Catfish are opportunistic feeders that will readily consume a variety of baits. A slow and lazy fish it will typically scavenge for its food, usually residing in sheltered locations, such as holes or amongst sunken dead trees, and normally hunting at night. Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular and effective baits to use to target them...
Worms
Worms are a classic choice for catfish. Both Dendrobaenas and lobworms are excellent options, and a big bunch of worms on a hair rig can be highly effective, whether presented on the bottom or popped up.
While worms can be effective, they may attract smaller species, so consider using them in areas with fewer nuisance fish, or try bigger hookbaits or even artificial worms if you must use worms on your water.
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Deadbaits and Livebaits
Deadbaits that mimic the natural food sources of catfish are the best hookbaits. Roach, and Rudd are excellent choices also consider lamprey and eel sections. Puncturing the bait to increase blood leakage can make it even more attractive. Smelly and oily seabaits like mackerel, sprats, herring, and squid are also effective options.
Livebaits are highly attractive. The vibrations emitted by a tethered or suspended livebait will attract catfish, choosing the dominant species in the fishery like silverfish, (roach, rudd, and bream) are good choices. Remember to check fishery rules regarding the use of livebaits before fishing.
CATFISH ARE MOST ACTIVE AT NIGHT, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE BEST FISHING BIVVIES.
Pellets
Pellets have become a popular choice for catfish fishing. Big, oily pellets, including catfish-specific pellets and halibut pellets in large sizes, are selective choices as they are too big for other species. Halibuts pellets have accounted for some big catfish captures and are definitely a bait you need to include in your bag!
Look for those with high oil content and that don't crumble easily. Be aware that excessive use of high oil pellets can negatively impact water quality so always check with fishery rules before using high oil pellets.
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Boilies
Boilies offer a vast array of options for catfish fishing. Consider more smelly fishy type flavours. Customising your boilies with smelly oils and flavours can make them even more attractive. The better ones for catfishing tend to contain a fishmeal base mix, as they have a very fishy undertone to them and take added flavours on very well. Consider doubling or trebling up on boilies in heavily populated waters to avoid other species present.
ADDING THE BEST LIQUIDS AND ADDITIVES WILL MAKE YOUR BAIT MORE POTENT AND ATTRACTIVE TO CATFISH.
Leeches
Leeches are one of the most exclusive baits for catfish as they are rarely eaten by other species. Horse leeches are a common UK species, and can be collected from drains, canals, and ponds but medicinal or blood leeches are more effective and popular choices.
These leeches are commercially farmed for medicinal purposes and the larger and older leeches that are no longer viable for reproduction can be purchased for catfish fishing. Leeches natural movement and strong scent make them a highly attractive bait.
A SET OF THE BEST BITE ALARMS WILL ENSURE YOU NEVER MISS A RUN WHEN OUT TARGETING BIG CATFISH!
