big blue cats in the winter time.
- Pick a good spot. There are lots of blues hanging out in the bottom of that big river, but pick a little tributary with enough rushing water, and you might have better luck. Look for an area that is deeper than the rest of the river or stream. The best spot is just past a rapid. Here, there will be a calm pool that the rapid empties out into, and all that rushing water plunging into the pool will make a depression at the bottom. This is the perfect spot for blue catfish to be in. Fish these spots, and you'll improve your chances of catching a blue
One trick when fishing big live fish like bream, shad, for catfish
One trick when fishing big live fish like bream, shad, or minnows for catfish is to wound the baitfish slightly. Clip off the top fin with a pair of scissors or make a cut along the back with your bait knife. This simple trick is actually very effective, since catfish hone in on wounded baitfish naturally and the baitfish will leak out blood and juices that stir catfish up.
Filleting
Catfish Soap Bait Recipe
Ingredients you need:
Step 2 – Melt fat in pot (Medium heat) Once melted, set aside and allow to cool but don’t let it harden or you will have to melt again.
Step 3 – Put 2 quarts water into glass container.
Step 4 – Add 10 ounces lye to water and gently stir. (Warning - NEVER add the water to the lye. Doing so will cause a reaction. LYE is CAUSTIC and can CAUSE SERIOUS BURNS. Again, always add the lye to the water, never the opposite!)
Step 5 – Add melted fat to the lye mixture stirring slowly. (Stirring to fast will allow air bubbles to get into the mixture that will cause your bait to float. You want your bait to sink.) Only add enough melted fat to create a think paste.
Step 6 – Add cheese stirring slowly to avoid air bubbles (You could melt the cheese in the microwave for 1 minute or add as is.)
Step 7 – Pour mixture into milk carton mold and allow to harden over a couple of days.
Step 8 – When ready to use, cut off a cube and push onto hook and start reeling in the big ones!
- 10 ounces of lye
- 2 quarts of water
- Glass Container (For mixing the lye – DO NOT use plastic!)
- 5 lbs animal fat
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Cooking Pot
- Stirring Spoon
- Cardboard milk carton
Step 2 – Melt fat in pot (Medium heat) Once melted, set aside and allow to cool but don’t let it harden or you will have to melt again.
Step 3 – Put 2 quarts water into glass container.
Step 4 – Add 10 ounces lye to water and gently stir. (Warning - NEVER add the water to the lye. Doing so will cause a reaction. LYE is CAUSTIC and can CAUSE SERIOUS BURNS. Again, always add the lye to the water, never the opposite!)
Step 5 – Add melted fat to the lye mixture stirring slowly. (Stirring to fast will allow air bubbles to get into the mixture that will cause your bait to float. You want your bait to sink.) Only add enough melted fat to create a think paste.
Step 6 – Add cheese stirring slowly to avoid air bubbles (You could melt the cheese in the microwave for 1 minute or add as is.)
Step 7 – Pour mixture into milk carton mold and allow to harden over a couple of days.
Step 8 – When ready to use, cut off a cube and push onto hook and start reeling in the big ones!
Where Will The Giant Catfish Be Lurking
Flathead catfish like deep holes with cover on the outside edges of the rivers bends. Look for large logjams, cast under the edges and let your bait drift in and then hang on. If the outside bends are too strong to fish try to find some inside bends with less current to fish.
In large lakes and reservoirs look for the big flatheads in areas with lots of cover, submerged brush piles, or stumps. They often travel in old river and creek channels in these lakes and reservoirs. Often at night they will travel these channels emerging at the edge of shallows where they come to feed. Position yourself along these areas and wait for them to arrive.
Blue catfish will often be found in similar areas as the flathead catfish.
The blues can sometimes also be found a little deeper along drop-offs and ledges
What Are The Best Months To Catch Trophy Catfish?
If you are chasing giant blue and flathead catfish, the summer months, when the water levels are generally lower, is the best time to target them. The warmer water makes the catfish more active and feed more. Another great season to catch big blue catfish is in the winter when most fishermen are waiting for spring to come. Those that know this secret are out killing themselves reeling in the big blues. It's a blast. This season is normally from November to January and sometimes extends into February.
Flatheads often will feed aggressively from late September through late October as they fatten up for the winter. The flathead catfish fishing slows through the winter and picks up again in the spring.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
• Look At Hooks
If you’re having trouble hooking catfish (many anglers do), be sure your hooks are needle-sharp. Run each point over a fingernail. Sharp hooks dig in. Those that skate across the nail without catching should be honed or replaced. Second, instead of burying your hook in bait, leave the barb exposed. Catfish won’t notice. More hookups will result.
• Rods For Shore
Use long rods (7 feet-plus) when bank-fishing. These offer several advantages, including increased casting distance, more “reach” for working rigs properly around cover, better bait control and more hooksetting and fighting power.
• Quick Rig
One simple rig that works surprisingly well in many situations is just a lead jighead with a chunk of shad or herring impaled on the hook.
