Some catfish anglers swear that some different colors of baits
seem to get more attention than others, when drift fishing, but
most of these baits are also synthetics (rubber baits), and so,
there may be many other factors at play, in this observation -
possibly, different colors present a different texture to the
fish, for example. In general, though, color will have little
impact on the acceptability of a bait for catfish, but scent,
texture and realism are high highly valuable in attracting the
Big Ones.
It may pay to make a reasonable estimate of the depth of the thermocline
when drift fishing, too, or, if possible, run two or more drift
rigs at one time, at different depths, to see where the most action
is coming from. Especially in warmer weather, cats have a tendency
to school and stay where the water is a bit fresher, and this
usually means, in the thermocline.
Chumming can also play a part in your drift fishing experience.
In a waterway with a reasonable current flowing through, which
is often a good catfishing spot, too, pre-chum twice a day for
a few days before you go fishing, upstream of the path you will
float along, to condition the fish to your bait. Then, on fishing
day, really go to town on the chum, about two hours or so before
you set out, and then, once more, half an hour before you go,
using a chum mix which has staying power (oily) and which contains
some of your actual drift fishing bait, in pieces too small to
rate as food. Then, as you drift by, the scent of your much sought-after
and well-presented bait will become a beacon in the dark water,
to all the big, whiskery guys, and some, will take you up on your
offer.
To get the full "Drift Fishing for Catfish" article you'll need to download it here.
