Target Pre-Spawn and Post-Spawn Catfish
- Not all catfish in a body of water spawn at the same time, so there will still be pre-spawn and post-spawn catfish actively feeding [2].
- Pre-spawn catfish can be targeted by fishing aggressively in current breaks, troughs, and other typical catfish areas as they prepare to spawn [2].
- After spawning, catfish need to replenish and feed heavily, so target post-spawn catfish that have finished guarding their nests [2].
Fish Away from Spawning Areas
- Male catfish guarding nests will be very lethargic and difficult to catch [1][2].
- Instead of fishing directly on spawning areas/nests, fish in other areas of the lake/river away from spawning cavities and dens [2].
Use Typical Catfishing Techniques
- Since pre-spawn and post-spawn catfish will still be actively feeding, use typical catfishing techniques like cut bait, live bait, and searching for areas with current/structure [2].
- The spawning males may not be interested, but the pre-spawn and post-spawn catfish should respond to normal catfishing presentations [2].
Be Patient and Mobile
- The peak of the spawn may only last 2-3 weeks in stable conditions [2].
- If bites are slow in one area, be mobile and keep searching for active, feeding catfish that are not preoccupied with spawning duties [2].
So in summary, by targeting pre-spawn and post-spawn catfish with typical techniques away from spawning areas, and being patient and mobile, you can still catch catfish reasonably well even during the spawning period [1][2].
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