The Flathead catfish is one of the monsters of the catfish family. Due its great sporting prowess and good eating qualities it has been transported and are now established throughout the USA. Flathead catfishing is the pursuit of the monster fish as it is the easier of the giants, the other being the Blue, to catch mainly due to its great appetite. Named after their distinct long flat head, their oval-shaped eyes are flat, the lower jaw protrudes beyond their upper jaw and they come in various shades of mottled brown and yellow. They are true monster with catches in excess of hundred pounds being recorded in the larger rivers and lakes and it is thought that they can grow to exceed one hundred and fifty pounds.
The Flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris is known by many names including the shovelhead catfish, yellow catfish, mud catfish and Opelousas catfish.) It is a true native of the USA originating in the Mississippi and is now found across the nation. They prefer deep waters that have good hiding places such as fallen trees, logs, rocks and holes so they thrive in rivers and streams that are large and slow-moving and in lakes and ponds.
In some areas Flathead catfish are being called an intrusive species (i.e. a species that when introduced endangers the indigenous species of the area) and they have been known to destroy the populations of some fish in smaller bodies of water where they have been introduced.
OK enough about the fish's characteristics - how can we catch them? Flatheads prefer to seek their prey by sight and therefore feed throughout the day as much as they do at night. However they can be lured by flash lights at night coming to feed on the smaller fish that are attracted by the light.
During the day they will lie up in the bank holes or other hiding places such as log-jams, tree stumps and rocks. In large lakes and reservoirs, look for the big Flatheads in areas with lots of cover -- like submerged brush piles, fallen trees etc.. You will probably have to try several baits, but Flatheads definitely favor live baits, but will eat anything if it is easy for them. Although you should try a number of depths normally the bottom of the river or lake is the best place.
In rivers let your bait drift under overhanging edges of the bank and then holding for a while has proved to be an effective strategy. In lakes and ponds cast gently as close to the likely hiding places as possible and then hold as still for up to thirty minutes before reeling in the bait and then try another spot.
At night Flathead catfish will use the old channels of the reservoirs and lakes to journey to the shallows where they will feed on the small fish that gather there. Though you may need depth equipment to establish these channels they can be a very productive.
If you are after trophy fish there is be no better quarry than the Flathead catfish for sport, but as they grow larger their eating qualities definitely deteriorate.
Ben Field is a catfishing enthusiast and expert. For more information on Flathead catfishing, visit http://www.catfishingskills.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_A_Field
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
Monday, 27 June 2011
5 Things You Must Know About Using Catfishing Baits
Most fishing enthusiasts never consider how crucial their catfish baits are when heading out to the local fishing hole. If not appropriately handled, you could be wasting your time and effort trying to land a catfish. Whether fishing from the bank or the boat, it is important that you are using catfishing baits properly. There are plenty of ready-made baits available in the market these days and even some natural ones commonly available in the wild outdoors but if not used properly you are more likely to land pure frustration and not a fresh catfish.
So, here are the 5 things you must know to help you get the most out of your baits and make that big catch.
It all starts with timing
It is crucial to know and understand the best time of the day for catfishing. Technically, you can go catfishing at anytime of the day but for maximum reward for your effort I would recommend fishing early in the morning or late in the evening. Just like most animals, these species come out in the morning to hunt for food. They usually stay near the bottom of the river or lake in the day and come out again for food in evenings and night.
Use seasons and weather as baiting strategies.
Rainy days and overcast clouds are excellent times for to go catfishing. The rainclouds can create early morning like conditions, mid day and evening to look the same so you can enjoy catfishing all throughout the day. Catfishing is popular during the fall and spring when the water levels are high and the catfishes are highly active.
Keep the bait still
This may sound obvious but it is surprising how many beginners make this mistake. It is crucial that you keep your bait as stationary and still as possible. This will improve your chances of attracting catfishes into your bait. Ideally, you don't want the bait moving or bouncing. Be observant of the water current or something that sticks out of the water. To find out if there are fishes in the area, throw a fresh sad head. If you do not get a bite in the next thirty minutes, go find a new spot.
