Channel Cats

[Eli]

I have a strong love-hate relationship with channel cats. On the one hand they can be a huge nuisance by taking carefully presented baits intended for other species. On the other hand, when intentionally targeted, the large ones are very fun to catch.

Things to keep in mind:
-as they get larger they become much less omnivorous and have a diet that consists almost exclusively of fish. This is why large cats are rarely caught on worms.

-raw shrimp will catch on average larger cats than worms, especially when the crayfish are molting. Live bait and cutbait catch the biggest cats. I like smelt for cutbait. Fresh is always better than rotten.

-areas with steady current are usually a good place to put your bait because the scent will carry downstream and draw the catfish to your bait.

-cats have taste buds on their entire bodies so finding bait in dark water is a non-issue.

-large cats tend to feed more at night and early morning hours. This becomes more prevalent as the water warms to summer temperatures. The clearer the water, the more nocturnal the cats.

-stay close to your rod when using cut or live bait as the bites tend to be brutal. Invest in a baitrunner reel if you can't watch your rod closely for prolonged time periods. The one time you turn around to pee is the time you rod goes in the drink.

I tried smoked channel cat for the first time last week and it was some of the best fish I've ever eaten. Simply delicious. When fried I find the meat too soft.

Only targeted cats once this season and this was the biggest. Plan is to do a July overnight session on the St. Lawrence for some real giants.