Going out to fish for catfish is not difficult, but there is a right way of doing it. If you follow a few simple steps, you can be assured of a fine catch, every time. Now, keep in mind that the specific method you use will have to be a slight variation of these; every location is a bit different. Still, these techniques will at least give you a good starting point.

To rig your bait, loop a treble hook or bait holder from a line your preferred length: eighteen to twenty-four inches is best. Now, unlike some fishing, you do not want any movement of the bait. So, the best solution is to weight the rig so that it is kept still. You can also use a slip weight to keep the bait from moving. The kind of weight you use is not all that important, but it must slide on the line. The critical thing is that the fish should not feel any weight and thus guess this is not a real, natural food.

Next, there is the type of bait to be considered. Chicken liver is good, as is shrimp, which you can generally pick up at any grocery store. You will want to remove the shrimp’s skin and tail and just leave enough of a body so that it can go over a number six hook. Chicken liver is a bit more difficult to use, as you will need some pantyhose. Tear off a bit of liver; wrap it in pantyhose; leave a small tag out when you put it on the hook. Among other good choices for bait are: minnows, blood worms, night crawlers, snails, small fish, and even dough baits or catfish paste. A good tip to remember is this: nature makes the most appetizing baits.

To increase your day’s catch, chumming helps. This is really quite simple and amounts to just throwing small balls of catfish food into the water. Eventually, the catfish will be attracted to the area. Where the real trick comes in is in figuring out just the right mixture to use. That comes with experience and maybe consulting with local fishermen. Then just bait your hook with the same stuff and the catfish will be lining up to be caught.

Another item to consider is your tackle. Yes, technique is most important, but you also need the right equipment to land the catfish once it strikes. So, a firm six feet long pole with a spinning reel is best. Just make sure you have a secure grip on the rod. Next, there is the line. Select a heavy one so you can have more of a battle between you and the fish, without risk of the line breaking just before you land it. And, do not think that means buying the most expensive equipment. Look for sales, or even buy modest gear.

And then, here are some general pointers to always keep in mind: remove hooks with pliers; to be sure you get it all out. Watch out for the fins as they may be poisonous. If you slip you hand up to the fish’s belly from the tail, you can wrap your fingers around the fish and unhook the catfish without hurting yourself.