These are just some of the baits you'll find will work well when fishing for catfish. Chicken livers are considered by some to be the best bait ever for fishing catfish. Mainly this is due to the fact that when you prepare them properly they leave oils in the water that the catfish can easily follow. This makes the livers irresistible to any catfish in the area.

You will also find that any natural bait you have is great because the catfish are used to feeding on that specific thing. As long as it's natural in the area you'll be just fine. Finding the right bugs, insects and worms in the area is as easy as poking around and observing what's going on. Live baits can also be left to rot for a few days and the smell will help entice the fish that much more.

Minnows and crayfish are great because even on the hook they can still provide a lot of movement. The only thing about live bait is that it has a lifespan that depends on the bait itself. Mating seasons are great times to use live baits because the fish are going crazy and will bite at just about anything that comes their way. The same can also be said for winter months when food is scarcer.

One of the most commonly homemade baits are dough balls. You can use virtually any dough as long as you don't let it get too dry. Make sure it stays moist and use any number of smelly ingredients to complete the bait. Garlic, rotten meat and other seasoning that has a strong aroma will work great for this. The way you make your dough balls is completely up to you or you can just buy some from a local bait shop.

The bait you use, like any other equipment, is up to you. You have to be comfortable with what you choose and how you use it. When you find something that works, stick with it.

Don't be afraid to try new baits either. Remember there is no perfect bait, the angler is who makes the bait work.

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