How To Catch White Catfish

Do you like to catch catfish? Have you tried catching white catfish? Would you like to learn how to catch white catfish? White catfish are members of the bullhead catfish family. They can be found in fresh and brackish waters along the Atlantic and the Gulf coast from New York to Florida.

White catfish is a bottom feeder where they feed on crustaceans, crayfish, minnows, and other baitfish. They are identified by their forked tail a silver bluish color, and more than 20 anal fin rays. In this article, we will discuss how to catch white catfish, explaining the fishing methods, tips, and tricks, the fishing tackle, as well as the baits and lures.

How To Catch White Catfish

1. Baitcasting

Baitcasting is a popular and effective fishing technique for targeting white catfish in freshwater environments. Anglers typically use baitcasting reels mounted on sturdy rods, allowing for precise casting and control over bait presentation. To catch white catfish using baitcasting, anglers commonly employ a variety of natural bait such as nightcrawlers, cut bait, or chicken liver.

These baits are rigged onto appropriate hooks, such as circle hooks or J-hooks, depending on personal preference and local regulations. When fishing for white catfish, anglers often focus on areas with structure or cover, such as submerged logs, weed beds, or rocky outcrops, where catfish are likely to congregate. Baitcasting allows anglers to accurately place their bait in these target areas and effectively present it to feeding catfish.

Anglers can adjust their baitcasting setups by varying the weight of their sinkers or adding floats to suspend baits at different depths, depending on the water conditions and the behavior of the fish. Properly setting the drag on the reel is essential to prevent line breakage when hooking into a strong-fighting white catfish.

Anglers should also be patient and attentive to subtle bites, as catfish can sometimes take bait with minimal detectable movement. By mastering baitcasting techniques and understanding the behavior of white catfish, anglers can increase their chances of success on the water. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

2. Bottom Fishing

Bottom fishing is a common and effective method for targeting white catfish. Anglers typically use a simple rig consisting of a sinker, hook, and bait combination. The rig is cast out and allowed to sink to the bottom, where white catfish often feed.

Popular baits for bottom fishing include worms, nightcrawlers, chicken livers, and cut bait. Once the rig is in place on the bottom, anglers wait for the telltale signs of a bite, such as a nibble or a steady pull on the line.

Setting the hook promptly is crucial to successfully land white catfish. This method can be employed from various fishing locations, including shorelines, piers, and boats. Anglers should be aware of local fishing regulations and restrictions, ensuring compliance with guidelines set forth by authorities such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

3. Drift Fishing

Drift fishing is another effective technique for catching white catfish, especially in larger bodies of water with moderate currents. Anglers use a drifting rig consisting of a sinker, leader, hook, and bait. The rig is cast out and allowed to drift naturally with the current, covering a wide area as it moves.

Popular baits for drift fishing include live minnows, cut bait, and shrimp. Anglers often employ this method while drifting along channels, drop-offs, or other areas where white catfish congregate. Being able to cover a larger area increases the chances of encountering feeding catfish.

Anglers should monitor their lines closely for any signs of activity and be prepared to set the hook quickly when a bite occurs. As with any fishing method, adherence to fishing regulations and guidelines is essential, and anglers can find relevant information from sources such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

4. Still Fishing

Still fishing, also known as stationary fishing, is a straightforward yet effective approach for targeting white catfish. Anglers select a fishing spot likely to hold catfish, such as near submerged structures, drop-offs, or underwater vegetation. They then cast out their rigs, consisting of a sinker, hook, and bait, and allow them to settle on the bottom.

Popular baits for still fishing include nightcrawlers, chicken livers, and prepared dough baits. Anglers may also use floats or bobbers to suspend their baits at a specific depth above the bottom. Still fishing allows anglers to patiently wait for catfish to locate and take the bait.

It is essential to remain vigilant and attentive to any signs of a bite, as catfish can be subtle in their strikes. Anglers should ensure they are fishing in compliance with local regulations and guidelines set forth by agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

5. Spin Casting

Spin casting is a straightforward and accessible fishing method often employed by anglers targeting white catfish in freshwater habitats. This technique involves using a spin-casting rod and reel combination, which is easy to use, particularly for beginners or anglers who prefer a simpler setup.

