Does scent really work? Fishing lures today come impregnated with scent, covered in salt or anglers add scent through sprayed and other substances to the lure itself. The answer is not a simple yes or no answer. It seems to work sometimes, then other times it does not. 

While not as active as other fishing (trout or bass), where you as the angler are constantly changing lures, casting and altering retrievals, catfish anglers will tell you that fishing for these giants offers some of the most challenging fights you can have on the water. Like many other species, catfish require a variation of tackle that most may not be familiar with. If you’re interested in pulling in a few of these tasty fish then it might do you well to pick up a few new pieces of equipment before you temp the waters.

​The average fish size for whatever body of water you’ll be fishing will have a large impact on the tackle you’ll need. Farm ponds and smaller lakes, where catfish aren’t able to grow that large, will allow you to get away with using a bass setup. However, for those anglers seeking out the larger cats that lurk in the muddy river waters, you may want to look into picking up some heavier-duty tackle to get the job done. High-profile baitcast reels are your best bet for large catfish. These reels are made to hold the heavy line required to secure large fish and basically act as a winch when pulling in a giant catfish. Likewise, the rod you use will depend on the fish size and then the size of the reel you’ll need. You’ll need something with some backbone, so a medium, to medium-heavy action rod of at least six-feet will work well.

Catfish aren’t as skittish as bass, so you can use heavier line. In most cases, monofilament from 15 to 25 lb test will work just fine. For bigger fish, heavier line, or even braided line may be your best bet. Often times, catfish make their homes amidst objects such as logs or stones, and heavier line will ensure that you don’t lose a fish in such situations. Don't be afraid to go with a bigger line if you are confident there are monster cats patrolling the water.

To complete your catfish tackle, you’ll also need to pick up some hooks, heavy sinkers and some sort of float device. Optimal hooks for cats include octopus, O’Shaughnessy and circle. Try to find the smallest hook you can get away with but make sure it’s still strong. Sinkers such as split shots, bells, pyramids and bottom bouncers are popular among catfish anglers, and are used to keep your bait at the bottom, especially when fishing river currents. It may bring back memories of bank fishing as a kid, but bobbers are essential for catfish. Shallow waters will enable you to use fixed bobbers, but slip floats are better when fishing deeper.

For those of you who’ve never hunted catfish before or those that fish for them when the mood strikes, that should get you started off on the water. Top everything off with a few choice baits such as chicken livers, crayfish, nightcrawlers or hotdogs. Bait is nothing special and can usually be picked up at your local grocery store. Catfish are one of the most delicious fish. Filet them up in thin slices, battered in your favorite seasonings and deep-fried. As a game species, they fight hard, require much patience and will make you earn every inch of line you reel in. 

- Phil Manning (FISH THIS)