Q&A for How to Catch a Catfish

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  • Question
    How can I find the fishing license requirements for my region?
    Kathy Sparrow, MA
    Fishing Instructor
    Kathy Sparrow is a fly-fishing instructor and adventurer at heart. Kathy is the co-founder and previous manager of the Kingfisher Inn, a fly-fishing lodge on the Lower Laguna Madre in Texas. She is the author of "On the Mother Lagoon: Flyfishing and the Spiritual Journey" and "The Whispered Teachings of Grandmother Trout” a novel conveying the feminine perspective of fly fishing. Kathy is also a Certified Canfield Trainer in Canfield Methodologies. She guides individuals through the process of embracing change by expressing confidence, awareness, and courage through the tools of writing, fly fishing, and intentional conversation. She has a MA in English with an emphasis in Literature and Cultural Studies from the University of Texas-Pan American.
    Fishing Instructor
    Expert Answer
    Search Google for fishing license plus the name of the state. In most places, you can get your license immediately. A lot of states also have a phone app, so your fishing license is digital, which makes it easy.
  • Question
    What are some of the most common mistakes people make when getting prepared to fish?
    Kathy Sparrow, MA
    Fishing Instructor
    Kathy Sparrow is a fly-fishing instructor and adventurer at heart. Kathy is the co-founder and previous manager of the Kingfisher Inn, a fly-fishing lodge on the Lower Laguna Madre in Texas. She is the author of "On the Mother Lagoon: Flyfishing and the Spiritual Journey" and "The Whispered Teachings of Grandmother Trout” a novel conveying the feminine perspective of fly fishing. Kathy is also a Certified Canfield Trainer in Canfield Methodologies. She guides individuals through the process of embracing change by expressing confidence, awareness, and courage through the tools of writing, fly fishing, and intentional conversation. She has a MA in English with an emphasis in Literature and Cultural Studies from the University of Texas-Pan American.
    Fishing Instructor
    Expert Answer
    Probably not preparing for the weather. It's going to rain sometimes. Always keep rain gear ready. Having backup equipment is also really important. Make sure you have two rods with you because things happen. Polarized glasses are an absolute must. Those allow you to see into the water. Mindset is the other thing to prepare. Go with a sense of adventure. Know that you're probably going to make mistakes, we all do. You might not catch fish and that's okay but you're going to learn something in the process and if you do catch fish, that's a bonus.
  • Question
    What type of bait should I use?
    Community Answer
    Cut bait is best for catfish; artificial baits have a weird scent to which catfish are not attracted. Catch small fish in the area you are fishing for catfish in, and cut them up into bite-size pieces. Cast out and let the bait sit on the bottom.
  • Question
    What is the smallest catfish I can legally keep?
    Community Answer
    It depends on local laws. Your best bet is to contact your local Fisheries/Wildlife office and ask. They'll more than happily provide you with the exact information for your area.
  • Question
    How can I catch a catfish with worms?
    Community Answer
    Night crawlers work better than smaller worms. Fish close to the bottom of the lake or stream.
  • Question
    Can I use shrimp for catfish bait?
    Community Answer
    Yes, almost any kind of pond catfish or big lake cats will go for a shrimp. Although some lakes may not let you, check the lake/pond rules first.
  • Question
    How long after a bite should I set the hook?
    Community Answer
    Give it a few seconds to make sure the hook is in its mouth, and then set the hook.
  • Question
    Can I go fishing for catfish near rivers?
    Community Answer
    Yes, as there are many catfish holes near most rivers. (How successful you'll be really depends on where you live though.)
  • Question
    How do I noodle for catfish?
    Community Answer
    Check local laws and regulations first. To noodle for catfish, you are gong to want gloves, as your hands and arms could get hurt during noodling. Go out to a lake or pond or other body of water. You are going to wade in the water until you feel a hole with your feet. You now want to dive down and stick your hand in the hole (It may not always be a catfish, be forewarned). You are going to want to wait for the catfish to bite your hand and arm and not let go. Then, have your buddy pull you up. Always take a friend, for safety.
  • Question
    Do catfish swim toward light?
    Community Answer
    No. They almost avoid light, and thrive in dense cover.
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