To catch white catfish using spin casting, anglers typically rig their rods with appropriate terminal tackle, such as hooks, sinkers, and swivels. Baits commonly used for white catfish include natural options like nightcrawlers, cut bait, or chicken liver, as well as artificial lures designed to mimic baitfish or insects.

Anglers can cast their bait or lure into likely catfish-holding areas, such as areas with structure, submerged vegetation, or along drop-offs. The spin-casting reel’s design allows for accurate casting and easy retrieval, making it effective for presenting bait or lures to white catfish. Anglers can experiment with different retrieval speeds and lure presentations to entice strikes from feeding catfish.

Additionally, spin casting offers versatility, as anglers can quickly adjust their rigs and switch between baits or lures to adapt to changing fishing conditions. Anglers need to remain patient and attentive to subtle bites, as catfish can sometimes exhibit cautious feeding behavior.

By mastering spin casting techniques and understanding the habitat preferences of white catfish, anglers can increase their chances of success on the water. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

6. Trotlining

Trotlining is a passive fishing method commonly used to target white catfish in rivers and larger bodies of water. Anglers set up a mainline, often anchored at each end, with multiple baited hooks attached at intervals along its length. The mainline is then deployed across a section of water where catfish are known to frequent.

Popular baits for trotlining include live or cut bait, such as fish, eels, or shrimp. Once the trotline is set, anglers periodically check it for any catches. Trotlining allows anglers to cover a large area and maximize their chances of catching white catfish.

However, it requires careful setup and maintenance to ensure the lines remain tangle-free and productive. Anglers should be aware of local regulations governing trotline fishing and adhere to guidelines provided by authorities such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

7. Noodle Fishing

Noodle fishing, also known as jug fishing or noodling, is a unique and hands-on method for targeting white catfish. Anglers use floating devices, such as noodles, jugs, or floats, to suspend baited lines in the water. These devices are set adrift in areas where white catfish are present, typically along shorelines, drop-offs, or near submerged structures.

Popular baits for noodle fishing include live or cut bait, such as fish or shrimp. Anglers monitor the noodles closely and retrieve them when they notice any signs of activity, indicating that a catfish has taken the bait. Noodle fishing can be an exciting and rewarding way to catch white catfish, providing anglers with a more interactive fishing experience.

However, it is essential to retrieve and properly dispose of all floating devices after use to prevent environmental damage and hazards to wildlife. Anglers should familiarize themselves with local regulations regarding noodle fishing and follow guidelines established by agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

8. Jigging

Jigging is an adaptable and engaging fishing method that can be effective for catching white catfish in various water bodies. Anglers utilize specialized jigging rigs consisting of a weighted jig head and a soft plastic or feathered lure designed to mimic the movements of prey fish. The rig is repeatedly jerked or twitched in an upward motion, creating an enticing action that attracts the attention of nearby catfish.

This method is particularly productive when targeting white catfish near submerged structures, drop-offs, or along the bottom of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Anglers can experiment with different jigging techniques, including vertical jigging directly beneath the boat or casting and retrieving jigs along the bottom.

Popular jig colors for white catfish include chartreuse, white, and black. It’s essential to vary the speed and cadence of jigging to determine what triggers bites from catfish. Additionally, anglers should ensure they are using appropriate jigging gear, including sensitive rods and reels capable of detecting subtle strikes. Adhering to local fishing regulations and guidelines is crucial to protect fish populations and ensure sustainable angling practices. Anglers can find relevant information from authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Best Baits For White Catfish

1. Worms

Using worms as bait is a traditional and effective method for catching white catfish in freshwater environments. Anglers often prefer worms due to their availability, affordability, and the universal appeal they hold for various fish species.

To catch white catfish with worms, anglers typically thread a whole or partial worm onto a hook, ensuring it remains securely attached during casting and retrieval. Earthworms, nightcrawlers, or red wigglers are popular choices among anglers.

When fishing for white catfish, it’s essential to present the worm naturally, either by allowing it to drift with the current or by lightly bouncing it along the bottom where catfish tend to feed. Anglers can target areas near structures, such as submerged logs, rocks, or brush piles, as these are prime locations where catfish often congregate.

Patience is key when using worms as bait, as catfish may take some time to locate and strike the bait. Anglers must remain attentive to subtle bites and be prepared to set the hook promptly. Additionally, anglers should familiarize themselves with local fishing regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance with size and creel limits for white catfish.

