A Beginner's Guide to Spinning for Catfish: How to Fish and What Bait to Use

Catfish angling has been a favorite pastime for many anglers around the world due to their fighting spirit and delicious flesh. Although catfish can be caught using various techniques, spinning is a popular and effective method. If you are a beginner looking to try your luck with catfish, this guide will provide you with the basics of spinning for catfish.

Firstly, it is important to have the right equipment. A medium-heavy spinning rod and reel combo, typically around 7-9 feet in length, is ideal for catfish angling. This type of setup offers both the strength and flexibility needed to handle the powerful strikes and fights catfish are known for. It is also essential to have a high-quality fishing line, preferably a braided line with a test strength of around 20-30 pounds, as catfish can put up a strong resistance.

Now that you have the right gear, let’s move on to the fishing technique. Spinning for catfish involves casting your bait into the water and then retrieving it to entice the catfish to bite. Start by locating a suitable fishing spot, such as river bends, deep pools, or underwater structures, where catfish often hide. Once you have found a spot, make a long cast, allowing your bait to reach the desired area.

When it comes to bait selection for catfish, you have several options. Experienced catfish anglers often opt for natural baits such as chicken liver, shad, or cut bait, which can be very effective. However, if you’re a beginner, I recommend starting with artificial baits known as soft plastics. Soft plastic baits imitate a variety of natural prey, including baitfish and bottom-dwelling creatures that catfish commonly feed on.

There are numerous types of soft plastic baits that work well for catfish spinning. One popular option is the soft plastic worm, specifically those with a paddle or curly tail design. These baits have a realistic action in the water, which entices the catfish to bite. Another common soft plastic bait is the tube jig, which mimics a small fish and can be very effective for targeting larger catfish.

To use soft plastic baits, simply thread them onto a suitable jig head or weighted hook, ensuring they are securely attached. Cast your bait out and let it sink to the bottom, then start your retrieve by slowly reeling in the line while occasionally imparting twitches or pauses to mimic the movements of live prey. This technique is known as “jigging” and can trigger aggressive strikes from hungry catfish.

It is crucial to remain patient and persistent while spinning for catfish. Catfish are known to be nocturnal feeders, so fishing during low-light hours, such as early morning or late evening, can often yield better results. Additionally, be prepared to experiment with different retrieval speeds, depths, and bait colors to figure out what works best on a particular day.

Remember, catfish can be challenging to handle due to their sharp spines and slimy skin. Always use caution when handling a catfish, and make sure to have a pair of fishing gloves and a fishing net handy to facilitate safe catch and release.

In summary, spinning for catfish can be an exciting and rewarding experience for beginners. With the right equipment and bait, along with proper fishing techniques, you can increase your chances of hooking into a catfish. So, grab your spinning gear, head to your favorite catfish spot, and enjoy the thrill of reeling in these impressive fish.