Catfish
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Catfish, known for their size, strength, and delicious taste, can be found in various bodies of water across the North/Great Lakes region of the United States. Anglers are drawn to these waters to target catfish for their thrilling fights and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized specimens. The following bodies of water are popular destinations for catfish fishing in this region:
Michigan: Lake St. Clair, Detroit River, and Saginaw Bay are renowned for their catfish populations. These large bodies of water provide ample opportunities to target channel catfish, flathead catfish, and even the occasional blue catfish. Look for catfish near drop-offs, deep holes, submerged structures, and areas with ample cover.
Minnesota: The Mississippi River and St. Croix River offer excellent catfish fishing opportunities. These mighty rivers hold robust populations of channel catfish and flathead catfish. Focus your efforts near deep holes, bends, snags, and backwaters, where catfish are known to congregate.
North Dakota: The Red River is famous for its trophy catfish, drawing anglers from far and wide. This river holds impressive populations of channel catfish and some massive flathead catfish. Look for catfish near deep holes, undercut banks, and areas with abundant structure.
South Dakota: The Missouri River, particularly stretches around Pierre and Chamberlain, is a prime destination for catfish. Anglers target channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish in this expansive river system. Focus your efforts near deep pools, snags, and eddies for the best chance of landing a catfish.
Wisconsin: The Wisconsin River and Fox River are known for their productive catfish fisheries. Anglers target channel catfish and flathead catfish in these rivers, focusing on deep holes, undercut banks, and areas with submerged structure.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Catfish are adaptable and can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats within the North/Great Lakes region. They prefer slow-moving or still waters such as rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and backwaters.
Look for catfish near submerged structures such as fallen trees, brush piles, rock formations, and deep holes. They often seek out areas with ample cover, such as undercut banks, root systems, and areas with overhanging vegetation.
Catfish are bottom-feeders and primarily rely on their sense of smell to locate food, so areas with muddy or sandy bottoms can be productive.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring months, catfish become more active as the water temperature rises. They start moving out of their wintering areas and into shallower waters to feed. Focus your fishing efforts near warm-water discharges, deep holes, and areas with abundant structure. Use a variety of baits such as cut bait, live bait (such as nightcrawlers or large minnows), or prepared catfish baits.
SUMMER
In the summer, catfish seek cooler areas and are more active during low-light periods and at night. Focus your efforts near deeper holes, submerged structure, and areas with vegetation. Use a combination of live baits, fresh cut bait, or stink baits to attract catfish. Night fishing with rod-and-reel or jug lines can be particularly productive during this season.
FALL
As fall arrives, catfish actively feed to prepare for the upcoming winter. Look for them near deep holes, structure, and areas with good water flow. Use a variety of baits such as fresh cut bait, live bait, or even artificial baits designed to mimic prey fish. Drift fishing or anchoring near productive areas can be effective in enticing strikes from hungry catfish.
WINTER
During the winter months, catfish become less active but can still be caught. They tend to move to deeper, slower-moving areas and become more lethargic. Focus your efforts near deep holes, channels, or areas where catfish tend to gather. Use natural baits such as cut bait, dead minnows, or even homemade dough baits. Fishing with patience and offering baits close to the bottom can increase your chances of success.
Bait
Cut Bait: Cut bait such as shad, herring, and bluegills are very effective for catching catfish. These baits can be fished on the bottom or suspended under a bobber
Live Bait: Live bait such as worms, minnows, and crayfish can also be very effective for catching catfish. These baits can be used to imitate the natural prey of the fish and can be particularly effective when fishing in clear water or when the fish are not actively feeding
Prepared Baits: Prepared baits such as catfish dough balls, dip baits and gels can be effective when targeting catfish. These baits are formulated to mimic the scent and taste of natural food sources and can be used in various ways such as on a bottom rig or under a bobber
Chicken Livers
Fish parts: Fish parts such as heads, tails, and wings can also be used as bait for catfish. These baits can be fished on the bottom or suspended under a bobber.