For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

2. Shrimp

Shrimp is a versatile and widely used bait for targeting white catfish in freshwater environments. Anglers often opt for shrimp due to its strong scent, which can attract catfish from a distance. When using shrimp as bait, anglers typically rig it onto a hook either whole or in chunks, ensuring it remains securely attached during casting and retrieval.

While live or fresh shrimp are preferred for their natural scent and appearance, frozen shrimp can also be effective if thawed properly before use. To catch white catfish with shrimp, anglers often present the bait near the bottom, where catfish typically forage for food. This can be accomplished by using a variety of fishing techniques, including bottom fishing or float fishing with a Carolina rig.

Anglers may also choose to add scent attractants or flavors to the shrimp to enhance its appeal to catfish. Anglers need to remain patient and attentive while fishing with shrimp, as catfish may take some time to locate and strike the bait.

Additionally, anglers should familiarize themselves with local fishing regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance with size and creel limits for white catfish. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

3. Cut Bait

Cut bait, often sourced from various fish species like shad, bluegill, or mullet, is a highly effective bait choice for targeting white catfish. Anglers commonly use cut bait due to its strong scent and ability to attract catfish over long distances. To prepare cut bait, anglers typically slice it into small chunks or strips, exposing the juicy, aromatic flesh that entices catfish.

These chunks are then securely rigged onto a hook, ensuring they remain intact during casting and retrieval. When using cut bait for white catfish, anglers often employ bottom fishing techniques, allowing the bait to rest on or near the river or lake bottom, where catfish are known to forage.

Additionally, anglers may opt for float fishing rigs to suspend the cut bait slightly above the bottom, presenting it in the strike zone of cruising catfish. Patience is key when fishing with cut bait, as it may take some time for catfish to locate and investigate the scent trail.

Anglers should also be mindful of local fishing regulations regarding the use of cut bait and adhere to size and creel limits to promote sustainable fishing practices. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

4. Live Bait

Live bait is an excellent choice for targeting white catfish, as its natural movement and scent effectively attract these bottom-dwelling predators. Common live baits for white catfish include nightcrawlers, minnows, crayfish, and worms.

Anglers can present live bait using a variety of rigging techniques, such as Carolina rigs or slip bobber setups, depending on the fishing conditions and preferences. When using live bait, it’s essential to keep it lively and active to maximize its effectiveness. Anglers should also match the size of the live bait to the target fish species and adjust their presentation accordingly.

Additionally, anglers should be patient and allow the bait to entice the catfish naturally, as these species may take some time to detect and strike the bait. It’s crucial to handle live bait with care to ensure it remains healthy and vigorous, as stressed or injured bait may be less attractive to white catfish.

Anglers should also be mindful of local fishing regulations regarding the use of live bait and adhere to size and creel limits to promote sustainable fishing practices. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

5. Minnows

Minnows serve as effective bait for targeting white catfish, offering a natural and enticing presentation that appeals to these bottom-dwelling predators. Typically, anglers use live minnows, although some may opt for frozen or cut minnows as well. When using live minnows, it’s essential to keep them lively and swimming freely to attract the attention of white catfish.

Anglers can present minnows using various rigging methods, such as Carolina rigs or slip bobbers, depending on the fishing conditions and preferences. Additionally, anglers can experiment with different hook sizes and placements to optimize their presentation for enticing white catfish strikes. It’s crucial to select minnows of appropriate size to match the target fish species and adjust the presentation accordingly.

Anglers should also handle minnows with care to ensure they remain healthy and active, as stressed or injured bait may be less attractive to white catfish. Furthermore, anglers should be mindful of local fishing regulations governing the use of minnows as bait and adhere to size and creel limits to support sustainable fishing practices. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can refer to resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

6. Menhaden

Menhaden, also known as bunker or pogies, are commonly used as bait for various species of fish, including white catfish. These oily and pungent-smelling baitfish are effective in attracting predatory fish due to their strong scent and high oil content, which disperses in the water and signals feeding opportunities.

Anglers often use menhaden either alive or as cut bait, depending on the fishing conditions and preferences. When using live menhaden, anglers should keep them lively and swimming freely to maximize their effectiveness in attracting white catfish. Alternatively, cut menhaden can be used to create scent trails in the water, enticing nearby fish to investigate and strike.

