Understanding the role of the pollster
A fishfinder is much more than a simple depth finder. It provides a more or less detailed identification of submerged structures and can be used to spot fish. But for catfish, a predator that prefers cluttered areas or deep pools, the depth sounder needs to be precisely tuned.
How to set up your fishfinder for catfish fishing
In this article, I'll be talking about Garmin sounders, not for commercial purposes, but because they're the only ones I know and master! Success starts with the right configuration.
- Frequency : set the frequency of your fishfinder to suit your environment. A low frequency, typically 77 or 83 kHz, offers a wider but slightly less accurate cone of detection, ideal for exploring pits where catfish hide. On the other hand, a higher frequency (200 kHz) provides a more detailed image, useful in shallow areas.
- Sensitivity : adjust the sensitivity. Too high a sensitivity can create interference on your screen, while too low a setting can mask important information. Take your time to find the right balance. Depending on the density of the water, a sensitivity adapted to your usual spots will have to be modified if the water is "chewed up" by rain.
Interpreting sounder data
Your fishfinder screen displays a multitude of information that you must learn to decipher. My advice for the teaser: adapt to it! Start fishing and detect it on your screen. Then lower the sensitivity accordingly. If a 25/30 cm teaser is too thick on the screen, the detection of fish and their sizes will be erroneous. Be aware of relief variations and clusters of forage fish. Catfish often position themselves on the edge of pools or near structures. Identifying these strategic areas will help you avoid unsuccessful attempts.
Adapting to different catfish reactions
Here's what I've learned from my experiences:
- Curiosity without attack: the echo rises slowly off the bottom. The thickness on the sounder doesn't increase, remains yellow, then disappears just below the worms. Don't linger: it was a curious little one.
- Observation and hindsight: the echo rises slowly, this time becoming bigger and brighter as it approaches your worms. The catfish is well within the sonar cone, just below, and interested in the bait. If he doesn't take the bait, turn around and pass it again - he may still attack!
- Quick attack: the echo arrives very quickly, sometimes impressively. The catfish will come up like a bullet, right at your worms. Hold on tight to your rod: the bite will be violent! A hungry catfish doesn't miss. He'll suck in a bunch of worms like a piece of candy and let you know it. The fight is on!
Mastering the use of your fishfinder is a continuous learning process that requires patience and experimentation. By adjusting your settings and analyzing the data accurately, you'll maximize your chances of catching catfish.
