Requirements for spinning gear for catfish
Catching catfish with a spinning rod can be impossible if you have chosen the wrong gear. Usually, when fishing, spinners come across medium-sized fish. Medium catfish are caught using bottom baits using the jig method. Accordingly, spinning rods cannot always be used when catching catfish. If we take the size of an average catfish, then it can be easily handled with a spinning rod designed for pike or pike perch. But the leading option will require a special form and reel, not to mention the spinning rod itself. If you want to catch a large specimen, pay detailed attention to every little detail and all the elements of the equipment. Not only the high characteristics of the spinning rod are taken into account here. This means a reel, fishing line, cord, hooks, bait, etc. Each of these elements plays an important role when catching big catfish.
In our reservoirs, catfish are definitely the leader in terms of their strength characteristics. This fish is not afraid of thick fishing lines and can cope with any fishing rod. It is better to choose spinning rods of high strength. Fishing on the shore involves the use of “rods” up to three meters long. In this way, it is possible to ensure maximum casting range (in the area of riverbeds this is quite important).
When fishing for catfish from a boat, you will need a catfish rod that is two meters long. In less than ideal circumstances, this is an excellent alternative that allows easy retrieving and easy fishing. It is better to choose multiplier reels. They have decent power and are very reliable. Of course, their cost is high. Yes, and you first need to learn how to use a multiplier reel.
There are also inertia-free ones, but they are not as wear-resistant, although they are easier to control. The strength of the fishing line is also important; it must cope with a large level of load. In addition, some spinners use monofilament thread. Its advantages include sufficient stretchability, and it copes well with jerking fish. But if you use a jig, you will lose sensitivity, and the fishing results may be disastrous.
Gear selection
To catch catfish, you need to use the right equipment.
The spinning rod must be strong enough to catch large fish. It’s clear that catching a catfish weighing 100 kg is a realistic but highly unlikely task, but obtaining trophies of about 8–15 kg is quite achievable. On the other hand, since catfish need to be fished out for a very long time (literally for a very long time, it can take an hour or even more), the tackle must be quite flexible.
For a spinning rod for catfish, the recommended rod length depends on the method of fishing. When fishing from a boat, it is enough to choose rods with a length of 2.1 to 2.4 m. This size will be ideal in cramped fishing conditions from a boat. Fishing from the shore will require a rod from 2.4 to 3.2 m. In the case of long casts, the length of the spinning rod can exceed 3.6 m.
The choice of test depends on the type of bait used. In the case of using heavy baits (weighing about 60 g), rods with a test weight of 40 to 120 g, belonging to the “heavy” class, are selected. If the weight of the bait exceeds 70 g, it is recommended to use extra-heavy class rods.
Rods with lower test ratings are used for catching catfish weighing less than 20 kg.
When choosing a scale, you should adhere to a rational combination of sensitivity and rigidity. Rods with too fast action are not able to resist the strong jerks of catfish. A system that is too slow does not have enough sensitivity, and you may miss the moment of hooking.
The recommended action is medium (semi-parabolic) or slow (parabolic), since it is believed that these rods are able to both feel the bite normally and bring the fish to the surface.
In general, a very simple rule applies to spinning for catfish: the farther from the fisherman, the more flexible it is. That is, the butt of the spinning rod should be super strong, and the tip, on the contrary, should be very flexible and pliable. The passage rings must also be large and durable.
The next piece of equipment is the reel. The requirements for it are, perhaps, even more stringent than for a fishing rod. First of all, a catfish reel should have good smooth running and no backlash in all directions.
For catching fish weighing from 10 to 15 kg, spinning reels are suitable. The recommended capacity is at least 4000. The load on the inertia-free system will be large, so it is recommended not to purchase cheap solutions. For small catfish, choose “power” coils with a low transmission ratio of 4.2 to 1.
Larger fish (weighing 15 kg or more) will require the use of baitcasting reels, since they provide maximum strength. In addition, you can use thick fishing lines or braided cord with them.
Both braided and monofilament options are chosen as fishing line for catfish. It makes no sense to choose a line with a strength of less than 30 pounds (about 15 kg). The diameter of this line is 0.44 mm. Typically, catfish fishermen are offered fishing lines with a fairly large margin (0.6, 0.7 or even 1.3 mm, with a strength of 18 to 70 kg).
