BEST TIMES

January - March
The Blue Catfish are holding in their winter patterns.  They can be found in large numbers and trophy size fish are caught regularly.  Heavy winter rains can cause major fluctuations in the river, strong and cold winter winds can also hamper a trip this time of year.  However, when conditions are favorable, this is an excellent time of year. For persons that would like to just catch some fish, surprisingly the Channels cats, up to 10 lb. bite quite well this time of year. While fishing with light (Bass) tackle, coolers full of nice eating size fish are common.

April - June
All 3 of the species of catfish are now beginning to move from their wintering spots and feeding heavily in a post spawn frenzy.  This time of year high water conditions are common, however, this is the time for some of the largest fish of the year. In May 2006 I had customers have the best day yet, with 23 fish that weighed 451lbs. and they caught them in about 6 hrs.. Good Channel Cat fishing will also attract fishermen that want to have fast action.  This is the best time for some fat 10+ lb. mean Channel Cats!

July - September
Prime summertime fishing is occurring this time of year.  Blue cats are the most common with Flatheads showing up in the earlier and latter times of the daylight hours.  Hot weather does not prevent the cats from biting on a variety of baits and by several different techniques. This is the best time of the year to drift the currents for some trophy size Blues. Drifting requires more effort and concentration than watching the rods while anchored but in my opinion, the most exciting. One to twenty pound fish are common with occasional trophy size ones being caught.  Stable weather patterns and river levels make this an excellent time of year. Sure, it can be hot but with plenty of fluids, sun screen and proper clothing, it won't be too bad. Once you catch a Big Blue, it won't feel hot at all!

October - December
October is probably the best time of year to catch good Blues and Flatheads.  Comfortable weather and stable water conditions usually make this my favorite time of year to fish.  Until the water temperature falls below 50 degrees, the Flathead will be feeding heavily for the winter.  The Blues will be beginning their winter patterns in the latter months and will be in the full winter pattern when water temperatures get to 40 degrees and below. During the past 20 yrs I have caught tons of big Blues in December and January, however, in 2005 and 2006 things have been tough during these months. I cannot explain why but I believe that if we have a lot of high water in the Spring, Fall fishing is better. If you are ever in question as to how the fishing is on the Miss. River, just give me a call.

   * NOTE: THE BEST TIME EXPLANATIONS ABOVE ARE APPROXIMATE AND ARE SUBJECT TO VARY DUE TO THE FLUCTUATING WATER LEVELS OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER. READ THE TECHNIQUES PAGE TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THE BEST TIMES.