Gear & Tackle

Species / Blue Catfish / Alabama

Catfish

Blue Catfish Fishing in Alabama

The largest North American catfish, common in big Southern and Midwestern rivers and reservoirs. Trophy blues often come in winter on cut shad.

Best Months: Nov to Mar

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Plan by Month

Best Flies, Lures & Bait for Blue Catfish

Month

2 picks for October.

  • Live Minnows 1 to 3 in

    Bait

    Live Bait · Live shad or skipjack.

  • Cut Shad Chunk or fillet

    Bait

    Natural Bait · Fresh is best.

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Rod & Reel

Blue Catfish Setup

Blue Catfish

Spin / Cast 7.5 to 8 ft medium-heavy casting rod, 5000 to 6500 levelwind reel, 30 to 50 lb line, 7/0 to 8/0 circle hooks.

Alabama

Where to Catch Blue Catfish

Lakes & Reservoirs · Alabama

Wheeler Lake

A Tennessee River impoundment with ledges that hold bass and trophy blue catfish.

Smallmouth Bass · Largemouth Bass · Blue Catfish

Alabama

Shops to Stock Up

Recommended

Gear for Blue Catfish

Rod & Reel Combos

Ugly Stik Catfish Special Combo

A stout, long rod with a large reel for heavy sinkers and big cats.

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Terminal Tackle

Gamakatsu Circle Hooks

Circle hooks set themselves in the corner of the mouth and make release easy.

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Terminal Tackle

Egg Sinkers and Swivels

Egg sinkers, swivels, and beads for slip-sinker and Carolina rigs.

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Blue Catfish Fishing by State

Alabama (1)Kentucky (1)Oklahoma (1)South Carolina (1)Tennessee (1)Virginia (1)