Things You'll Need:
- Fishing tackle
- Stink bait
- Sunblock and hat
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Step 1
Gather your equipment and find a shady spot along the shore. If you are on a boat head for deep water and drop anchor a safe distance away from sunken trees or other spots that can offer catfish cover. Get comfortable and be ready for a wait. Make sure you have some protection from the sun.
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Step 2
Set up your rig. A 20-pound test line is good for most catfish. Some larger rivers and lakes may harbor some monsters requiring a 50-pound test line. Weight the end of your line and don't use a bobber or float on the line, Catfish are bottom feeders and you want your bait to sink.
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Step 3
Make sure you hook is on the line with a solid knot and load it up with stink bait or chicken livers. Bluegill heads can work, too. The key is to make sure your bait has a smell that will grab the fish's undivided attention.
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Step 4
Cast your line and wait. Keep the line taught and recast it if it you feel you aren't getting the attention you need from the fish.
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Step 5
Move your pole from side to side slowly as you reel in your catch. Quickly snapping the pole back or in any particular direction can break your line or your pole. Move slowly and try to wear the fish out. Just don't let up the tension.
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Step 6
Decide to keep or return the fish. If the day ends and you haven't caught anything try again with different bait, just don't lose hope. Sometimes the fish just aren't biting.
