The catfish is the largest predator fish that can be caught in France. This catfish fishing is gaining popularity, and more and more fishermen are getting involved. You might now be wondering, how to start catfish fishing in the best way possible, and that's what we're going to explore.
As a challenging adversary offering intense battles, you will need suitable equipment that can withstand the strain.
We may then refer to rods, reels, and accessories such as a buoy, a hook, a fish finder, and even a boat depending on the technique you wish to adopt.
It's also necessary to know the areas where this fish is found and to adjust your gear accordingly, depending on the fishing depth, whether at the surface or near the bottom.
Last but not least, you will quickly realize that catfish fishing is accessible even to beginner anglers. Similar to trout, pike, carp, or zander stalking, a bit of patience is needed to master it.
Within this article, we will discuss the different techniques you can use to hunt this predator, and we will conclude with a selection of the ideal gear for beginners.
Knowing the different catfish fishing techniques
Natural bait fishing
You can decide to stalk this species using natural bait such as worms, which are very effective. You will need to select large earthworms otherwise you risk not attracting the catfish sufficiently.
The rig will involve attaching a large weight and a treble hook, allowing you to skewer several worms at once, increasing the overall attractivity.
If live bait fishing is what you're after, then our article catfish fishing with natural baits should guide you on this issue.
Lure fishing
Many brands specializing in this fish hunt have developed numerous ranges of ultra-effective artificial lures.
Although it is often advised not to fish for the largest specimens with lures, new technologies enable the creation of models that are increasingly adapted to fishing conditions. We recommend you also read our article which lure for catfish fishing?, detailing all the specifics of this technique.
Wavy spoons and jointed soft lures are among the best-sellers that will have no trouble helping you catch fish.
You can also opt for suitable crankbaits, or all sorts of hybrid lures, each more effective than the last.
Clonk fishing
This type of fishing is also very popular with experts in the field, albeit requiring advanced electronic gear such as a sonar.
So, it will be possible to find the perfect spot to hit the water surface with your clonk, aiming to bring the target specimen to the surface.
Indeed, this tool allows you to reproduce potent sounds that prompt the catfish to strike. Perfect for the deep areas where the specimens are often positioned on the bottom.
Fireball fishing
If you have a boat or a float tube, you can practice this vertical fishing method, which is incredibly effective. Our article Which float tube for catfish fishing? will provide you with more information on this topic. It simply involves presenting a live bait placed on a weight and a hook directly from your boat.
The benefit of this technique is that if you are a bit handy, you can make your rig and achieve the perfect combination adapted to your needs.
The equipment for successful catfish fishing
Now that you're more familiar with the techniques you can employ, it's time to select your gear to start fishing as soon as possible. Do not overlook the knowledge of spots and the most opportune times for a great session. Our article When to fish for catfish in France? will help you understand all the nuances.
It comes as no surprise to anyone, the power of this fish requires robust equipment at all points.
The catfish rod
First of all, you will need to select a rod compatible with a round drum, or a model compatible with spinning reels. Also, be aware that there are rods capable of accommodating both types of reels.
A Casting rod will be preferred for a buoy technique, where you won't need to cast, and can largely count on the resistance in such a model.
However, it is recommended to have a boat, as these rods are not suitable for casting at all. Vertical techniques will also be favored, especially since you can easily fish with one hand, leaving the other free for other things.
It goes without saying, a spinning model would thus have an advantage in terms of weight and its ability to cast over very long distances. This model is therefore the best choice for shore anglers who do not have access to a boat.
Note that all techniques can obviously be performed with either type, as the leading brands today provide highly versatile models.
Here are three rods that we can recommend to beginners, as well as for more experienced anglers:
The catfish reel
The reel you choose should be able to handle several tens of kilograms easily.
We would recommend specialist brands with ideal features.
In particular, a sturdy mechanism with a usually reinforced axle, a brake system capable of facing the most violent combat, a large capacity spool for accommodating the large braid, and a rather large handle for optimal comfort during combat.
By paying attention to these different points, you will almost certainly make the right choice.
However, here are some important data that could assist you in your selection: a 5000/6000 size will be perfect if you want to fish with lures. The 8000 to 10000 sizes will be perfect for a fireball technique or other live bait fishing.
Do not choose a size under 5000. True, they will resist for a small week of fishing, but your parts will wear out extremely quickly to the point of breaking after a few outings.
Of course, you will need to meticulously maintain your reel using oil and cleaning, which will prolong its lifespan and your fishing performance.
Here are the models we recommend for beginner or less experienced anglers:
The catfish lure
You're almost ready, all that's missing is your bait, if you've decided to fish with a lure.
It's always the same pattern, you will have to attract this large fish with very large lure models.
You can opt for large varieties of soft lures, where you'll have to select sizes from 15 to over 25 cm to attract the largest specimens.
Swimbaits are a range that is increasingly developed, crankbaits will allow you to fish in a linear or vertical manner.
Spoons are also a reliable choice, which will allow you to fish all other predators; whether rotating or enduring, their versatile range of action and ease of use is ideal for beginners.
Lastly, there are octopuses, a very modern technique which aims to mimic catfish behavior. By producing numerous sounds, predators won't resist attacking for long.
Here is our selection for a beginner angler:
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