Lakes are the most popular locale in the US for targeting whiskered critters, known as catfish. We will go examine all aspects of lake fishing for the sometimes elusive cat by looking at what time the catfish bite is most active, what spots you should target, and we will also suggest the type of gear to use on your next lake catfishing trip.
Now, lets go find some lake cats!
What Time Is Best for Catfishing?
Honestly, there is no “best” time for catfishing; indeed, you can fish for catfish day or night. Although, I will say the most success catfishing is at the crack of dawn or in the late evening. These fish are crepuscular in nature, foraging early and late, and will often come towards the surface in the evening to feed on baitfish.
Additionally, new catfish anglers also wonder what the best time of year is to catch catfish. Typically, fishing either pre- or post-spawn for the best results. Although, it is possible to catch catfish year-round.
How to Catch Catfish in Lakes
Before you start catching catfish in lakes, there are some things you need to consider. For example, you want to make sure you have the correct gear, bait, and targeting of the right spots. In addition, you’ll also want to look at all of the different catfishing techniques and rigs and choose the ones that work best for you.
Proper Gear
First off, having the correct gear is very important to your success. So, here is a list of starter gear for catfishing in lakes:
Proper Bait
Next, you want to make sure you have some smelly catfish bait. I have found the most success when using live bait or cut bait for blue and flathead catfish. For example, I like to use threadfin or gizzard shad, bluegill, or chunks of carp as bait. However, if you would like to target eating-sized catfish, any manufactured or homemade stink bait will suffice.
Lake Catfish Hotspots
You are ready to locate some prime catfishing spots. In lakes, catfish, especially flatheads, like to bed down undercover. Also, other types of catfish like to used these types of areas to ambush prey fish when it comes time to feed. Here are some examples of areas in lakes that provide cover to catfish:
- Standing timber
- Rock riprap
- Underwater humps
- Log debris
- Fallen timber
- Submerged creek channels
On top of fishing near cover, other locations in lakes where you can typically find catfish are:
- Deepwater channels
- Main water channels
- Steep bluffs and banks
- Coves
When in doubt, you can always break out your sonar. Or, you can try drift fishing or even setting jug lines. Drifting and jugging will enhance your coverage, ultimately increasing your chance of catching big cats.
Choosing a Catfishing Method That Works for You
You can choose many methods for catching catfish. Here is a list of different techniques you can use to catch catfish in lakes:
- Juglines
- Limb lines
- Bank poles
- Trotlines
- Rod and reel
Keep in mind, some of these methods may not be legal in your local waters. So, it is always best to check with your state’s conservation department.
Catfishing Rigs for Lake Fishing
Here is a list of great catfishing rigs you can try next time you go lake fishing:
- 3-way rig
- Slip-bobber rig
- Slip-sinker rig
- Santee-rig
- Double drop rig
Out of these five rigs, my favorite ones for drift fishing are the Santee rig and double drop rig. I like them because they’re quick and easy to rig up in advance. Or, if you’re anchor fishing or bank fishing, you can’t go wrong with either the slip-bobber or slip-sinker rig.
Most Proven Lake Techniques
There is no right or wrong answer when picking a method to use. So, when deciding which of these techniques to use, choose the one that will bring you the most joy. For instance, if you want to cover more water, try concentrating your jugs in coves or along steep bluffs. Or, if setting jugs sounds too tiresome, try drifting along deep water channels, using one of the five rigs we listed above.
What’s your favorite lake to go catfishing on? Which of these catfishing techniques are you going to try out? Have a great time catfishing your nearest lake, and tight lines everyone!