Homemade Catfish Traps

Certain catfish must move in order to breathe.

Fish traps, in many states, are allowed only for certain types such as catfish, and in some states are even banned for these fish. When you do use a catfish trap, make sure to check on it often. Certain catfish, such as channel catfish, must move to be able to breathe. If the trap is left too long, the fish could die.

Things You'll Need

• Metal snips
• Zip ties
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Purchase wire mesh for the cage. It doesn't have to be a fine mesh. Large holes are preferable so that smaller fish such as minnow can escape the trap. Get a large piece of mesh that will cover all the needed dimensions. You need two pieces that are 4 feet long and 2 feet wide for the top and bottom of the cage. You also need two pieces 4 feet by 1 foot for the two sides. And you will need two pieces 2 feet by 1 foot for the back and front of the cage. A 4-foot-by-6-foot section will take care of the top, bottom and sides, and a 1-foot-by-2-foot-by-5-foot section will take care of the back, front and trap.

2. Snip the mesh to the lengths you need. With the 1-by-2 section that goes on the front of the trap, also snip a hole about 10 inches round in the middle. This is for the opening in the trap.

3. Assemble the sides of the trap, using the zip ties to hold them together. Put the back on as well to create stability. Cut the ends off the zip ties to make a cleaner look.

4. Cut the last 1-by-2 section in half, making it 1-by-1. Roll it up so that it is about 10 inches round. Secure it on one end with a couple of zip ties so that it doesn't unroll on that end. Place it up against the front trap panel that has the hole in the middle. Use zip ties to secure the rolled up end to the opening.

5. Work on the rolled mesh that you just attached to the front panel. Adjust the rest of the rolled sheet so that the other end of the roll is only about 7 inches round. This will create a funnel look to the rolled metal. Secure the rolled section with more zip ties and cut off the ends. Cut off the excess wire mesh with the snips.

6. Attach the front panel to the cage with zip ties. Use whatever bait inside that you feel will attract catfish. You can tie a rope to the cage to help lower and remove it from the water.

Tips & Warnings

• The size of the trap's funnel will determine how big the catfish you trap will be. If they cannot get into the trap, they cannot be caught. Adjust the size of the opening accordingly.

References

• Outdoor Life: How to Use Catfish Traps