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Finding the right job
In winter, river levels are high and temperatures are low. If you don't know your river well, you'll need a day of observation to find the spots likely to shelter catfish. This is the most important step, the one that will make all the difference, so don't neglect it. These positions can be searched either visually or with an echo sounder. At this time of year, catfish will be found close to or directly over shoals, sheltered from currents or in the edges under submerged trees. Unlike the rest of the year, in winter, catfish show no signs of presence apart from a few loud booms. The same spot may be home to several fish of various sizes, and you may even witness a grouping of several dozen individuals.
Proper assembly
Catfish will detect a scented moving bait better, which is why I recommend a rig set slightly off the bottom for better presentation of the bait and better diffusion of its scent. A line set deep will not perform these functions and will be less effective. For this purpose, a 20 to 80 gram underwater float, cork balls or buldo will be useful, depending on the bait used. The leader will be made of 1 mm mono or 120 lb braid and fitted with single hooks from 6/0 to 10/0 or 2/0 trebles. The whole rig will measure between 1.50 m and 2 m. You can either make them yourself, taking particular care with the knots, or find them in tackle stores. Remember, a catch is only as strong as its thread.
Scented baits
Catfish are as short-sighted as moles and can only see at very close range, so we must rely on our giant's sense of smell. In winter, use naturally scented baits or spray attractants, or combine the two. There's a whole range of baits that can be used in winter, including earthworms (a must), pellets, frolics, boilies and chicken tripe. When it comes to attractant scents, you'll find many different ones: sardine, earthworm, crab, squid, crayfish, blood and many others, some of which are very unpleasant for us, but certainly not for catfish. Like some anglers, you can make your own mixture to attract our king of the rivers. To sum it all up, a good spot, the right rig and a well-presented bait will make you a happy angler in this difficult season.