If a fisherman prefers braided line, then it is better to choose one with as little stretch as possible and as much sensitivity as possible.
The use of leashes is recommended, since although the catfish does not have sharp teeth, it can rub the braided line or get entangled in snags. It is recommended for catfish to use titanium leashes with reliable fasteners in the form of carabiners or swivels.
A must-have fishing tackle when catching catfish is a lipgrip - a device for grabbing large fish by the mouth. It is very difficult to lift a catfish with your bare hands, and no landing net will help, but with the help of a lipgrip you can cope with this task without any problems.
The size of the hooks should match the size of the bait. It is best to use forged tees when fishing for catfish.
When catching catfish with natural bait, you can use a kwok - a special beater, the blows of which on the surface attract this fish. However, spinning rods are usually not used for this type of fishing.
TOP 10 best spinning rods for catfish
When preparing to fish for catfish, pay attention to the rating of the best gear. By choosing one of these fishing rods, you will not be left without a catch.
Graphiteleader Tiro Prototype GOTPS-762L-T.
The aesthetic device with a size of 229 cm and a test of 1-12 g is ideal for elegant fishing.
Maximus Wild Power-X SWPX27H
An excellent option for a large jig. The length reaches 270 cm, the test weight is from 15 to 20 g. Designed for fishing at great depths.
Aiko Troutex TRO180UL
Unlike the previous spinning rod, it is designed for ultralight mode. Designed for baits weighing no more than 5 g. Length 180 cm, and quite light - only 82 g.
ZEMEX Spider Pro 270 5-28g fast
It has a plug rod of a very respectable appearance. Shore jig is excellent. Withstands the test up to 28 g.
Pontoon-21 GAD GANCHO GAN702LLF
This spinning rod is well suited for beginners, as it will suit them both in cost and functionality, which any beginner can master. It has a two-part design with a length of 213 cm. It also boasts a comfortable handle.
Black Hole Pro Team 702ML
This model is perfect for both beginners and professionals. Experienced spinners can rest assured of the good quality of the product, and beginners will especially like the stylish design of the spinning rod.
St.Croix Legend Elite LES70MF2
This two-piece plug spinning rod is mainly intended for twitching. Nevertheless, many anglers have already managed to use this rod, resorting to other fishing methods. The fishing rod weighs 115 g and its length is 105 g.
Black Hole Bass Mania S-752 EVA
This model offers excellent value for money. The rod is well suited for twitch. The length is 2.25 m. At the same time, the form has excellent action. Thanks to the spaced handle, the angler has a lot of opportunities to conduct the retrieve. With all its functionality, the catfish fishing rod has a universal weight of 128 g.
Salmo Elite X-Twitch 198
If you are a beginner and want to also try twitching, a two-piece plug spinning rod with a length of 198 cm is well suited for you. In a boat, the length is shortened to approximately 1 m. The fast action is ensured by high-modulus IM9 graphite.
Shimano Forcemaster Ax Boat 270 ML (FMAXBT270ML2)
A very good trolling spinning rod at a decent price. Sufficiently high action values contribute to catching catfish in the deepest places. The blank is significantly lighter due to a combination of XT40 carbon and Geofibre. Equipped with guides and branded Shimano Hardlite reel seat.
Article on the topic: Ultralight spinning rod
How and where to catch catfish?
The most promising places for catching catfish are large rivers with warm water; this fish tries to avoid small cold reservoirs. The fisherman will need to find a quiet place with deep-water holes, preferably filled with snags or covered with underwater vegetation.
It is best to go fishing in the evening or at night, since at this time catfish often hunt in shallow reaches.
To begin with, you can try to fish the shallows in the bay in areas with a depth of at least a meter, where catfish often hunt frogs. This rule is only relevant for fishing in clear and warm weather; during stormy and cool days, when there is a large amount of precipitation, the catfish tries not to get close to the shore and stays at great depths, so you will need to use gear capable of long casts and appropriate baits .
The most difficult stage is fishing for prey, since the catfish has impressive strength and offers active resistance. For this reason, you should not rush and try to immediately pull the fish ashore; first you need to wait until the moment when it gets tired and stops resisting.
