Catfish fishing rod
A telescopic rod is inappropriate for catching this predator, as it most likely will not withstand the load. In this regard, you should take a plug-type rod.
You should not use painfully long or too short ones; the optimal length would be 2.7 m. The test of rods for catching catfish ranges from 100-600 g.
Rods with a test weight of 100-300 g are preferable, but for fishing with artificial baits the optimal figure is 100-150 g.
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.
Catfish reels
A fisherman aiming to catch catfish will need a good, massive reel, either a multiplier or a spinning reel. The first thing you should pay attention to is the capacity of its spool.
150 m is the minimum line length when fishing from the shore; for fishing on a boat, the figure may be slightly less.
This is due to the fact that when biting, a fisherman on a boat will be able to follow the predator, which is impossible when fishing from the shore (except by swimming).
It is also worth noting that many fishermen prefer spinning reels, because when using other types, catfish escapes are often observed.
Which reels are suitable for catching catfish and what to look for when choosing
A catfish reel must be powerful and massive. There are main criteria in the mechanism and technical characteristics of the reels, which are responsible for the entire fishing process:
• Type of coil operation: multiplier or inertia-free.
• The capacity of the line guide for the reel should be 150 meters or more.
• A fishing line or cord for fishing is used with a diameter of 0.35 millimeters or more.
• The reel body must be strong and massive.
• The friction brake of the reel should be conveniently adjustable in order to easily dampen the jerks of the catfish and carefully fish out a heavy trophy.
• The gear ratio of the reel should be chosen in the range from 3.8 to 1 to 4 to 1; with such a reel it will be more convenient to fight the heaviest catfish.
• If fishing takes place in the dark, the reel should be equipped with a baitrunner, which will prevent a heavy catfish from dragging all the gear into the reservoir.
For catfish weighing between 10 and 15 kilograms, a reel size of 4000, 5000, 6000 or more is suitable.
If a fisherman plans to catch a trophy of more than 20 kilograms, then the type of operation of the reel should be multiplier, the body should be as durable as possible, and the capacity of the reel spool should be suitable for winding thick braids with a diameter of 0.5 millimeters to 1 meter.
Since the reels used for catching catfish are large and powerful, the rod blank must match the characteristics. Rod blank test
:
• Test of the form for jig fishing for catfish from the shore or boat from 25 grams to 60 grams.
• For bottom fishing from a boat from 80 to 300 grams.
• For bottom fishing from the coastline from 100 to 500 grams.
Rod blank length
for a powerful and heavy reel it is selected
taking into account the fishing method
:
• For jig fishing from the shoreline, the length of the spinning rod ranges from 7.7 to 3.5 meters.
• For jig fishing from a boat, the length of the form is from 1.5 to 2.5 meters.
• For fishing with a bottom from a boat from 1.5 to 2.5 meters.
• For bottom fishing from the shoreline from 3 to 3.8 meters.
For fishing from the side of a boat, you can purchase an inertial reel model; you need to use a quok as gear. The material of the inertial coil must be very durable. An inertial reel is suitable for the closest casting and landing of catfish weighing no more than 5 kilograms.
Catfish for trolling
Since the catfish's vision is rather poor, it often relies on smell, as well as hearing and picking up vibrations. For these reasons, you should select a wobbler for catching this predator with attention to the following factors:
- Pronounced game of bait;
- The working depth of the wobbler must correspond to the depth of the selected fishing spot. In particularly deep areas, a wobbler is used together with a paternoster.
- A variety of rattles, metal balls and other small sources of noise increase the attractiveness of the wobbler for predatory fish;
- The color of the wobbler practically does not matter, although sometimes fishermen advise taking the bait as brightly as possible, for example, with a light green or orange color.
It is worth remembering that a catfish is unlikely to chase a fast-moving bait, even if it flies in close proximity to it. It will be most effective to ensure that the wobbler moves at a low speed, at which it will sometimes catch the bottom. This will raise the silt and create additional noise, which will attract a predator.
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: Carp fishing place, Carp fishing
Catching catfish on a donk
The donka, designed for catching catfish, is an extremely powerful rod with a medium length and a high test rating.
It is also necessary to use a multiplier reel and a thick cord, since casting too far is not required in this case, and the fight against hooks and large predators will certainly follow during fishing.
Only in the case of a significant current over the pit can you take a cord of a smaller diameter in order to reduce windage. In order to give the tackle the desired level of sensitivity, a sliding sinker is used. The hooks selected are extremely large and sharp, and, naturally, of high quality.
The installation of donks is approximately as follows: one is placed directly on the pit, and the other two are installed on the lower sections of the dump (an option is to place two on the pit, and the third on a smoother edge).
Donks should be well fixed on the holders, and care should also be taken to adjust the brakes of the reels, so that when biting, the line will be released quickly.
Catching catfish at night in the pits is a rather unique activity that requires good endurance and strong nerves from the fisherman.
Sometimes you have to sit for several nights to get the long-awaited bite. There are, of course, quite lively predator bites, but this mostly depends on luck.
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.
Catching catfish using a spinning rod
For this method of fishing, the same gear is used as for catching large pike.
If it is known that very large catfish live in the reservoir, then you can install a stronger cord, leash and larger hooks.
