Fishing for catfish can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but one key to success is choosing the right bait. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, the type of bait you use can make a big difference in attracting and catching catfish. Let’s look at the best catfish baits that are tried and tested by enthusiasts.
1. Live Bait: A Proven Winner
Live bait is often considered the most effective way to catch catfish. On r/Fishing, many anglers swear by live bait, particularly when targeting larger species of catfish like the blue catfish or flathead catfish. Live bait has a natural appeal, mimicking the movements of prey, which draws in the fish.
Best Live Baits for Catfish:
- Shad: Freshwater shad is a top choice for catfish bait. It’s a natural part of the catfish diet, making it a highly effective option.
- Bluegill: Known to attract bigger catfish, bluegill works well when live-lined or used as cut bait.
- Sunfish: Smaller sunfish species are great for baiting catfish and can be caught easily in many waters.
- Minnows: A common choice in many fishing spots, minnows are especially effective in rivers and lakes.
Why It Works:
Live bait offers a natural scent and movement that catfish are instinctively drawn to. Catfish have a strong sense of smell, so the scent of live bait in the water can entice them from a distance.
2. Cut Bait: A Highly Effective and Affordable Option
Cut bait, or pieces of fish, is another popular choice for catfish bait. It’s widely discussed on r/Fishing because it’s easy to find and prepare, and it’s known to attract both smaller and larger catfish.
Best Cut Baits for Catfish:
- Shad: Cut pieces of shad are commonly used because they’re naturally found in many of the same environments as catfish.
- Chubs: A type of baitfish that works well when cut into pieces and used to lure larger catfish.
- Bluegill and Sunfish: When whole fish are not available, cutting up these smaller fish can provide the scent and texture needed to attract catfish.
Why It Works:
Cut bait releases oils and scents into the water, creating an irresistible trail that attracts catfish. The pieces of fish mimic the movement of prey while the scent draws them in.
3. Stink Bait: Ideal for Bottom Feeders
Stink bait, which includes anything from dough balls to commercial pastes, is another go-to choice for many anglers, especially in murky or deep water where catfish typically feed on the bottom. On r/Fishing, it’s noted that stink bait is particularly effective for channel catfish.
Popular Stink Baits for Catfish:
- Chicken Liver: A classic bait that works well because it’s smelly, easy to find, and inexpensive. Its strong scent makes it ideal for channel catfish.
- Commercial Stink Bait: Various brands of stink bait are available that are specially formulated to attract catfish. These are usually made with cheese, blood, and fishmeal.
- Dough Balls: Homemade dough balls or commercial dough balls often have a strong, pungent scent that attracts catfish. A mix of flour, garlic, and cheese is a popular recipe.
Why It Works:
Stink baits are extremely effective for catfish because they rely on the fish’s sense of smell. These baits are often packed with strong-smelling ingredients that appeal to the catfish’s natural instincts, especially when feeding on the bottom.
4. Nightcrawlers and Worms: Classic and Versatile
Nightcrawlers, often referred to as earthworms, are a tried-and-true bait that can work well for all species of catfish. Their versatility and availability make them a favorite choice among anglers in r/Fishing, especially for beginners who want an easy and effective option.
Why It Works:
Worms are a natural food source for catfish and have a high success rate in both calm and fast-moving waters. When fishing with worms, they can be used live or cut into smaller pieces for different results. Their scent is potent enough to draw catfish in, and their wriggling motion is an additional attraction.
5. Prepared Bait: A Convenient Alternative
Prepared baits, often in the form of dough balls or paste, are designed specifically for attracting catfish. Many anglers on r/Fishing recommend prepared baits for their convenience, particularly when targeting channel catfish. These baits are often made from a mix of grains, cheese, and scent attractants.
Popular Prepared Baits for Catfish:
- Dip Bait: A soft, paste-like bait that can be applied to hooks, perfect for catfish that feed on the bottom.
- Punch Bait: Similar to dip bait but thicker, punch bait is applied to a special punch rig and is often used in deeper waters.
Why It Works:
Prepared baits are formulated to mimic the natural scents and tastes that catfish love. They are easy to handle, don’t require refrigeration, and are especially useful when fishing in specific conditions.
6. Cheese and Other Homemade Options
Some anglers swear by unconventional catfish baits like cheese, hot dogs, and even marshmallows. These options can be particularly useful for those fishing for smaller catfish or in areas where traditional bait might not be as readily available.
Why It Works:
The fat and protein content in cheese, along with its pungent smell, make it an excellent attractant for catfish. Hot dogs and marshmallows, though unconventional, have been known to work as well, especially when other baits aren’t as effective.