When going underwater and trying to hide at the bottom, you need to strike the rod lightly: they will create vibration and scare the prey, forcing it to rise to the surface of the reservoir.
Good to know! When a fish floats up belly up, you can try to bring it to shallow water, where it is taken under the gills and pulled ashore. All actions must be carried out wearing protective gloves on your hands to avoid painful cuts from the fishing line.
TOP 10 best catfish feeders
Shimano Beast Master Feeder
The manufacturer produces a whole series of feeders that allow you to catch a wide variety of fish with the ability to cast long distances. Thanks to the improvement of the form, it has become much more convenient to throw and land your trophy.
Mikado Ultraviolet
Lightweight and balanced form with preferential action. The length reaches up to 4.5 meters. Made from carbon fiber material with a rubberized handle. Power parameters go off scale beyond 120 g.
Mikado Tachibana
A blank up to 4 m long. Test with a capacity of 90 g. With this option, it is better to stick to catching medium fish.
Daiwa Aqualite Feeder
Versions of different feeder lengths are available (an option with a length of 3 to 4 meters is being considered). Boasts a convenient holder.
Algorithm
A very light feeder, which is perfect for calm flows in a closed reservoir.
Daiwa VULCAN X LEGER
The 3.66 m long blank differs from previous versions in its high degree of reliability, as it is made of graphite. It is equipped with rings and a spool holder. This device weighs 230 g. Power test 60 g.
Maximus Agent 330M
The same graphite form, but only a dated 2016 model. There is a more advanced holder and guide rings. 3 clevert types available. The feeder is adapted for catching larger species of fish.
"Volzhanka Optima"
Copes perfectly with the longest cast (test 50 g). The feeder will be able to catch a big fish, but is unlikely to cope with its fishing. It is better to catch small and medium prey with it, in places with a calm current.
Banax piccolo
Has three sections. The length of the blank can be easily changed depending on the fishing conditions. There have been improvements in other details as well. This rod has excellent throwing properties.
Kosadaka Blaze Feeder 330
A fairly heavy form is used, but very reliable.
Article on the topic: Catching chub in winter with a jig
TOP 5 best reels for catching catfish
Flagman Big Cat 8000 reel
A catfishing reel from a boat released in 2021 and available to all anglers who want to purchase a quality product at an affordable price. It has four bearings, a one-way clutch and an anti-vibration system. Thanks to the graphite body and aluminum spool, it is more or less lightweight.
Catfish reel Banax Triton Boat 5000 Long Cast
The quality and functionality of the reel are well developed. The 3.7:1 gear ratio and 6 bearings increase the level of traction under heavy loads.
Spro Power Drive Spin 8.000
Popular brand, very powerful device. The towing capacity reaches 30 kg. The design is covered by a waterproof casing, which differs from others in its high level of quality, as it is made of aluminum.
Reel RYOBI CARNELIAN
Although the reel weighs only 880g, its power is enormous. The device is capable of competing with multiplier products. Designed to catch only heavy trophies. Metal body, 10 bearings, two overrunning clutches.
Lures
The best artificial baits for catfish are:
- Large oscillating spoons. This type of bait can only be used in places where the bottom is sufficiently clean, where there are no tree roots, submerged objects, or snags on the bottom;
- Deep-sea large wobblers (the preferred form is a minnow or an exact imitation of a ruff) This type of bait can only be used in places where the bottom is sufficiently clean, where there are no tree roots, submerged objects, or snags on the bottom;
- Jig baits (twisters, slugs, frogs), which work well in early spring, when catfish are just emerging from hibernation and hunting for everything that moves. This type of bait can be used in combination with an offset hook in the most difficult places for any spinning angler - in snags and dense thickets of aquatic vegetation.
- Surface baits (poppers, artificial mouse, frog imitation). It works best in the heat of summer and when catfish are active in the fall. There are different techniques for catching catfish with live bait.
Advice! You need to choose bait for catfish based on the activity of the catfish in the pond. If the catfish rises to the surface (characteristic squelching sounds are heard), then it is better to prefer surface baits. If the catfish is not visible or heard at the surface, then you need to use bottom baits.
