How to Build Catfish Traps

Catching catfish is an honored tradition for many expert and recreational fishermen. But you don't need fancy traps to catch your own. For a simple catfish trap that you can make in about an hour, gather a few simple supplies and start planning your next outing on the water.

Things You'll Need

• Mesh wire
• Wire cutters
• Extra wire or durable twine
• Rope
• Gloves
• Catfish bait
• Heavy rock

Instructions

1. Purchase mesh wire that is malleable enough to bend into a box form. Make sure the mesh has small enough holes that will not allow catfish to squeeze past. Keep the openings of the mesh or gaps at 1 inch or less.

2. Decide where and how you will use the trap. If you're going to use it in deep water and wish to catch large catfish, you need to plan the size of your trap accordingly. If you're using a trap in shallow water, you'll need a small trap with less mesh wiring.

3. Use wire cutters to cut six uniform pieces of mesh wiring to construct your box-shaped trap. You may choose to cut four pieces the same length and two pieces shorter. The shorter pieces can be used on each end to create a rectangular-shaped trap. This might be useful depending on the depth of the water.

4. Tie off the sides of your newly cut mesh wire with durable twine or stray wire scraps. Leave one side open to create an entry point for your catfish. It may help to roll the wire down on top of itself to secure the edges. If you use twine, make sure it will hold up against sharp wire and wet conditions.

5. Bend a funnel shape into the mesh wire on the remaining open side. Make sure it's large enough for a catfish to swim into. You want it to taper down into the box so the fish can get in but not get back out. Secure the funnel piece in place with extra wire.

6. Take your wire cutters and cut out a small square on one side of the cage and leave the top of the square intact with the trap. Make sure you don't cut the square on the side with the funnel. Bend back the new trapdoor to ensure you can open it with ease. Use extra wire or twine to secure the bottom and sides of the door to ensure the catfish will not escape. If the door is too difficult to bend back and forth, you can cut through the attached top piece and tie it off with twine or wire.

7. Place catfish bait inside the trap. You can choose from store-bought bait, dog food, chicken livers or cheese. Include a rock to help weigh down the trap once it's in the water.

8. Tie a long rope to the top of the trap. Submerge the new trap into the water and tie off to your boat or dock to keep it from being pulled away. Check your trap at least every 12 hours to ensure a fish won't swim in and die. Once you catch a fish, remove the trap door and release into a bucket of water.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear durable gloves to prevent cutting your fingers and hands on the wire.

• Some states prohibit catfish traps. Check your local fishing laws and ordinances before starting. Large catfish can move a trap and drag it away. Be sure to anchor your trap properly.