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.
Places suitable for catching catfish
Bottom tackle for catfish is installed on the flat bottom of a reservoir, therefore, the habitat of the mustachioed fish must be looked for taking into account these terrain features. As a rule, promising fishing spots are quiet river backwaters, approaching holes in the river bed and areas of snags. Smooth exits of the bottom from deep areas to coastal shallows should also be included in the range of fishing areas under consideration. On lakes, the habitats of giants look like vast backwaters cutting deep into the coastline, opening onto the shore as sandy beaches, the edges of which are fenced on the sides with a wall of reeds or sedges. On reservoirs, promising places will be dams and concrete-reinforced banks that go straight into the water. A depth of two meters is sufficient for feeding both small individuals and especially large specimens.
Important! For installation of gear, hard banks with convenient entries into the water are selected for optimal opportunities for landing already caught fish.
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.
Article on the topic: Tips for a beginner carp angler
How to catch catfish on a donk
Having chosen a promising fishing spot, the fisherman begins to install the gear, starting its installation no later than a couple of hours before the onset of evening, because the time of evening twilight and the first half of the night are the most catchy in relation to other parts of the day. Next, we will consider the technology and technique of fishing when using various types of gear, specifying the important aspects of the execution of the main elements of fishing.
Read more about bottom fishing and preparing different types of bottom rigs.
Small catfish must be released
With a rod
Having installed a stand for the rod on the shore and equipped the hook with a nozzle, cast the tackle, paying attention to the accuracy of the bait, in view of its possible dislocation with an excessively strong swing and subsequent impact on the water.
Important! The equipment that has reached the bottom is pulled up with a reel until the cord is fully tensioned, which can be seen from the tense quiver tip of the rod.
After tensioning, the cord is equipped with an alarm and a bite is expected. Catfish bite sharply, picking up the bait and continuing their movement without pause. Such a pull should be immediately accompanied by a hook and, sensing the resistance of a fish that has landed on the hook, you must promptly begin to land it. Fishing is carried out with a reel, gradually winding the cord and tiring the fish by pulling the form in the direction opposite to the trajectory of the fish. The mustachioed predator is quite strong and resilient, and the fight with a large individual can continue for dozens of minutes, and sometimes hours, with varying success.
Tired fish are identified by the release of bubbles to the surface, which is the moment for more decisive action to reel in the line. The best technique is to drag the trophy onto a flat bank. Small catfish are immediately placed on the kukan. The large fish are caught in the head area with a humanizer and after this manipulation the hook is released and the specimen is croaked, placing it on a rope near the shore.
Without a rod
It is more convenient to cast a classic donkey by placing a load from the boat. In this case, the live bait remains guaranteed to be intact, and the tackle itself is controlled for installation in order to avoid tangling of the leads. Biting, like hooking a fish, is similar to the previous fishing method, but fishing has significant differences. Catfish from the shore are taken on a classic donka with strict control of laying the extended cord in a certain place, in a way different from rings and loops. The hunter must wear overalls on his hands to prevent cuts from the fishing line . Sudden withdrawals of fish are accompanied by the fisherman lowering a small amount of line and then holding the fish, which must be repeated until the resistance of the predator subsides. They take catfish into the landing net close to the shore. You can use a net only after catching an individual no more than five to seven kilograms. A large predator is pulled ashore by grabbing it in the shallows with their hands under the gills or taking it by the lip.
TOP 10 best catfish feeders
Shimano Beast Master Feeder
The manufacturer produces a whole series of feeders that allow you to catch a wide variety of fish with the ability to cast long distances. Thanks to the improvement of the form, it has become much more convenient to throw and land your trophy.
Mikado Ultraviolet
Lightweight and balanced form with preferential action. The length reaches up to 4.5 meters. Made from carbon fiber material with a rubberized handle. Power parameters go off scale beyond 120 g.