Find the hot spots.
You may have the best bait in the world; but if you don't position it in areas where the catfishes are located, it will just sit in water, lollygag and fall apart. Look for places where the catfishes will likely hide. If you are fishing on a creek or river, find a bend where there could be an overhang. Catfishes love to hang out in these areas as it offers them safety. They also commonly lurk behind deep holes and sunken logs. Follow water currents for you to spot deep channels. Learn more about the waterways before embarking on a fishing journey to know river entry points, alcoves and other areas where you can find these species.
Use the appropriate hooks.
Make sure the hook you are using isn't too small or too big for the cat that you are targeting. Trial and error would be a good approach. If the hook is too large, the catfish will not be able to get the hook in its mouth and will nibble around your bait. Using catfishing baits properly will ensure a highly productive catfishing trip.
John G Garrett is an avid Catfishing enthusiast and expert. For more expert tips on Using Catfishing Baits, visit http://www.howtocatchcatfishsecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_G_Garrett
So, here are the 5 things you must know to help you get the most out of your baits and make that big catch.
It all starts with timing
It is crucial to know and understand the best time of the day for catfishing. Technically, you can go catfishing at anytime of the day but for maximum reward for your effort I would recommend fishing early in the morning or late in the evening. Just like most animals, these species come out in the morning to hunt for food. They usually stay near the bottom of the river or lake in the day and come out again for food in evenings and night.
Use seasons and weather as baiting strategies.
Rainy days and overcast clouds are excellent times for to go catfishing. The rainclouds can create early morning like conditions, mid day and evening to look the same so you can enjoy catfishing all throughout the day. Catfishing is popular during the fall and spring when the water levels are high and the catfishes are highly active.
Keep the bait still
This may sound obvious but it is surprising how many beginners make this mistake. It is crucial that you keep your bait as stationary and still as possible. This will improve your chances of attracting catfishes into your bait. Ideally, you don't want the bait moving or bouncing. Be observant of the water current or something that sticks out of the water. To find out if there are fishes in the area, throw a fresh sad head. If you do not get a bite in the next thirty minutes, go find a new spot.
Find the hot spots.
You may have the best bait in the world; but if you don't position it in areas where the catfishes are located, it will just sit in water, lollygag and fall apart. Look for places where the catfishes will likely hide. If you are fishing on a creek or river, find a bend where there could be an overhang. Catfishes love to hang out in these areas as it offers them safety. They also commonly lurk behind deep holes and sunken logs. Follow water currents for you to spot deep channels. Learn more about the waterways before embarking on a fishing journey to know river entry points, alcoves and other areas where you can find these species.
Use the appropriate hooks.
Make sure the hook you are using isn't too small or too big for the cat that you are targeting. Trial and error would be a good approach. If the hook is too large, the catfish will not be able to get the hook in its mouth and will nibble around your bait. Using catfishing baits properly will ensure a highly productive catfishing trip.
John G Garrett is an avid Catfishing enthusiast and expert. For more expert tips on Using Catfishing Baits, visit http://www.howtocatchcatfishsecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_G_Garrett
Friday, 24 June 2011
5 Things You Must Know About Using Catfishing Baits
Most fishing enthusiasts never consider how crucial their catfish baits are when heading out to the local fishing hole. If not appropriately handled, you could be wasting your time and effort trying to land a catfish. Whether fishing from the bank or the boat, it is important that you are using catfishing baits properly. There are plenty of ready-made baits available in the market these days and even some natural ones commonly available in the wild outdoors but if not used properly you are more likely to land pure frustration and not a fresh catfish.
So, here are the 5 things you must know to help you get the most out of your baits and make that big catch.
It all starts with timing
It is crucial to know and understand the best time of the day for catfishing. Technically, you can go catfishing at anytime of the day but for maximum reward for your effort I would recommend fishing early in the morning or late in the evening. Just like most animals, these species come out in the morning to hunt for food. They usually stay near the bottom of the river or lake in the day and come out again for food in evenings and night.
