When Is the Best Time to Catch Catfish?
If you’re looking to reel in a big catfish, you need to know when is the best time to do it. Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to this question. Knowing when is the best time to catch catfish depends on many factors, including the time of year, the water temperature, and the type of bait you are using.
We’ll discuss some tips for catching channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish and increasing your chances of success.
Let’s get started.
Best Time Of Day To Catch Catfish
You ask a hundred catfish anglers this question, and you’ll get a hundred diff answers. And to be quite honest, if the water temperature is right, you can pretty much catch catfish any time of day. However, most anglers will tell you that catfish are more active during the early morning and evening hours.
Temperature is more important than time for catching catfish, and the best temperature for increased catfish behavior is in warmer water temperatures.
Anywhere from 73 degrees F up to 86 degrees F is when you’ll find catfish the most active. This is when the catfish bite will be more aggressive, as well as they’re actively feeding near shallow water. Use this as a general rule of thumb if you’re looking for the best way to catch catfish in a pond or large lake.
Night Fishing For Catfish
Night fishing for catfish can be a lot of fun and very productive. One of the main advantages of fishing at night is that the fish are more active and easier to catch. In addition, you can avoid the heat and sun during the summer months.
Other tips for fishing at night for monster catfish:
- Use a lighted bobber or light stick to see your bait and action.
- Use stink baits when night fishing for catfish.
- Fish at night when the water temperature is warmer to avoid getting sunburned.
- Get a nice set of headlamps; this will allow you to have hands-free visibility.
Best Catfish Bait for Night Fishing
Some of the best baits for catching catfish when the sun goes down are live bait such as minnows, worms, and shrimp. In addition, you can also use cut bait such as chicken livers or gizzards when fishing for catfish at night.
Another great option when fishing for catfish at night is to use stink baits; these will help pull up those bigger catfish.
Best Time of Year For Catfishing
The best time of year to catch catfish varies from season to season.
Springtime Catfishing
In the spring, catfish will start spawning and be more aggressive when feeding. The rivers and streams will also be flowing faster with the snow runoff, making it a great time to target catfish.
In addition, the catfish will start moving into the creeks and smaller streams as the water warm up. This is when you’ll want to use a light tackle rod with some lighter line for fishing in these areas.
Catfishing in Summer
During the summer months, the water temperature is at its warmest, and this is when you’ll find catfish near the surface of the water. You can also expect to see more blue catfish during this time. Use a heavier tackle when fishing for catfish during the summer months.
Catfish Fishing In Fall
The catfish will start moving back to the main river and stream channel in the fall. This is when you’ll want to use a heavier tackle with larger baits when targeting these fish.
Fall is a good time for fishing for flathead catfish as they start to move into shallower waters, looking for food. In addition, many anglers consider fall to be one of the best times of year for catfish due to lower temperatures and less competition from other anglers.
Catfish Fishing In Winter
Winter is when most anglers consider being the off-season for catfish. However, you can still catch catfish during this time of year, but they will be deeper in the water and more difficult to catch.
Catfish Species
Channel Catfish
Channel catfish are the most common type of catfish and can be found in many different waterways across the United States. This is a great fish for beginners as they are aggressive when feeding and can be caught with a variety of baits.
Blue Catfish
The blue catfish is the second most popular species of catfish and can reach sizes up to 100 pounds or more. They are usually found in large rivers and reservoirs where they feed on a variety of prey items.
Flathead Catfish
Flathead cats are one of the largest freshwater fish in North America and are known for their ferocious appetite. Flatheads are typically slow-moving fish that lurk near structures such as logs, rocks, or undercut banks.
Bullhead Catfish
Bullhead catfish are the smallest of the four main species of catfish and can be found in many different types of water. They are typically bottom feeders that eat anything from small fish to insects.
How To Catch Catfish From The Bank
Catfish bank fishing is a great way to catch big catfish. To be successful, you’ll need to know when and where they are feeding.
One of the best times to fish for catfish from the bank is during the early morning or late evening when they are feeding near the water’s surface.
When fishing for catfish from the bank, get the best rod and reel combo for catfish that you can afford. You’ll also want to bring along some heavy-duty line, as most catfish will test your tackle.
Always remember to dress appropriately for fishing in freshwater. Wear clothing that will protect you from the sun and mosquitoes, as well as waders if you’re going to be fishing in a river or stream.
When choosing a location to fish for catfish, look for areas where there is structure, such as logs, rocks, or undercut banks. Catfish hide near these structures and feed on smaller fish and insects.
Finally, when choosing a bait to use for catfish, it’s best to go with something that is natural and appeals to their appetite. Baits such as live bait (worms, minnows, etc.), cut bait (flesh of fish, chicken liver, etc.), or prepared baits (liverwurst, dough balls, etc.) will all work well.
Best Catfish Rig For Bank Fishing
The slip rig is one of the most popular rigs for catching catfish from the bank. It is simple to set up and can be used with a variety of baits. To make a slip rig, you will need a weight, some leader material, and a hook.
The weight is tied to the end of the leader material, and the hook is then tied about 18 inches above the weight. The bait is then attached to the hook. When a catfish takes the bait, the weight will pull it down and set the hook.
Catfish anglers can also find a nice kayak for under $1,000 and leverage more locations and better fishing when on the water.
Final Thoughts
The best time of year to catch catfish varies depending on the species you are targeting. However, general tips can help you increase your chances of catching a big one.
One of the best things you can do when fishing for catfish is to have the right gear. Make sure you have a sturdy rod and reel to handle large fish. You’ll also want to bring along some heavy-duty line, as most catfish will test your tackle.
In addition, it’s important to dress appropriately for fishing in freshwater. Wear clothing that will protect you from the sun and mosquitoes, as well as waders if you’re going to be fishing in a river or stream. Other fishing gear such as fishing sunglasses and good pair of fishing shoes, will make a day out on the water more successful as well.
When choosing a location to fish for catfish, look for areas where there is structure, such as logs, rocks, or undercut banks. Catfish hide near these structures and feed on smaller fish and insects.
Finally, when choosing a bait to use for catfish, it’s best to go with something that is natural and appeals to their appetite. Baits such as live bait (worms, minnows, etc.), cut bait (flesh of fish, chicken, etc.), or prepared baits (liverwurst, dough balls, etc.) will all work well.
Catfish can be caught at any time of year, but the best times vary depending on your target species. In general, you’ll want to use a heavier tackle when fishing for catfish during the summer months when they are near the surface of the water.
They will start moving back to the main river and stream channel in the fall, and you’ll want to use a heavier tackle with larger baits. In winter, when most anglers consider being the off-season for catfish, you can still catch them, but they will be deeper in the water and more difficult to catch.
