Catfishing is one of the most beloved American pastimes. Nothing combines relaxation with thrill as much, especially when you are catfishing in iconic locations like the Mississippi River. Stretching over 2,300 miles, it is one of the most popular locations in the world to reel in monsters while enjoying its scenic beauties at the same time.

Catfishing in the “Big Muddy” can be an exciting experience for both novice and experienced anglers. But getting the most out of your fishing trip is no easy task. So, read on for our essential tips, techniques, and gear you need to successfully catfish the Mississippi River.

In the Mississippi River, you can catch three kinds of Catfish – Channel, Flathead, and Blue Catfish. The biggest ones are usually the Flatheads and Blues. They can grow over 30 inches long and weigh between 20 to more than 100 pounds. Channel Cats are usually around 20 inches long and weigh about 30 pounds.

However, when it comes to reeling one in, it takes a bit of learning and preparation.

When catfishing in the Mississippi River, it is always important to learn about different species that inhabit the waters there. Knowing what to expect and where is important. Here’s why:

Quality gear is important for a successful catfishing expedition. Here’s a list of the equipment you are going to need:

When you are catfishing in the Mississippi, choosing the perfect fishing spot is crucial. It is a vast river and the currents are always changing. That means, not all areas are equally suitable for catfishes and therefore, those aren’t suitable for catfishing either.

Fishing in areas with varied depths, such as drop-offs or channels, increases your chances of encountering catfish.

Some of the most common techniques for catfishing are:

The mississippi is home to Skipjack, perch, shad, and other species that using these fish either whole, or chunks of bait can be effective. If those bait are not effective, using chicken liver or other similar bait can be effective. Bring more than one bait type on board for testing.

Many of the catfish species inhabit deeper areas in the river. Look for deep holes. These can often be dikes, or just other deep area in the river. Some of the local pros say some of the best water is between 30 feet and 100 feet deep.

Catching a monster often requires heavy line. In addition, when fishing deep, a lot of monofilament line can lead to lots of line stretch, making it difficult to set the hook appropriately. Therefore, the local guides use braided line of 50+ pound test to allow for better hooksets, and prevent breakage.

No matter what your skill level is as an angler, catfishing in the Mississippi River is a fun and thrilling experience. You just need to make sure that you understand all the basics. That includes knowing about the catfish species, getting the right gear, selecting the proper fishing spot, as well as using the right technique. These will greatly enhance your chance of a successful and enjoyable catfishing experience.

We highly recommend hiring a guide on the river for your first time out. They will get you on fish, and teach you what often takes years to develop through your own experiences.