Mikado Tachibana
A blank up to 4 m long. Test with a capacity of 90 g. With this option, it is better to stick to catching medium fish.
Daiwa Aqualite Feeder
Versions of different feeder lengths are available (an option with a length of 3 to 4 meters is being considered). Boasts a convenient holder.
Algorithm
A very light feeder, which is perfect for calm flows in a closed reservoir.
Daiwa VULCAN X LEGER
The 3.66 m long blank differs from previous versions in its high degree of reliability, as it is made of graphite. It is equipped with rings and a spool holder. This device weighs 230 g. Power test 60 g.
Maximus Agent 330M
The same graphite form, but only a dated 2016 model. There is a more advanced holder and guide rings. 3 clevert types available. The feeder is adapted for catching larger species of fish.
"Volzhanka Optima"
Copes perfectly with the longest cast (test 50 g). The feeder will be able to catch a big fish, but is unlikely to cope with its fishing. It is better to catch small and medium prey with it, in places with a calm current.
Banax piccolo
Has three sections. The length of the blank can be easily changed depending on the fishing conditions. There have been improvements in other details as well. This rod has excellent throwing properties.
Kosadaka Blaze Feeder 330
A fairly heavy form is used, but very reliable.
Article on the topic: What are boilies? What size boilie is optimal for fishing?
Choosing equipment for catfish hunting
Many years of observation of the behavior of the predator and its habitats have suggested that the best means for hunting it are the following.
Bottom gear
Depending on the region and habitat of this fish (in the Kuban there are some conditions, on the Kama and Oka - others), hunters for the king of the underwater world use their own modifications of equipment, but, as a rule, the operating principle is the same, the difference is only in the nuances. You can construct catfish donks with your own hands.
To learn more:
Equipping a donkey for crucian carp: how to make a catchy tackle
Sometimes they use gear with fishing rods. For installation, take strong and reliable sticks (aluminum spinning rods, models for catching carp and large sea creatures). Such a fishing rod should withstand powerful jerks of large fish. The selection of the coil is approached in the same way - it is no less durable.
The choice of fishing line depends on the size of the fish living in the fishing area. Sometimes it is preferable to wind monofilament with a diameter of 0.5-1 mm onto the spool. For a leash, take a vein 0.1 mm thinner than the main one. The load can be made stationary or sliding. At shallow depths and minor currents, its weight can be 100-15 g, and in order to hold the bait away from the shore in a deep hole, weights of up to 1 kg are used.
Catfish hooks are large and with increased strength, usually numbers from 10 to 40 from different companies. Some fishermen place live bait on several stings at once, piercing it in different places. The risk of loss of expected production is significantly reduced.
Tackle for catfish can be designed without the use of a fishing rod. Such equipment is used in places where fishing is done at short distances from the shore or from a boat. Donks of this type are called “zakidushki”. There is little sporting interest in their use, but the performance is good. In such gear, instead of the main fishing line, a nylon cord is used, to which leashes with a diameter of 0.5-0.8 mm are attached, but otherwise its design is no different from that described above.
When fishing from the shore, such equipment is tightly tied to stakes, bushes, trees, and while in a boat, it is held by hand (but in no case is it wrapped around the palm!). Donks, as a rule, are used at night, throwing them in the evening and checking them in the morning.
To learn more:
Using a non-hooking frog: what fish is it effective on?
Spinning
Using such equipment, catfish are caught in those reservoirs where the holes are located close to the coastline. Having discovered a depression, the angler can successfully lure out the target of the hunt. But in order to pull it out, you need to properly design the tackle. Spinning for catfish must have a strong rod up to 3 m long. Power reels can be inertia-free or multiplier. The fishing line has the necessary strength margin.
When fishing for catfish with a spinning rod, jig baits and large spoons work well. But some fishermen prefer silicone products (twisters and vibrotails) of large sizes with heavy weight heads. The insertion of artificial nozzles should be done smoothly and slowly, avoiding sudden jerks and long stops.