• The Night Bite
When night-fishing, know when a cat takes your bait. Helpful products include: night bobbers (special floats with a light on top powered by a cyalume light stick or lithium battery); a 12-volt ultraviolet light, which makes fluorescent monofilament glow, allowing you to see line movements; rods with glow-in-the-dark or fluorescent tips; rod bells, which clip on and ring when a catfish shakes your pole; and electronic bite indicators, which attach to your line and emit an audible signal when a catfish runs with your bait.
Stick to traditional approaches when they’re producing cats. But remember: When other tactics fail, the tips presented above can make your catch rate soar. Give them a try.
If you’re having trouble hooking catfish (many anglers do), be sure your hooks are needle-sharp. Run each point over a fingernail. Sharp hooks dig in. Those that skate across the nail without catching should be honed or replaced. Second, instead of burying your hook in bait, leave the barb exposed. Catfish won’t notice. More hookups will result.
• Rods For Shore
Use long rods (7 feet-plus) when bank-fishing. These offer several advantages, including increased casting distance, more “reach” for working rigs properly around cover, better bait control and more hooksetting and fighting power.
• Quick Rig
One simple rig that works surprisingly well in many situations is just a lead jighead with a chunk of shad or herring impaled on the hook.
• The Night Bite
When night-fishing, know when a cat takes your bait. Helpful products include: night bobbers (special floats with a light on top powered by a cyalume light stick or lithium battery); a 12-volt ultraviolet light, which makes fluorescent monofilament glow, allowing you to see line movements; rods with glow-in-the-dark or fluorescent tips; rod bells, which clip on and ring when a catfish shakes your pole; and electronic bite indicators, which attach to your line and emit an audible signal when a catfish runs with your bait.
Stick to traditional approaches when they’re producing cats. But remember: When other tactics fail, the tips presented above can make your catch rate soar. Give them a try.
The Best Catfish Bait For Big Cats
The next time you go catfish fishing be sure to take a casting net. It is how I get the best catfish bait for big cats. If you don't know how to throw one don't worry about. You can pick it up in an hour or two of practice. Once you have it down you won't forget it.
Why do you need a casting net to get the best catfish bait for big cats? Because you want fresh live bait. Just about any species will do but be sure to check your states regulations on live bait. My favorites are bluegill and shad but bluegill are illegal in some states. Both are abundant in just about any waterway. Also don't rule out bullhead catfish as Flatheads and Blues don't seem to have a problem eating their own species. In fact, Flatheads will often times prefer Bullhead over Shad.
Now that you have your live bait let's make sure that your rig is set up right. You should have a medium to heavy rod with at least 20# test line, I use 50# spider wire, with a 20# leader and numbers 2 - 6 circle hooks depending on how big a cat you are after. Slip a slip sinker on the line, and then tie on a good swivel, a 12-18 inch leader and your hook. Don't go cheap on the swivel. Cats like to roll when hooked and a big cat will tear a cheap brass swivel up. Fish your bait on the bottom with an open bail. Be sure to set the hook hard when the cat makes a run with your bait.
The big cats Flathead and Blue when mature prefer live bait. They will occasionally go after cut baits but if you want the best bait for big cats you will want live bait. Live bait can be hooked behind the dorsal fin below the spine, at the end of the tail, or up through the lower jaw and up through the nostrils. Don't be afraid to choose a bait fish 6-12 inches in length if you want that monster cat.
You may be thinking you won't catch many fish with bait that size and your right. But if you are looking for the big catfish I am assuming you don't care about the 1 and 2 pounders you can catch with chicken liver then live bait is the way to go. You can always use smaller baitfish or even cut bait if you run out of patience but your chances of landing a 20 plus pound cat are less. The best bait for big cats will always be live bait.
Bluegill for Big Catfish
- 1Cut the head off of the bluegill. This will provide you with two pieces of bait. Catfish prefer their meals bloody, so this technique will help to attract the big ones.
- 2Hook the head one-third of the way down the head, starting from the mouth. The heads will stay on the hook better than the rest of the bluegill.
- 3Remove the tail from the remaining portion of bluegill. This will leave you with a midsection. Use this as a separate piece of bait. You can dispose of the tail, as it won't stay on the hook well and does not contain enough blood to attract the catfish.
- 4Hook the midsection of the bluegill in the top center of the bait. Make sure there is enough meat above the hook so that it won't easily pull from the line. The midsection works well for attracting catfish because it contains internal organs and is full of blood.
LIVE BAIT METHOD
- 1Hook a live bluegill under the dorsel fin, in the meaty section of the back.
- 2Cut a long but shallow slit along one side of the bluegill. The bait fish will bleed slowly as it thrashes in the water, which will attract catfish.
- 3Cast your line and let the bluegill do its work. Before long, you will have tugs on your line. Make sure you set the hook when you are confident the catfish has a good grasp of the bait and hook.
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