Expert tips and tactics for catching Manitoba’s mighty channel catfish

TACKLE & TECHNIQUES

Mature channel cats are strong, heavy fish and, when aided by current, they can be a real handful to land. As such, stout gear is required. When fishing bait—the most popular tactic—the preferred tackle starts with a medium-heavy, 8½-foot rod; the extra length helps control the fish and better absorbs the jarring runs. A level-wind reel spooled with 20- to 35-pound mono is about right; the heavier the current you’re fishing, the heavier the line you’ll want. Mono is recommended over braided line because it stretches, resulting in fewer lost fish. It’s also less likely to cut the catfish when they inevitably roll.

Some anglers use a three-way swivel, with a baited hook on one side and a weight on the other. More popular, however, is a slip-sinker rig using two- to six-ounce weights, depending on the strength of the current. You want your bait to remain stationary while using the lightest weight possible, but it’s a balancing act—if your baited hook tumbles, it’s much more likely to become snagged.

For this set-up, run the mainline through your slip-sinker, then add a bead before tying off to a barrel swivel (the bead keeps the weight off the swivel and reduces line fray). Below the swivel, tie on a 12- to 36-inch snell (go with a shorter snell in heavy current, and a longer one in lighter current). Ensure the snell is a couple of pounds lighter in test than your main line. That way, your rig won’t break at the main line if you get snagged. Use circle hooks in sizes 2/0 to 6/0 so that the catfish hooks itself when it picks up the bait.

I’ve seen just about every imaginable catfish bait used over the years, from frogs to worms to strips of goldeye and sucker. Among the most popular baits is frozen shrimp, as it’s both effective and easily sourced—and channel cats don’t seem to be picky eaters.

Where possible when fishing from a boat, anchor above where you expect the fish to hold, and cast downstream to them. Cast far enough down that your line rides at approximately a 33-degree angle, and fish with the bail closed. If you cast out to the side, your bait is much more likely to become snagged. A stationary downstream presentation also allows the catfish to zero in on your bait more easily.

Catfish sense bait with their barbels, and you’ll often feel a couple of light taps as they explore your offering. When that happens, wait. You’ll know when a cat has actually picked up the bait because your rod will bend—that’s the time to set the hook. If you fish for 20 to 30 minutes without a bite, move to a new location. When they’re active, catfish are aggressive predators, so if you’re not getting bites, they’re not feeding where you are.

Once you’ve hooked a cat, keep steady pressure on your rod. The fish will want to run repeatedly, so let it, but immediately put pressure on the fish when it stops.

As with any fish you plan to live-release in good condition, don’t let the fight last any longer than necessary. Also, use a large landing net with a soft mesh, and wear gloves when handling the fish. It’s also a good idea to put the fish in a large tub once it’s in the boat or on shore. That reduces the likelihood of the fish thrashing excessively and getting injured while you remove the hook.