Gathering What You Need for Catfishing the Mississippi River
For many, catfishing the Mississippi River is an exciting way to spend the day. Whether you’re hoping to catch the legendary catfish lurking in the Mississippi waters, or just out for a day of relaxing fishing, the right preparation and gear make a huge difference. Here are a few tips to make sure you’re ready to cast your first line.
First of all, you’ll need the right rod, reel and bait. Most experienced anglers recommend a medium-weight rod and a lightweight reel, with line strength of about six or eight pounds for the rod and about four or six for the reel. Popular forms of bait for this kind of fishing include worms, minnows, shiners and nightcrawlers, both in scented and unscented versions.
You should also pick up a net, a tackle box and a small cooler, as well as a source of drinking water and a few snacks. If you’ll be fishing from the shore instead of a boat, you’ll want an anchor to make sure you stay in place.
When it comes to safety, purchasing a life-jacket and a first-aid kit is highly recommended. Depending on how deep you plan to fish and what you’re hoping to catch, you should also invest in some heavier tackle to help you reel in any larger catfish.
Finally, make sure you bring a few plastic containers, such as Tupperware or Rubbermaid bins. These will come in handy to store your bait, ice down your catch and help you return them to the river later on.
Knowing Where and When to Fish
While you can find catfish of various sizes in many parts of the Mississippi River, some areas are particularly good for anglers. The best spots to fish for catfish tend to be depths greater than 10 or 15 feet, areas with plenty of vegetation and pools of slower-moving water. You can often find these areas near bridges, locks and dams. Most experienced anglers know about the so-called “cat holes,” which tend to be teeming with catfish.
The best times to fish for catfish vary, but most experts agree that the best results are had either very early in the morning or late at night. Catfish are more active in low light, so they tend to come out more when it’s dark out. It’s also important to pay attention to the weather, as stormy days or heavy rains can send catfish into deeper, more inaccessible areas.
For maximum success, anglers should also pay attention to what kind of environment the catfish are living in. If the catfish are living in deeper, murky water, using cut bait and heavier tackle will give you a better chance of catching them. Shallower and more vegetated areas are ideal for light tackle and worms.
While luck is certainly a factor when catfishing the Mississippi River, the knowledgeable angler who pays attention to his or her surroundings has the best chance of success.
Getting That Perfect Catch
Whether you’re a veteran angler or a beginner to the sport, you know when you get that perfect catch. Catfishing the Mississippi River can provide some of the best catches around, both in terms of size and quality. But to get that perfect one, you have to be patient and wait for the right moment.
It’s important to pay close attention to the movements of the fish and the behavior of the bait. When the catfish start hitting the bait, waiting for a few moments before you try to set the hook will usually result in a full belly flop. If you sense some nibbling, that’s a good sign that the catfish are around and ready to be caught.
When the fish takes the bait, setting the hook is essential. To get a perfect hook set, use a strong, downward jerk of the rod. Pulling too soon will result in the bait slipping away, while waiting too long may mean the catfish has already taken the bait before you can strike.
Once you’ve successfully hooked the catfish, the biggest challenge is reeling it in. Play the fish carefully with a steady tug, without letting it break the surface too soon. The longer you can keep it under the water, the better the chance of landing it.
Storing the Fish
Of course, catching the fish is only half the battle. After you catch the catfish, it’s important to store it properly so that it stays fresh. To start, make sure you use proper handling techniques to avoid too much contact with the fish.
Once the fish has been cleaned, it’s time to store it. If you plan on eating the fish, refrigerate it as soon as possible. Saltwater anglers may want to soak their catch in a saltwater bath to help keep it preserved. On the other hand, freshwater anglers can use ice to keep the fish colder and help it last longer.
Freezing is another good option for those looking to store their catch for a longer period of time. First, wrap the fish in plastic wrap, before sealing it in an airtight bag. The bag should be labeled with the date and fish type. Finally, place it in a flat layer in the freezer.
Traveling with Your Catch
If you plan on traveling with your catch from the Mississippi River, there are a few steps to take to ensure it lasts the journey. The most important step is to make sure the fish are properly iced down in an insulated cooler. Make sure to pack plenty of ice for the trip, and wrap the fish in newspaper for an extra layer of protection.
When you arrive at your destination, the next step is to determine what to do with the fish. If it’s for dinner, make sure to cook it within 24 hours. If you plan on keeping it for later, you can freeze it. The last step is to make sure the fish were caught in accordance with all local regulations, and that you safely dispose of any unwanted fish.
Ensuring a Fun and Productive Day
Catfishing the Mississippi can be a great way to spend the day, whether you’re with friends and family or just out to enjoy some peaceful fishing. By taking the time to prepare, gather the right supplies and know where to fish, you can maximize your chances of having a successful and fun day on the river.
By following these tips and advice, you can make sure that your time spent catfishing the Mississippi is both enjoyable and rewarding. With luck, preparation and a little patience, you could be the one reeling in that legendary catfish.
