Minnesota River Channel Cat Report 5/9/08

Spring has been along time in coming.

Fishing Mate, Shamu and I decided to see if we could find some catfish action on the Minnesota River for Channels. We had been hearing rumors that the fish might be biting if you could find a spot with slow enough current.

The water level is way up with the run off, with lots of large debris floating down stream.

After trying multiple spots out of the main current we finally dialed the pattern in, bringing plenty of steady action.

Water temps were in mid 50s we were showing 55F – 58F depending on where in we were set up.

The cats were holding 6-10 FOW. We had our best luck out of the main current. The fish were holding in log jams, creeks and any other current breaks you could find, and keep your bait down.

Right now the Channels have a preference on fresh cut bait. Using 3/0 Gamakatsu Octopus Circle hooks, 2-3oz weights with a 12inch leader, your standard on a slip sinker rig.

Through-out the evening we managed to boat 8 channels, with 2 over 9lbs. The majority of the fish were in the 3-6lb range.

When they hit they hammered the bait and started going.

As the water continues to warm and the level comes down a little I expect the fishing to get even better.