Cat Fishing: A Beginner’s Guide to Catching Cats

Cat Fishing: A Beginner’s Guide to Catching Cats

Cat fishing is one of the most thrilling and rewarding types of angling you can dive into. Known for their size, strength, and stamina, catfish offer a challenge like no other and the satisfaction of landing a giant catfish is unmatched. If you're looking to get started, this blog will walk you through the essentials to help you hit the ground running (or rather, the water)!

1. Know Your Target: The Catfish

Before you head out, it’s important to understand the species you’re targeting. Catfish are fascinating creatures, from their distinct whisker-like barbels to their powerful tails. These fish are hardy, opportunistic predators, and they thrive in a wide range of environments including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and even canals.

The most common catfish you’ll encounter in the UK include:

• Wels Catfish: The true giants, capable of growing over 100 lbs.

  
  

Catfish are primarily bottom feeders, but they’re also carnivorous predators. This means they respond to a variety of bait and thrive in conditions where food is abundant.

2. Gather the Right Gear

Starting out in the world of cat fishing requires specialised gear to handle these powerful fish. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Rod: A heavy-duty 10-12 foot rod (I prefer 10 ft rods) with a strong backbone is essential for battling large catfish. You can get rods built for cat fish but equally a strong carp rod will work equally as well, I recommend a minimum of 3.5lb test curve.

• Reel: A reliable reel with a high line capacity is ideal. Whether its a front drag or bait runner type reel, as long as its around 8000 - 10000 in size, you should be good.

• Line: I advise using braided line with a high pound test to handle the weight and strength of big catfish. I currently use the Berkley 80lb Braid.

• Hooks: Hooks really are personal preference size wise. I landed a 55lb Cat on a Size 4 Korda Wide Gape hook! If you're targeting big big cat fish then look to Catfish Pro range of hooks or Target Catfish. Two quality brands.

• Landing Net: I recommend a 42inch net as a minimum. If there are big cats in the water, above 60lb for example, then look to a 50 inch net.

• Cradle / Mat: An XL Cradle is required on most waters in the UK as standard so you will generally not be allowed to fish without one. There are tons of choice out there when it comes to unhooking cradles and mats.

• Sling: If you are removing the fish from the water, then you will require a sling to weight it and of course to return it. There are many available on the market.

• Forceps: Cats have a very sharp/abrasive mouth with rows of very fine teeth, almost like very sharp Velcro. Using a set of long nosed forceps will help safely remove your hook without danger to your fingers!

  
  

3. Choose Your Bait Wisely

Catfish are famous for their appetite, making bait selection crucial to your success. While they aren’t too picky, certain baits work better than others:

• Natural Baits: Worms can work wonders on the right day on a tipper rig but I personally don't use them as they can get hounded by perch and other smaller fish.

• Smelly Baits: Catfish have an incredible sense of smell, so a strong-smelling fishy bait is crucial. I love using the Arctic Crab range from RG Baits (it's a carp brand) but works wonders for the cats! Baits worth looking into are Halibut Pellet, and big boilies, especially from the dynamite baits range. Catfish Pro also have a fantastic range of smelly cat baits from boilies to dumbbells and glugged pellet.

• Base Mix: Where ever you fish, you will need something to attract cats to your hook bait. This is where your base mix comes in and there are many ways to build it. I typically will use a mix of 4, 6 and 8 mil high oil pellet along with boilies, halibut pellet, glug, sometimes chopped up fish and even maggot or worm if you so wish, it really is personal preference! Always do you research on your water and ask the owner / bailiff or other anglers what the preferred bait is on the water. For example on a local cat water, Robin Reds work wonders!

• Glug: It really is debated whether glug actually adds any edge to your base pellet mix. I am firmly in the camp that uses glug and believe it to be effective. As I mentioned, the Arctic Crab glug from RG Baits absolutely sticks. You could also chop up some dead fish into pieces and mix your base pellet mix with that which will give a natural oily fish smell in the water column. There are many other stinky glugs too from krill to crab!

• Live/Dead Baits: Live baits are one of my favourite ways to target cats using a dumbbell rig. Also, using the head of a fish or even a full small fish can be brutal on the right day. Although, if there are eels and / or pike in the water, they might get there first.

Experiment to find what works best in your chosen location.

4. Scout the Best Locations

Whenever arriving a new water, look for structures, islands, ledges, vegetation etc. In addition, cats tend to slap the surface so its definitely worth having a walk around and seeing if they show themselves!

• Catfish are generally most active at night (although, I've caught plenty in the daylight hours too). But definitely had more action during the twilight hours!

• In rivers, focus on bends or deep sections where food accumulates.

  
  

5. Master the Rig Setup

Your rig plays a major role in presenting the bait properly. Here’s a simple setup to start with:

• Running Rig: A basic and effective rig for bottom fishing. It uses a free running lead behind a buffer and a swivel, followed by your hook length. I prefer this rig as it offers minimal to resistance to the fish on take. I have found that the least path to resistance works better for cats - at least it does for me!

• Tip: Make sure your hook length is tough—it has to withstand the abrasive mouth of catfish. I use the 80lb Catfish pro leader.

• Note. This rig is to be set up on an alarm.

  
  

6. Be Patient and Stay Alert

Cat fishing can be a waiting game. As the famous saying goes, 'Bait and Wait'! Once your bait is in the water, it’s time to let the catfish come to you.

7. Respect the Process and the Fish

Finally, remember that cat fishing is about more than just the catch. Take time to enjoy the tranquillity of the water, the thrill of the chase, and the memories you’re creating. Additionally, always practice ethical fishing. Handle fish carefully, always carry a fish care kit and treat any wounds found.

Final Thoughts

Jumping in to the cat fishing world is a journey filled with challenges, learning curves, and incredible rewards. With the right gear, bait, and strategy, you’ll be well on your way to landing your first giant catfish. So pack your tackle, head to the water, and prepare for some unforgettable battles!

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Author: Stuart Repon