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Channel Catfish fishing

Ictalurus punctatus
Channel Catfish

About Channel Catfish

An adaptable whiskered bottom feeder. Smells out bait in warm water, most active at night.

Typical size: Usually 1-4 kg, big fish over 7 kg. Record (approx.): ≈ 26 kg.

Season, time and habitat

Best season
Jun-Aug
Best time
Dusk, night
Habitat
Lake, River

Lures and baits that work

Ledger bait Ledger bait Fish the bait still on the bottom with a sinker. Common for bottom feeders; watch the rod tip for gentle bites.
Deadbait Deadbait Set a whole or half baitfish on the bottom or under a float. Deadly for pike in winter and for burbot and eel at night.

Find waters where Channel Catfish is biting now

Common questions

When is the best time to catch Channel Catfish?

Channel Catfish fishing is usually best around Jun-Aug. The best windows in the day are usually dusk, night.

What lures and baits work for Channel Catfish?

Effective methods for Channel Catfish include Ledger bait and Deadbait.

Where can you catch Channel Catfish?

Channel Catfish is most often found in lake, river. Napp shows the nearest waters and the live odds on the bite right now.