Cat Fishing

The catfish family is a very diverse species. There are known disparities in physical characteristics, known habitats, and favored prey among this grouping. There are 37 recognized orders of catfish species. The largest recorded catfish is the 646 lb. Giant Mekong captured in northern Thailand in May of 2005. In comparison, there is a common species of catfish, the candiru, which is the size of a parasite. Having no scales, the catfish is known to have a hollow, and powerfully strong, leading ray on the dorsal pectoral fins. These barbels can protect the catfish by producing a stinging protein to ward off danger. The sting is quite effective, and in some cases, though quite uncommon, has even hospitalized human victims.

Catfish are freshwater fish, and have been observed on every continent with the exception of Antarctica. Catfish are found in many different habitats, from lakes to ponds, and as some catfish anglers like to joke, in potholes after a good, hard rain. All joking aside, catfish populations are abundant, and it is no wonder that they remain an important food fish around the world.

The most common species of catfish for the angler are Blue Catfish, Flatheads, and Channel Catfish. These species are not picky eaters, and will normally try any bait thrown their way. Catfish feed according to taste and touch more than by sight, so the lures and baits traditional to other types of fishing will not be as effective. Understanding the superior sense of smell of the catfish, some anglers mix their own bait. Stink baits and cut baits are very popular. Cut bait is comprised of fish innards. The stink bait can be comprised of rotting fish, blood baits, chicken livers, or any other foul or strong smelling food substance.

There are several methods a catfish angler can use, but the two most popular are jug fishing and trotline fishing. Jug fishing is a practice commonly used when the angler wants to use a multitude of lines and hooks. The line, bearing one to five baited hooks, is attached to the jug, and then the jug can be lowered into the water. Once it is set up, the work is done. The angler can come by periodically to check the lines for any catch. Setting up a trotline can be a more complex process. The trotline is a long line with many shorter lines attached to it, and then each shorter line ends with a baited hook. Normally, a trotline is placed between buoys, and since its position is somewhat immobile, location is a key factor in this method.