Lauren's Fishing: July 2007

CATFISH

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. They can be found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers. Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Fishing for Channel Catfish

Channel cats can be caught most any time of year except in extreme cold water conditions. The best time of year tends to be spring and fall followed by summer and lastly winter. Channel catfish favor crawfish and small fish, so look for them at varying depths where there is rock or gravel that attracts the crawfish or other forms of cover that attracts baitfish and other small fish. In the warmer summer months catfish can be found in areas with moss, which they feed on.

Fishing For Flathead Catfish

Flatheads are caught primarily on bait like live shiners and chubs and only occasionally on cut or prepared baits. They are the second largest of the catfishes and lie in cover of submerged logs or other large structures. Prime fishing time for catching flathead catfish is after dark.

Catfish Baits

If it resembles food in any way and emits scent or an odor it is likely to attract the interest of catfish. Every ardent catfish expert has their own secret recipe. The ingredients range from natural prey of fish and fowl to non-food items like soap and chemicals. Chicken, shrimp, liver and stink baits are the most common ingredients. The long whiskers of the catfish are always in search of an easy meal.

http://www.fishexplorer.com/fx/fish.asp?lid=2144&fid=5

SMALLMOUTH BAIT

From the bank:
Texas-rigged worm http://www.tackletour.com/reviewbrassandglass.html
Crawfish, live or artificial, in rip rap.

Boat Docks:
Spinnerbait
Texas rigged worm with Soft Stick Bait underneath

In Grass off the bank:
Plastic frog. It is better if there is an open area between the bank and the grass. Cast the frog onto the grass and then pull it into the edge of the open area.