Anglers typically rig menhaden on circle hooks or J-hooks, ensuring secure and natural presentations. It’s essential to handle menhaden with care to maintain their freshness and effectiveness as bait. Additionally, anglers should be aware of local fishing regulations regarding the use of menhaden and adhere to size and creel limits to promote sustainable fishing practices.

For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

7. Frogs

Frogs can be an effective bait for targeting white catfish, especially in areas where these amphibians are abundant and serve as natural prey for the fish. Anglers often use live frogs, such as bullfrogs or green frogs, as bait to entice white catfish. The movement and natural appearance of live frogs in the water can attract the attention of hungry catfish, prompting strikes.

Additionally, the scent and vibration produced by live frogs can mimic the presence of live prey, making them irresistible to predatory fish like white catfish. When using frogs as bait, anglers typically rig them onto hooks using methods that keep the frogs active and swimming, enhancing their appeal to catfish.

Alternatively, some anglers may choose to use frog legs or even artificial frog lures to mimic the appearance and movement of live frogs. However, anglers need to check local regulations regarding the use of frogs as bait, as regulations may vary by location to ensure the conservation of frog populations. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

8. Crayfish

Crayfish are a highly effective bait for targeting white catfish due to their natural appeal as a food source for these freshwater fish. Anglers often use live crayfish as bait, as they provide both visual and olfactory stimuli to attract white catfish. The natural movement and scent of live crayfish in the water can mimic the behavior of prey, making them irresistible to hungry catfish.

To use crayfish as bait effectively, anglers typically rig them onto hooks using methods that allow them to move freely, such as threading the hook through the tail or clipping onto the shell. Alternatively, anglers may also use artificial crayfish lures designed to replicate the appearance and movement of live crayfish. When fishing with crayfish as bait, it’s essential to select specimens of appropriate size and to present them in areas where white catfish are known to forage, such as near submerged structures or along the bottom of rivers and streams.

Additionally, anglers should be mindful of local regulations regarding the use of crayfish as bait, as some areas may have restrictions to protect native crayfish populations. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation efforts related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

9. Clams

Clams can be an effective bait for targeting white catfish, offering anglers a natural and readily available option to entice these freshwater fish. White catfish are known to feed on a variety of bottom-dwelling organisms, including mollusks like clams. Anglers often use fresh or frozen clam meat as bait, which can be readily purchased from bait shops or harvested from coastal areas where clams are abundant.

When rigging clams as bait for white catfish, anglers typically thread small pieces of clam meat onto hooks, ensuring that the bait remains securely attached during casting and retrieval. The scent released by the clam meat in the water can attract white catfish, enticing them to investigate and strike.

Anglers may choose to fish with clam bait in areas where white catfish are known to feed, such as along the bottom of rivers, streams, or lakes, near submerged structures, or in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. Anglers need to monitor their lines closely when fishing with clam bait, as white catfish often exhibit subtle bites that may require attentive observation.

Additionally, anglers should be aware of local regulations regarding the use of clams as bait and ensure that they are harvested sustainably and by applicable laws. For more information on fishing regulations and conservation guidelines related to white catfish, anglers can refer to resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

10. Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers can serve as a surprisingly effective bait for white catfish, particularly in freshwater environments where these insects are abundant. White catfish are opportunistic feeders and will readily consume grasshoppers when presented as bait. Anglers can gather grasshoppers from fields, meadows, or other grassy areas using a net or by hand-picking them.

Once collected, anglers typically impale the grasshoppers onto hooks, either whole or in pieces, to create an enticing bait presentation. Grasshoppers are most effective when used live, as their natural movements in the water can attract the attention of white catfish. Anglers often fish with grasshopper bait in areas near the shoreline or in shallow waters where white catfish are known to feed, such as along the edges of vegetation or near submerged structures.

It’s essential to monitor the bait closely and be prepared to set the hook quickly when a catfish takes the bait, as grasshoppers may be consumed more readily than other types of bait. Additionally, anglers should be mindful of local regulations regarding the collection and use of grasshoppers as bait, as certain areas may have restrictions or guidelines in place to protect native insect populations.

For more information on fishing regulations and conservation guidelines related to white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Best Lures For White Catfish

1. Jigs

Jigs are versatile and effective bait options for targeting white catfish in various freshwater environments. These artificial lures consist of a weighted head attached to a hook, often adorned with a soft plastic body or skirt to mimic natural prey. Anglers can use jigs to imitate a variety of baitfish, insects, or other forage species that white catfish commonly feed on.

