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The advantages of kayaking when searching for catfish
Being able to prospect with total discretion is a real asset when fishing for catfish. In fact, kayak fishing emits very little noise and vibration, making it possible to get close to wary catfish on clean bottoms or frequented pools.âeuros
Mobility is also important in the search for fish. With a kayak, you can quickly cover large stretches of river or lake, following echoes or breaks with a depth sounder.âeuros
What's more, having a direct fighting line increases the sensations during the fight. Sitting flush with the water, you can feel the full impact of every headbutt from a big fish over 2 m long, with the occasional "walk" as the catfish pulls you along.âeurosâeuros
Recommended equipment
A stable, decked kayak, ideally seated high, with good handles and attachment points (fishing seated, never standing on catfish).âeuros
A powerful rod (80âeuros200 g or more), accompanied by a sturdy reel fitted with strong braid (min. 40âeuros50/100), and a very abrasion-resistant leader.âeuros
Additional equipment is required: a depth sounder to locate pools and fish, a floating anchor or light grappling hook, long hooking pliers and a glove for handling fish.âeuros
Specific techniques for catfish fishing
Various fishing techniques can be used to target catfish from a kayak.
Vertical fishing / sharp shooting : we follow the echoes on the depth sounder and present a lure or a livebait right in front of the kayak, sometimes pélagique on suspended fish.âeuros
Clonk fishing teasers and live bites : in slow drifting, a teaser or a live shot presented close to the bottom often triggers large subjects ambushed in pits or against obstacles.âeurosâeuros
Sight fishing on the edges: on certain clear rivers, attacks occur under the foliage or at the edge of the current, using soft lures, heavy shads or large diving crankbaits.âeuros
Safety and regulations
- A 50 N vest is compulsory, as well as clothing suited to the current and water temperature. A catfish over 2 m long can unbalance a kayak, especially in a powerful river.âeurosâeuros
- Anticipate drifts: always provide an area to fight and bring the fish closer to the bank, avoid current veins, bridge piles, drowned trees.âeurosâeuros
- Respect local regulations (zones, periods, techniques, transport of live fish) and practice no-kill on large fish, which are very important for population dynamics.âeuros
Practical tips for getting started
Always start on a calm stretch of water or a slow-moving river, with modest-sized fish, to get the hang of kayaking in combat.âeuros
Fishing with two kayaks or with a companion ashore, take waterproof telephone, light, spare clothing and indicate your navigation plan.âeuros
Simplify the deck: few rods, few boxes, everything attached by leash, to avoid losing gear or getting tangled up during a powerful fight.