Use seasons and weather as baiting strategies.
Rainy days and overcast clouds are excellent times for to go catfishing. The rainclouds can create early morning like conditions, mid day and evening to look the same so you can enjoy catfishing all throughout the day. Catfishing is popular during the fall and spring when the water levels are high and the catfishes are highly active.
Keep the bait still
This may sound obvious but it is surprising how many beginners make this mistake. It is crucial that you keep your bait as stationary and still as possible. This will improve your chances of attracting catfishes into your bait. Ideally, you don't want the bait moving or bouncing. Be observant of the water current or something that sticks out of the water. To find out if there are fishes in the area, throw a fresh sad head. If you do not get a bite in the next thirty minutes, go find a new spot.
Find the hot spots.
You may have the best bait in the world; but if you don't position it in areas where the catfishes are located, it will just sit in water, lollygag and fall apart. Look for places where the catfishes will likely hide. If you are fishing on a creek or river, find a bend where there could be an overhang. Catfishes love to hang out in these areas as it offers them safety. They also commonly lurk behind deep holes and sunken logs. Follow water currents for you to spot deep channels. Learn more about the waterways before embarking on a fishing journey to know river entry points, alcoves and other areas where you can find these species.
Use the appropriate hooks.
Make sure the hook you are using isn't too small or too big for the cat that you are targeting. Trial and error would be a good approach. If the hook is too large, the catfish will not be able to get the hook in its mouth and will nibble around your bait. Using catfishing baits properly will ensure a highly productive catfishing trip.
John G Garrett is an avid Catfishing enthusiast and expert. For more expert tips on Using Catfishing Baits, visit http://www.howtocatchcatfishsecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_G_Garrett
So, here are the 5 things you must know to help you get the most out of your baits and make that big catch.
It all starts with timing
It is crucial to know and understand the best time of the day for catfishing. Technically, you can go catfishing at anytime of the day but for maximum reward for your effort I would recommend fishing early in the morning or late in the evening. Just like most animals, these species come out in the morning to hunt for food. They usually stay near the bottom of the river or lake in the day and come out again for food in evenings and night.
Use seasons and weather as baiting strategies.
Rainy days and overcast clouds are excellent times for to go catfishing. The rainclouds can create early morning like conditions, mid day and evening to look the same so you can enjoy catfishing all throughout the day. Catfishing is popular during the fall and spring when the water levels are high and the catfishes are highly active.
Keep the bait still
This may sound obvious but it is surprising how many beginners make this mistake. It is crucial that you keep your bait as stationary and still as possible. This will improve your chances of attracting catfishes into your bait. Ideally, you don't want the bait moving or bouncing. Be observant of the water current or something that sticks out of the water. To find out if there are fishes in the area, throw a fresh sad head. If you do not get a bite in the next thirty minutes, go find a new spot.
Find the hot spots.
You may have the best bait in the world; but if you don't position it in areas where the catfishes are located, it will just sit in water, lollygag and fall apart. Look for places where the catfishes will likely hide. If you are fishing on a creek or river, find a bend where there could be an overhang. Catfishes love to hang out in these areas as it offers them safety. They also commonly lurk behind deep holes and sunken logs. Follow water currents for you to spot deep channels. Learn more about the waterways before embarking on a fishing journey to know river entry points, alcoves and other areas where you can find these species.
Use the appropriate hooks.
Make sure the hook you are using isn't too small or too big for the cat that you are targeting. Trial and error would be a good approach. If the hook is too large, the catfish will not be able to get the hook in its mouth and will nibble around your bait. Using catfishing baits properly will ensure a highly productive catfishing trip.