When fishing with jigs for white catfish, anglers typically cast the lure into areas where catfish are likely to congregate, such as along submerged structures, near shoreline cover, or in deeper pools. Once the jig is in the water, anglers employ a variety of retrieval techniques, including steady retrieves, erratic twitches, or subtle hops, to mimic the movement of live prey and entice strikes from catfish.

Jigs come in a wide range of sizes, colors, and configurations, allowing anglers to tailor their bait selection to match prevailing water conditions and the preferences of feeding catfish. Whether fishing from the bank or a boat, jigs can be a productive bait choice for anglers targeting white catfish. It’s essential to experiment with different jig presentations and techniques to determine what triggers the most strikes in a particular fishing situation.

Additionally, anglers should check local fishing regulations regarding the use of artificial lures and ensure compliance with any size or gear restrictions. For more information on fishing regulations and best practices for targeting white catfish, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

2. Deep-diving crankbaits

Deep-diving crankbaits are effective lures for targeting white catfish in deeper waters where these fish often reside. These artificial baits feature a lip or diving bill at the front that allows them to dive to significant depths when retrieved. The diving action of crankbaits mimics the movements of injured baitfish, making them irresistible to predatory catfish.

Anglers can use deep-diving crankbaits to cover large areas of water quickly, searching for actively feeding catfish along drop-offs, submerged structures, or channel edges. When fishing with crankbaits for white catfish, anglers should experiment with different retrieve speeds and depths until they find the most productive presentation. Varying the retrieve can trigger reaction strikes from catfish, especially during periods of heightened feeding activity.

Additionally, anglers should choose crankbaits in colors and patterns that mimic the forage species prevalent in the area, such as shad or crayfish. It’s essential to select crankbaits with sturdy hooks and hardware to handle the powerful strikes and potential battles with large catfish. Anglers should also check local regulations regarding the use of artificial lures and any size or gear restrictions applicable to white catfish fishing. For more information on fishing regulations and best practices, anglers can consult resources provided by authoritative sources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

White Catfish Fishing Tackle

You don’t need any high-tech fishing gear to target white catfish. Your regular fishing rods ranging from 7 to 11 feet with a 10-14 test line will work. Circle hooks with sizes ranging from 3/0 to 5/0 are a good choice when learning how to catch white catfish.

White Catfish vs Channel Catfish

White Catfish Fishing Tips

1. White catfish are omnivores; they feed on anything from fish to insects to crustaceans.

2. White catfish can be found near muddy bottoms, logs, brush piles, holes, or other hiding places.

3. White catfish feed more during the daytime than other catfish.

4. White catfish may feed at night but are not as nocturnal as other catfish.

5. White catfish spawn in early summer when the water temperature is in the range of 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit in still or flowing waters near sand or gravel banks.

6. Dragging the hook along the muddy bottom will encourage the catfish to bite.

7. Always fish close to the bottom as that is where the white catfish will be found.

8. White catfish will fight hard once it is hooked.

9. The best times to fish for white catfish are at night, early morning, or late in the day.

10. Always carry a net when fishing for white catfish as it will help you catch it when you are reeling it in.

11. When you are reeling in the white catfish, do it slowly and try to tire it out. This will make it easier to reel it in. When learning how to catch white catfish, this is a good approach.

12. White catfish is a delicious fish with firm and white flesh.

13. White catfish like freshwater bodies such as ponds, streams, rivers, and lakes. You can also find them in drainages, reservoirs, and river backwaters.

14. A bottom rig with a 3/8-1/2 ounce sinker will work using live or cut bait when bottom fishing.

15. Circle hooks with sizes ranging from 3/0 to 5/0 will work when learning how to catch white catfish.

The Bottom Line

White catfish are members of the bullhead family that are found at the bottom preying on baitfish, crustaceans, and other marine life. They are found on the eastern coast of the United States from New York to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. They fight hard when hooked are tasty, and are a target for anglers.

In this article, we discussed how to catch white catfish, the best baits and lures, the fishing tackle, and other information to help you catch more white catfish. You can also read how to catch channel catfish, how to catch blue catfish, how to catch flathead catfish, and catfishing tips.