Catfish
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Catfish, known for their size and delicious taste, can be found in various bodies of water throughout the South/Gulf region. These bottom-dwelling fish thrive in a wide range of aquatic habitats, including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and ponds.
Alabama: Alabama River, Lake Guntersville, Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Wheeler Lake, Wilson Lake.
Arkansas: Arkansas River, Lake Ouachita, Mississippi River, Lake Dardanelle, Lake Conway.
Georgia: Altamaha River, Chattahoochee River, Lake Blackshear, Lake Lanier, Oconee River.
Louisiana: Atchafalaya Basin, Calcasieu Lake, Lake Pontchartrain, Red River, Toledo Bend Reservoir.
Mississippi: Mississippi River, Ross Barnett Reservoir, Sardis Lake, Grenada Lake, Enid Lake.
Oklahoma: Arkansas River, Grand Lake, Keystone Lake, Lake Eufaula, Lake Texoma.
Tennessee: Cumberland River, Kentucky Lake, Mississippi River, Old Hickory Lake, Tennessee River.
Texas: Brazos River, Lake Fork, Lake Livingston, Lake Texoma, Sam Rayburn Reservoir.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Catfish can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, with a preference for slow-moving or still waters. They are often found near submerged structures such as logs, brush piles, and fallen trees. Catfish also frequent areas with deep holes, channel edges, and underwater ledges. They prefer muddy or sandy bottoms and are known to inhabit areas with abundant vegetation and cover.
Look for catfish near creek mouths, river bends, and areas with a steady flow of water. They are primarily bottom feeders and use their sensitive barbels to locate food. Catfish can be found in both shallow and deep water, depending on the time of year and feeding patterns.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring, catfish become more active as water temperatures rise. Look for them in shallower areas near the shorelines, creek mouths, or areas with submerged vegetation. Catfish are known to move into these areas to feed and spawn during this time.
SUMMER
In the summer, catfish tend to seek deeper and cooler water, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. Look for them near submerged structures, such as fallen trees or underwater ledges. Catfish can often be found near areas with strong current or where rivers and creeks merge.
FALL
As fall arrives, catfish actively feed to build up energy reserves for the upcoming winter. They may move into shallower areas near drop-offs, channel edges, or areas with cover. Look for catfish near structure, such as fallen trees or submerged vegetation, where they can ambush their prey.
WINTER
During the winter months, catfish become less active and may move to deeper sections of rivers and lakes. Look for them near areas with warm water sources, such as power plant outflows or deep holes. Fishing with patience and using scent-based baits can increase your chances of success during the colder months.
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.