John G Garrett is an avid Catfishing enthusiast and expert. For more expert tips on Using Catfishing Baits, visit http://www.howtocatchcatfishsecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_G_Garrett
Thursday, 23 June 2011
Which Catfishing Bait To Use
With most fish the best bait is whatever they feed on naturally but the catfish are truly omnivorous and scavengers and they eat almost anything. The range of successful catfishing bait is amazing from live fish bait through worms, small frogs to marshmallows, hotdogs, unscented ivory soap (I didn't believe this but I can assure you it is successful) and some very strange, very smelly home-made concoctions.
The catfish has an array of senses to detect food from good eyesight (despite rumours to the contrary), excellent taste, smell and hearing and they use all the senses to detect food and warn of danger. The expert angler will make use of all of these catfish senses to get the fish to notice the bait that is being offered.
To list all the baits that have been used to catch catfish would fill a library of books but here are a few suggestions from the list of most successful.
The old fashioned worm, either night crawlers or the garden variety sometimes appears to be the food that is top of the catfish menu, but other times when they are not interested. Overall the worm, which is always readily available, is excellent catfish bait.
Shrimp or small prawns especially if they are soaked in fish oil tempt catfish. If you remove the prawns from their shell gives a better result. (Cut large prawns in half) These can be obtained easily from the local sea food store either frozen or fresh work very well.
Home-made bait that is a favourite is peanut butter and cornflakes mixed together and then formed into balls which can be fixed onto the hook. The butter releases oils into the water which the catfish detect and are attracted. An advantage with this bait is that small fish do not appear to be able to suck it from the hook. Another successful bait is sweet corn. Put a piece of sweet corn on each point of a treble hook then wrap bread around it. The smell of the sweet corn attracts the catfish and the bread will hide the hook from reluctant fish that have been caught and released too often. Cheese, the smellier the better, also hits the spot in attracting catfish.
A big advantage of home-made bait is the fun it generates in using your imagination to come up with original successful recipes. Not only for you but the children take huge delight in the designing and mixing the bait. And you should see the absolute joy when one of their recipes is successful and catches a catfish large or small. Involving children in the sport ensures that it becomes more popular and goes from strength to strength. And the catfish not being a picky eater and therefore easily attracted plays an important part in this growth. So long last the home-made bait.
Ben Field is a catfishing enthusiast and expert. For more information on catfishing bait, visit http://www.catfishingskills.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_A_Field
The catfish has an array of senses to detect food from good eyesight (despite rumours to the contrary), excellent taste, smell and hearing and they use all the senses to detect food and warn of danger. The expert angler will make use of all of these catfish senses to get the fish to notice the bait that is being offered.
To list all the baits that have been used to catch catfish would fill a library of books but here are a few suggestions from the list of most successful.
The old fashioned worm, either night crawlers or the garden variety sometimes appears to be the food that is top of the catfish menu, but other times when they are not interested. Overall the worm, which is always readily available, is excellent catfish bait.
Shrimp or small prawns especially if they are soaked in fish oil tempt catfish. If you remove the prawns from their shell gives a better result. (Cut large prawns in half) These can be obtained easily from the local sea food store either frozen or fresh work very well.
Home-made bait that is a favourite is peanut butter and cornflakes mixed together and then formed into balls which can be fixed onto the hook. The butter releases oils into the water which the catfish detect and are attracted. An advantage with this bait is that small fish do not appear to be able to suck it from the hook. Another successful bait is sweet corn. Put a piece of sweet corn on each point of a treble hook then wrap bread around it. The smell of the sweet corn attracts the catfish and the bread will hide the hook from reluctant fish that have been caught and released too often. Cheese, the smellier the better, also hits the spot in attracting catfish.
A big advantage of home-made bait is the fun it generates in using your imagination to come up with original successful recipes. Not only for you but the children take huge delight in the designing and mixing the bait. And you should see the absolute joy when one of their recipes is successful and catches a catfish large or small. Involving children in the sport ensures that it becomes more popular and goes from strength to strength. And the catfish not being a picky eater and therefore easily attracted plays an important part in this growth. So long last the home-made bait.
Ben Field is a catfishing enthusiast and expert. For more information on catfishing bait, visit http://www.catfishingskills.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_A_Field
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