The size and equipment of the spinning rod must correspond to the expected loads, and it is worth bringing a hook into the boat, which will greatly simplify pulling the catfish into the vessel in case of a catch.
More often than others, polymer-rubber or foam fish, equipped with a sinker weighing 15-50 g, which is placed in the bow, act as bait.
When using oscillating spoon spoons, the action of the bait should be as sluggish as possible.
Wobblers of various designs are also used for catching catfish, but models with a diving depth of more than 4.5 m are considered especially catchy. Frogs, shell meat, and fish can also be used as bait.
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: Carp fishing place, Carp fishing
Catching catfish with a line
To make a saddle, you will need a nylon cord 15-25 m long, a weight weighing 200-250 g, a leading line with a diameter of 0.7-0.8 mm and 1-2 hooks (No. 10-15 according to Soviet numbering).
It is best to place one hook per strap. The lines are placed in the evening and checked in the morning. The line is cast directly from the hand (before casting, the thread should be laid out on the shore). You can fix the line on the shore, for example, using an ordinary wooden stake.
Power reels for catfishing
» Articles about fishing » Power reels for catching catfish
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Good day, today I want to review the Kastking Rover 70L power baitcasting reel, which is suitable for catching large fish, including trolling. Last year, when I went fishing for the first time to Astrakhan, I became very interested in this activity and decided to thoroughly prepare for the next season. The main question was the selection of a power reel for catching catfish, which should be as strong and high-torque as possible, which spinning reels cannot always provide, and of course I wanted to try something new. This reel is a continuation of the very successful and popular Kastking RXA series, which has proven itself well among fishing enthusiasts. The reel is available in 6 sizes and 2 options for left and right hand. I decided to choose the golden mean - 70L, so to speak, a compromise between size (weight) and maximum traction force. Since I was accustomed to spinning reels for the left hand, I decided not to change my habit, and also took into account that it would be easier to hold a far from lightweight “crocodile” with an all-metal reel with my right hand. The order was sent by China Post with a track and reached me in about a month. Tracking:
www.17track.net/ru/track?nums=RS369689305CN
From the post office I picked up a heavy parcel weighing about 1 kilo. Having unpacked the parcel, I understood where such a considerable weight came from, the contents of the parcel pleasantly surprised - the seller included several branded accessories as gifts - a cap, a bag and a wobbler, in addition to this there is an “explosion diagram” and a rag case for the reel: So, let’s take a closer look at the reel. Reel diameter 73mm, width 110mm without handle or 180mm with it. Weight, as stated, 535 grams. The main controls are all visible - there are mechanical brakes on the sides at both ends of the spool axis that prevent the spool from unwinding by inertia and the concomitant tangling of the line after casting. The winding handle can only move in one direction and is instantly blocked in the opposite direction. The friction brake control is located directly under this handle - a 5-leaf sprocket is responsible for this. To unlock the spool, for example when casting, there is a U-shaped button on the body; it disconnects the rigid connection between the spool and the winding mechanism. The handle can be adjusted to provide more leverage, which is useful for increasing torque when landing large fish. On the opposite side of the handle is the ratchet switch. When turned on, it always cracks when the spool rotates. Attachment to the rod and the “endless screw” of the line layer: The reel body is made of metal, the spool is aluminum, the whole structure gives the impression of a well-coordinated quality item, unlike many inertia-free reels. There is a feeling that there is simply nothing to break in this reel, however, knowing the Chinese manufacturers, it is better not to make any guesses, but to understand it in more detail. Let's start the analysis. First, unscrew the stopper of the nut that holds the handle, after which you can safely unscrew the nut and remove the handle. The only thing you need to take into account is that it has a left-hand thread. After this, unscrew the 3 nuts holding the right part with the cover. Separate the right part with the cover and remove the spool. We see that the gears are metal, with the exception of one, which is responsible for the ratchet, and the spool axis sits in ball bearings pressed into both side covers. On the left side of the reel there is a gear drive that drives the endless line guide screw and ratchet mechanism. I didn’t take a photo of the analysis of the left side, because... there is nothing interesting or missing in this photo. But we will halve the right part by unscrewing 2 screws from the outside. We have before us a rather complex device for activating the free movement of the spool, which disconnects the driven gear, as well as the main clutch of the reel along with the roller bearing that blocks the reverse movement of the handle. A larger photo of the clutch with drive gear and roller bearing: Inside the clutch there are 4 impressive carbon disks (3 on one side and 1 on the other), in my opinion they should withstand a much greater load than the manufacturer indicated. By the way, few manufacturers indicate specific numbers for the load on the clutch; usually they only limit themselves to indicating the maximum cross-section of the fishing line/braid. Therefore, it is very problematic to clearly judge the permissible load on the clutch. After a detailed study of the device, it becomes clear how simple and reliable it is. The only thing is that I was missing 2 ball bearings out of 4 declared, but I suspect that they are pressed into the handle (knob). However, to be honest, a larger number of bearings is simply not needed for a power multiplier reel of this type, because it will not add reliability, and the additional softness of the ride is not particularly relevant for power fishing. Let's try the reel on a Siweida Crocodile 2.1m rod with a test weight of 100-250. This rod is not the strongest and does not particularly suit this reel, but we will fix this closer to the season) Now let’s try to reel in ~100-120 meters of 0.4 braided cord:
