There is nothing quite as thrilling as pulling a massive flathead catfish out of a river or lake from your drifting boat. Those gigantic prehistoric creatures can really put up a fight when hooked! As an avid catfisherman, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting my drift fishing technique for optimally targeting these trophy-sized catfish.
Over the years I’ve learned many valuable lessons about how to rig my boat for success, select the best baits for the conditions, and apply drifting tactics that maximize my chances of feeling that unforgettable surge of adrenaline when one of those brutes inhales my bait. In this post, I’ll share how to drift fish for catfish. Get ready to level up your catfishing game with these drift fishing secrets!
Why is It Important to Drift Fish for Catfish?
1 . To Catch More Catfish
Drift fishing is a very effective technique for catching catfish. Whether you are targeting channel cats, blue cats or flatheads, drifting can help you catch more of these bottom-dwelling fish. The reason why drift fishing is so successful is because it allows you to cover a large area and present your bait in front of actively feeding catfish. Instead of being stagnant in one location, you are constantly moving and increasing your chances of catching more catfish.
2. To Catch Bigger Catfish
Another reason why drift fishing is important when targeting catfish is because it allows you to catch bigger fish. As mentioned earlier, drifting allows you to cover a larger area which means that you can target areas where bigger catfish may be hiding. When using this technique, you can also use bigger baits which will attract larger catfish. Drift fishing is a great way to target trophy-sized catfish.
3. To Adapt to Different Conditions
One of the biggest challenges when fishing for catfish is adapting to changing conditions. Catfish are known to be finicky and their feeding patterns can change depending on the water temperature, time of day, and other environmental factors. Drift fishing allows you to constantly adjust your bait presentation and cover different depths until you find where the catfish are actively feeding.
How to Drift Fish for Catfish in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Choosing the Right Setup
Drift fishing is one of the most popular methods for catching catfish. It involves using a boat to move along with the current while fishing. In this method, you can use either live or cut bait and wait for the catfish to take the bait as it drifts by. To successfully drift fish for catfish, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment. These include a drift rig, a rod and reel combo, hooks, sinkers, and bait.
Step 2: Adjusting the Depth
Once you have your equipment ready, it’s time to set up your drift fishing rig. The first step is to adjust the depth of your bait. Catfish are bottom dwellers, so it’s important to keep your bait close to the bottom of the water. You can use a slip bobber or a lead weight to achieve this. Attach the weight about 12-18 inches above your hook and let it rest on the bottom.
Step 3: Drifting with the Current
With your setup ready, it’s time to start drifting. The key to successful drift fishing is to move with the current at a slow pace. You can use your boat motor to control the speed and direction of your drift. It’s important to maintain a steady pace, not too fast or too slow, to keep your bait in the strike zone.
Step 4: Setting the Hook
As you drift along, be on the lookout for any signs of fish activity such as nibbles or line movement. When you feel a tug on your line, it’s time to set the hook. To do this, quickly pull back on your rod to drive the hook into the catfish’s mouth. It’s important to be patient and not jerk too hard as this can cause the fish to spit out the bait.
Step 5: Reeling in the Catch
Once you have successfully set the hook, it’s time to reel in your catch. Catfish are known for their strong fights, so be prepared for a battle. Keep tension on the line and use steady reeling motions to bring the fish closer to your boat. Once you have the catfish close enough, you can use a net or grab it with your hands to bring it on board.
Tips for Drift Fishing for Catfish
1 . Choose the Right Spot
When it comes to drift fishing for catfish, location is key. Look for areas with a steady current and structure such as rocks, logs, or drop-offs. These spots provide shelter and food for catfish, making them more likely to be found in these areas.
2. Use Fresh Bait
Catfish are known to have a strong sense of smell, so using fresh bait is essential. Some popular options for catfish bait include chicken liver, shad, and nightcrawlers. Make sure to keep your bait fresh and change it often as it can lose its scent over time.
3. Use the Right Tackle
When drift fishing for catfish, it’s important to use the right tackle. Use a medium to heavy rod with a strong backbone, as catfish can put up a good fight. A braided line is also recommended as it’s stronger and more sensitive than monofilament.
4. Be Patient
Drift fishing for catfish requires patience. It may take some time for the fish to find your bait, so be prepared to wait it out. Catfish are more active at night, so consider fishing during the early morning or evening for better chances of success.
5. Adjust Your Drift Speed
The speed of your drift can make a big difference in catching catfish. If the current is too strong, you may need to slow down your drift or use a heavier weight. Conversely, if the current is too slow, you may need to speed up your drift or use a lighter weight.
6. Keep Your Bait off the Bottom
Catfish tend to feed on or near the bottom, but they are also known to swim up and attack prey above them. To increase your chances of catching catfish, keep your bait just off the bottom, using a bobber or float to keep it at the desired depth.
7. Stay Safe
Safety should always be a top priority when fishing, and drift fishing for catfish is no exception. Be aware of your surroundings and make sure to wear appropriate safety gear such as a life jacket. If you’re fishing in an area with strong currents, consider anchoring your boat to prevent drifting too far.
8. Experiment with Different Techniques
The best way to find success in drift fishing for catfish is to experiment with different techniques. Try using different baits, changing up your drift speed or location, and adjusting your setup until you find what works best for you.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to catching catfish while drift fishing. Remember to always practice catch and release, and respect the environment by properly disposing of any trash or fishing equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take Before Drifting for Catfish?
Before you begin drift fishing for catfish, make sure you have all the necessary safety equipment on board. This includes a personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board, a fire extinguisher, and an emergency signaling device. You should also check the weather forecast before heading out and avoid fishing in unsafe conditions. Additionally, make sure your boat is in good working condition and that all necessary equipment such as lights, navigation aids, and communication devices are functioning properly.
What Type of Bait Should I Use for Drift Fishing?
When drift fishing for catfish, the best bait to use is live or cut bait. Good options include shad, bluegill, carp, and nightcrawlers. You can also use commercial stink baits or homemade dough baits, which are designed to attract catfish with their strong scent. Experiment with different types of bait to see what works best for the catfish in your area.
How Do I Set Up My Gear for Drift Fishing?
To set up your gear for drift fishing, you will need a rod and reel equipped with heavy-duty line, a weight such as a sinker or egg-shaped bell sinker, and a hook. Tie the weight to the end of your line using a strong knot like an improved clinch knot. Then, attach the hook about 18 inches above the weight using a snell knot for added strength.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drift fishing for catfish can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for any angler looking to up their fishing game. From choosing the right bait to finding the perfect spot on the water, there are many factors that go into successfully catching these elusive fish. But with practice and patience, you too can become a skilled driftfisher and reel in some impressive catches. So next time you’re out on the water, don’t be afraid to try out this technique.
Now you know how to drift fish for catfish! And remember, always respect the environment and give back by properly handling any catches you make. Now it’s time to put your newfound knowledge into action and see what kind of catfish you can catch using this method! Trust me, once you start drifting, you’ll never want to go back to traditional fishing again. So grab your gear and hit the water – an adventure awaits!