Catching catfish by trolling using boats has also proven successful. By attaching to the stern or holding in your hands a powerful spinning rod with a baitcasting reel and placing a deep-sea wobbler on a braided cord, you can achieve the desired result.
Transmissions
The tackle is not similar to a standard donka except for the number of hooks attached to it. Accordingly, its use in different regions may be limited by time of year or prohibited altogether. Before you go to a reservoir with such equipment, you must take into account all legal requirements so as not to find yourself in an unpleasant situation when meeting with representatives of the fisheries inspection.
The design of the saddle is quite simple: a weight is attached to the main core, 0.6-0.8 mm thick and 25 to 40 m long (a nylon cord is also suitable). At a distance of about a meter from the weights, tie a leash 40 to 50 cm long with a hook. The amount of undergrowth can be varied. Then one end of the tackle is tied to a tree or peg on the shore, and the second (with a sinker) is thrown into the water so that the vein is stretched.
Kwok
Use of this device requires a boat. At half-water, an appetizing bait is lowered under it on a fishing line. Some fishermen hold the string in their hands, others use rods to which a reliable catfish reel is attached. From time to time, the hunter strikes the water with a kwok (a structure made of a handle, a cutwater and a hoof). The vibration arising from its use forces predatory giants to leave their secluded places and go hunting. With this method of fishing, it is important to practice the nodding technique.
To learn more:
The best silicone for perch fishing
Zherlitsy
In terms of their design, the devices resemble donks, but they are equipped with a smaller number of veins. Traditionally, such gear is tied to coastal bushes and trees, using large baitfish or a frog as bait.
TOP 5 best reels for catching catfish
Flagman Big Cat 8000 reel
A catfishing reel from a boat released in 2021 and available to all anglers who want to purchase a quality product at an affordable price. It has four bearings, a one-way clutch and an anti-vibration system. Thanks to the graphite body and aluminum spool, it is more or less lightweight.
Catfish reel Banax Triton Boat 5000 Long Cast
The quality and functionality of the reel are well developed. The 3.7:1 gear ratio and 6 bearings increase the level of traction under heavy loads.
Spro Power Drive Spin 8.000
Popular brand, very powerful device. The towing capacity reaches 30 kg. The design is covered by a waterproof casing, which differs from others in its high level of quality, as it is made of aluminum.
Reel RYOBI CARNELIAN
Although the reel weighs only 880g, its power is enormous. The device is capable of competing with multiplier products. Designed to catch only heavy trophies. Metal body, 10 bearings, two overrunning clutches.
Features of seasonal fishing
Spinning catfish fishing will vary depending on the season.
In spring, when the water temperature warms up to 8-9℃, catfish are just beginning to become active. At this time, closer to noon, they leave their wintering pits, moving to shallow areas of the water area, where they look for food.
As the water warms up to 15-17℃, their activity increases, and a pre-spawning feast begins. At shallow depths, light oscillating spoons and wobblers work well. The wiring should be uniform and not fast. At depth, jig baits with “step” type wiring perform better.
When the water warms up to a temperature of 20-22℃, catfish begin to spawn. At this time, their fishing is prohibited. Spawning lasts about 2-3 weeks, after which the second peak of active biting begins. Among fishermen, this period is called the post-spawning zhor.
With the arrival of hot summer, the catfish becomes sedentary and rests in holes throughout the daylight hours. Actively feeds mainly only in the morning, evening and night hours. At this time, it is caught on shallows that have warmed up during the day and on shell rocks, where it goes out to feed.
In autumn the bite is not stable; during certain periods it can actively feed during the day and at night. At the beginning of autumn, there is still a chance of catching catfish on a spinning rod in the shallows, but with the onset of cold weather, it moves closer to the wintering holes. At this time, placing artificial baits, as well as in early spring, should not be too fast. The most effective baits at this time are those that create a noise effect when retrieving.
