12 best fishing reels from AliExpress

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.

How to make a donka for catfish with your own hands?

To make a donk on your own, you will need a strong fishing line with a diameter of 0.5-1 mm, hooks number 10-40, plus a heavy weight.

Step-by-step creation instructions look like this:

At the very beginning, a sinker is attached to the fishing line, and already above it, at a distance of 30-40 cm, leashes are attached and, using a carabiner, this is attached to the main part with a carabiner.
Next, take any homemade equipment - it can be made from any strong, available material. And here it is good because it allows you to hunt for catfish of any size.
You need a fishing line - take a twine, twisted or braided, that can withstand a load of up to 30-35 kilograms, and here it is important not to skimp on its length, reeling out 100-150 meters.
The weight can be bought either in a store or cast from lead in the shape you need - it is attached at a distance of 40-80 cm from the hook.

Good to know! Everything is quite simple and easy - if you have time and desire, you can assemble it yourself.

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.

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