When targeting catfish, bait selection is crucial for successful angling. Catfish possess a highly developed sense of smell and taste, making the choice of bait a determining factor in attracting and catching these fish. The ideal bait should emit a strong scent, have a soft texture, and appeal to the catfish’s feeding preferences.
Live bait is widely considered the most effective catfish bait, with options such as live shad, minnows, and worms being highly effective. These baits provide both visual and olfactory cues, triggering a strong feeding response in catfish. Cut bait, such as pieces of cut fish or chicken livers, is another popular choice, offering a strong scent that can attract catfish from a distance.