Spring is finally here and even with low temperatures fishing is getting off to a good start on most reservoirs for cold-water species. Heck, I even got reports of ten pound plus rainbows taken at American Falls reservoir this past weekend. But for warm water anglers what species is first to take an offering thrown in the water? Catfish, and they become aggressive as soon as they prepare to spawn in the early spring.
Some of the biggest fish are taken during this time of the year. Down south during the January and February spawn, cats up to 40 pounds are taken regularly and can be found grouped together. They can be found on mud flats with rock and flats adjacent to sharp drop offs.
My bet right now is Alexander reservoir near Soda Springs. Although your not going to find monster channel cats you will have a shot at fish in the single digits up to 10 pounds with a select few bigger.
Another good bet is the Snake River from Burley down to Twin Falls offering anglers good access along with superb cat fishing opportunities. You can access the river by foot or by boat.
Good areas to concentrate on are bridges, bends and any snags that offer a home to Mr. whiskers. I love to fish river bends probing every hole in the system. If you don’t get a bite within 15 – 20 minutes move on to the next snag. Fish tune in quickly to the smell and should be nibbling at your bait within a short time.
Over the years I have experimented with many kinds of catfish baits. Growing up in Texas I have seen it all. From soap to some of the nastiest, gut wrenching concoctions know to man. Well, it’s all a myth and don’t fall for it! You don’t have to smell like the bottom of your garbage can to catch fish. Liver is also a top bet but it falls off the hook when cast out… here is a better method I have found.
Use uncooked bacon cut up into quarters or 2-inch lengths soaked in blood from a liver container you can purchase at any supermarket. It’s simple, cheap and will land a few fish per bait. Bacon is tough and can withstand casting and does not dissolve off the hook. And the best part, your wife will actually let you in the house after a day on the water in catfish territory.
Go to Www.WesternStatesSportsman.com for Dave Langston’s “Western States Sportsman” outdoor show on the west and also check out Www.Intermountainangler.com where you can post pictures and articles of your favorite outdoor adventures.
