Winter fishing can be an enriching experience. For me, chasing catfish during the colder months has become a favorite challenge, requiring strategy, patience, and perseverance. Catfish are known for their preference for warm waters, so winter angling for them can feel daunting.
But with a little know-how, the right gear, and plenty of determination, winter catfishing can yield some of the biggest catches of the year. Let’s dive into my personal experience and the essentials of winter catfishing.
Why Winter Fishing for Catfish is Special
Many anglers focus on species like trout or walleye in winter, leaving catfish untouched by the majority of fishermen. However, the colder months can produce trophy-sized catfish since fewer anglers mean less competition. Also, large catfish tend to be more active during the day when the sun warms the water slightly, unlike their nocturnal habits in summer.
Through trial and error, I’ve learned that winter fishing offers unique challenges—understanding how catfish behave in cold water, where to find them, and how to entice them when they’re less active. But those challenges make success all the sweeter.
Finding Catfish in Winter
Finding catfish during winter starts with understanding how their behavior changes. As the water temperature drops, catfish move to deeper holes or channels where water temperatures are more stable.
Key Locations to Find Catfish in Winter:
- Deep River Holes: In river fishing, catfish often gather in the deepest areas where the current is slower. These holes provide both warmth and protection.
- Reservoir Channels: In lakes or reservoirs, catfish tend to settle into deep channels where the water stays warmer.
- Dams and Power Plants: Some dams release warmer water from below the surface, attracting catfish. Power plants often discharge warmer water, creating a hotspot for winter catfish.
During one of my early winter fishing outings, I spent hours trying shallow areas with no success, only to later realize the fish had moved to the deepest part of the channel. That shift in strategy marked a turning point in my winter catfishing approach.
Gear for Winter Catfishing
Winter conditions can be brutal, so having the right gear is essential for both success and safety. Here’s what I bring on every winter catfishing trip:
Fishing Gear
- Rods and Reels: Medium-heavy rods and baitcasting reels work well for handling larger catfish. I prefer 7-9 foot rods to reach deep holes more effectively.
- Line: I typically use a 20-30 lb braided line with a monofilament leader for abrasion resistance.
- Sinkers: Depending on the current, I use egg or no-roll sinkers to keep my bait near the bottom where catfish lurk.
Bait for Winter Catfish
- Cut Bait: Catfish respond well to cut bait in cold water. I use shad, skipjack, or bluegill cut into chunks.
- Chicken Liver: It remains a reliable option, especially for channel catfish.
- Stink Bait: Stink bait works well for enticing sluggish catfish during winter, as they rely on their strong sense of smell.
On one particular trip, I found that a combination of cut bait and stink bait was irresistible to blue catfish. I cast two rods—one with shad chunks and one with stink bait—and both setups saw plenty of action throughout the day.
Staying Warm and Comfortable
Staying warm is crucial. The excitement of hooking a catfish can quickly wear off if you’re freezing and wet. I’ve learned to always prepare for cold weather by layering properly.
Winter Clothing for Fishing
- Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermal underwear keeps sweat off your skin.
- Insulating Layer: Fleece jackets or wool sweaters retain body heat.
- Outer Layer: A waterproof jacket and pants shield you from snow, rain, or wind.
- Footwear: Insulated waterproof boots keep my feet dry and warm throughout long hours on the bank or boat.
- Gloves and Hats: I always bring fingerless gloves and a wool beanie to keep my hands and head warm without compromising dexterity.
One harsh lesson I learned early on was the importance of waterproof boots. I once stood in icy puddles while fishing from shore, and by the end of the day, I could barely feel my toes. After that trip, I invested in proper winter boots, which made a world of difference.
Techniques That Work Best in Winter
During winter, catfish are less aggressive, so finesse and patience are essential. You might not see the ferocious hits you’d expect in summer, but with the right technique, you can still have a productive day.
Slow, Steady Presentation
Winter catfish are lethargic, so moving the bait slowly is crucial. I cast my bait to deep holes and let it sit for extended periods, sometimes up to 30 minutes before reeling in. Checking the bait less frequently prevents disturbing the fish.
Drift Fishing
Drift fishing is effective in reservoirs or lakes with minimal current. I let the boat or kayak drift over deep holes while my bait remains suspended just off the bottom. This technique covers more water and increases the chance of locating fish.
During one memorable winter trip, I used a slow drift technique along a reservoir channel. I hooked into a monster blue catfish weighing nearly 30 pounds, and it remains one of my most cherished fishing memories to this day.
Best Times to Fish for Catfish in Winter
Catfish feed less frequently in winter, but they are still active at certain times of the day.
- Late Morning to Early Afternoon: As the sun warms the water, catfish become more active.
- Before Weather Changes: Fish tend to bite more before cold fronts or storms move in.
On one trip, I arrived at the riverbank at sunrise, expecting an early bite, but it wasn’t until late morning that the fish started biting. Since then, I’ve learned that patience is often rewarded during winter fishing.
Safety Tips for Winter Fishing
Winter fishing can be dangerous if you’re not prepared. The following safety advice is what I always do:
- Bring a Buddy: Having someone with you is always safer, especially in cold conditions.
- Carry Emergency Supplies: I pack extra clothes, hand warmers, and a first-aid kit.
- Check Weather Forecasts: I avoid fishing in extreme weather or when ice and snow could make travel dangerous.
On one occasion, I misjudged the weather and found myself fishing through sleet and freezing rain. Luckily, I had packed extra clothes, which saved me from an early exit. This experience taught me never to underestimate winter weather.
Personal Success Stories
One of my most rewarding winter fishing experiences took place last February. I was fishing on the banks of a local river with temperatures hovering just above freezing. After several hours of no-bites, I decided to switch my bait to fresh-cut bluegill, and within minutes, I hooked a large channel catfish.
That fish was a turning point. I realized that success in winter catfishing requires persistence and a willingness to adapt. It’s not always about catching the most fish—it’s about enjoying the challenge and savoring the reward of those hard-earned catches.
Why I Love Winter Catfishing
Winter catfishing has become one of my favorite pursuits. It offers solitude, fewer crowds, and the chance to catch some of the biggest catfish of the year. Although it requires more preparation and patience, the rewards are well worth the effort.
The key to enjoying winter fishing lies in embracing the challenge. It’s about learning the habits of catfish in cold weather, dressing appropriately, and being willing to put in the time. I’ve found that each winter trip brings new lessons, and every catch feels like a personal victory.
If you’re considering winter fishing for catfish, my advice is simple: Go for it. The cold weather might seem intimidating, but with the right preparation and mindset, winter catfishing can become one of the most enjoyable parts of your fishing tips and calendar.
So wrap yourself warm, get your equipment, and head to the freshwater fishing saltwater fishing. Find the winter catfish, they’re waiting for you!
