All rights reserved. This didn't just happen once. The largest he ever caught was 111 pounds. A fishing experience to last a lifetime. An ancient oxbow of the Mississippi River, Lake Providence northeast Louisianas prime fishing destination. Regardless, we now get to do this crazy form of "fishing" thanks to State Rep. Jack McFarland (R - Jonesboro). Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. "Best trip ever. Give a Gift In fact, Louisiana offers some of the best Catfish fishing in the entire country. Experienced offshore . . Handfishing for catfish recently became legal in Louisiana. A new law legalizing it goes into effect Aug. 1. I was already hooked just going and trying to look for catfish, but when I actually got one it was even better.. Using a charter made all the difference. Roy Dupree, a retired educator who lives on Black Lake in Natchitoches Parish, employs a different, albeit highly successful, method of trotlining for channel catfish on the lake. Turn the legs and thighs of a freshly killed gobbler into comfort food for a chilly spring night. We shouldnt be writing people tickets for this, McFarland said. Our job was to watch the rod tips for bites. "One of the most popular methods of fishing for channel catfish on the river is tightlining such baits as cut shad, night crawlers or stink bait," Daniel offered. "Some anglers set out trotlines and jugs back in the oxbows, and they can catch plenty of catfish. Even so, Lawson offers, a lot of catfish swim these two lakes just southwest of metropolitan New Orleans. For purposes of identification, we've divided the state into three sections, North, Central and South Louisiana. Thanks to the Captain and his Father for the memory." These tasty fish can be found in lakes, streams, and rivers throughout LA. However, these jugs are bobbing with a purpose. Does anyone know any contacts/companies/locals in the area that could take me out???? Report inappropriate content 4. During this time of year, catfish move upstream on spawning runs and congregate at locks, where anglers use outsized treble hooks to snare them. These simple but effective tools, baited with an attractant such as cottonseed meal, allow a catfish to enter -- but not exit -- the trap. Once caught, there are many options on how to cook your catch. The other deal is subject to the same booking conditions youve opted for with The most popular freshwater species in Louisiana are channel catfish, alligator gar, largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, redear sunfish, and black and white crappie. It was exciting when my dad gave instructions to my brother and me to dig a bucket of earthworms from behind the cow barn for use on the fishing trip. . In fact, movement of the water is barely noticeable except during flooding. Flathead Catfish are the next largest Catfish species in Louisiana. All Game & Fish subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. Louisiana has long been a world-famous fishing destination. They prefer large rivers with fast currents and sandy or gravel bottoms. "Just about every legal method you can think of is used here on the river to catch catfish. Come get your noodle on with Big Fish Adventures, and Be the Bait! Let's examine these more popular methods of putting catfish in the boat, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the best areas of the state this year for catching catfish. Instead of a rapidly moving stream, there are now pools that more closely resemble lakes along the margin of the river. Im talking a 67 medium-heavy power rod, with either a 5000 series spinning reel or open-faced casting reel with a 2040 lb test mainline. Other anglers use slat traps to take advantage of fish moving upstream in spring. We always try to have at least three people with us, Wozniak said. Daniel added that while there are catfish to be caught in the stretch of the river that runs through Monroe, the best fishing is downriver from Prairieon to the locks and above Monroe from the Alabama Landing to the Felsenthal locks. Thats the most dangerous part.. And theyre not wrong! Another reason why noodling catfish is illegal in some states is that it can be a very dangerous activity. They are the most fun to catch. Noodling is the art of fishing bare handed for flathead catfish that are monstrous. This region features water averaging 8 to 10 feet in depth, and it's a simple matter for anglers to drift several rods baited with worms over the flats. A new law legalizing it goes into effect Aug. 1. At such times, catfish begin feeding heavily. When fishing in Thailand, youll get to reel in a range of [], Where do you want to go river fishing Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, or Tennessee? There are a variety of techniques to catch them at multitude locations, making them a firm favorite down south. But anglers don't have to take up "noodling" (as the practice is known) to catch cats in our state. But the whiskered creatures are just as prevalent in some of the state lakes as well, including D'Arbonne, Salvador, Poverty Point and Cataouatche. "As a result, I'd recommend the upper and lower stretches of the river where catfish are not nearly as likely to have seen a bait.". "Lakes such as St. John, Bruin, Black River Lake, Horseshoe and Concordia all feature some fine catfishing. What a state we live in. Different areas. Running through Louisiana are some prolific rivers, such as the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers. "There is plenty of current in that portion of the river below the locks, and this particular area is popular with catfish anglers.". The mighty Mississippi River is the main waterway in the state of Louisiana, and youre likely to catch Catfish anywhere along the river or its countless tributaries and channels. You have contacted us immediately after booking with all the details of the other deal So if youre looking for a premier Catfish destination, consider Louisiana. Here are several of 2005's best waters for whiskerfish. "And once all the kinks have been worked out and the water allowed to be diverted in the capacity for which the diversion canal is designed, these two lakes are going to be fantastic for catfish.". How big is the fish? "However, water levels should be approaching normal by May 2009, and fishing should be great. This locally owned bowfishing charter is a great place for any group of friends, families, children, and adults to have a memorable time on the water. Are you looking for "cats" other than the four-legged ones appearing on trail cameras around Louisiana? "The Atchafalaya River, quite frankly, is a great catfishing spot, especially from Simsport on the south. This portion of Louisiana features the Red River, one of most productive catfishing waters in the state. One reason for the basin's fantastic a. ction is the topography of the area. Charters are one piece of the experience, the Marina operations (food, lodging, etc) is another. Are you ready to catch a monster catfish using only your hands? It's very telling that Louisiana's catfish are so abundant that anglers like Donnie Prince of Claiborne Parish can catch them with bare hands. Pair with a medium to heavy action rod. http://www.chriskopf.com/not-pristine-mountain-fly-fishing-trout/. As spring rains fall and river levels rise, water spreads out over the low-lying swampland, inundating stumps, logs and other structure that catfish frequently use for spawning. Join Thomas Allen and son Tommy on an Iowa turkey hunt that resulted in big toms for both hunters. Truth be told, the entirety of Lake Texoma is a premier Catfish fishery, too. No charge for spectators! Average Channel varieties weigh around 48 pounds, but fish over 10 pounds are regularly possible. ", The Ouachita is subject to overflow during extended rainy periods, and when this occurs, some of the most. In the saltwater shallows along the coast, look for speckled trout, redfish, sheepshead, flounder, croakers, black drum, tarpon, and tripletail. Wait, so it was illegal to shove your arm down into a muddy abyss and try to pull out a whopping swamp monster? "You can just about depend on being able to catch catfish on the river this time of year," Daniel said. 2023 Outdoor Sportsman Group. It is legal in Louisiana and a popular activity among anglers on the Ouachita River. Captain Josh was a fish whisperer. Though different tactics are required to catch cats at each location, each is worth a try, according to both anglers and fisheries biologists. Once, his team arrived at the river early in the afternoon, the plan being to take samples that night. People have been noodling catfish in Louisiana for generations, but now the method will be protected in the law. "It's unusual to catch one over 5 pounds. These videos show how they do it. "Among the more popular areas on the Atchafalaya for catfish is the water around the locks at Simmesport, where water is diverted from the Mississippi," said Plonsky. including a link to the offer on the website and the exact price being quoted. Winchester's Nathan Robinson talks features with Game & Fish Editorial Director Adam Heggenstaller at SHOT Show 2023 in Las Vegas. From Wisconsin to Louisiana, where it exits at the Gulf of Mexico there are huge cats and lots of them. There was a problem saving your notification. Adam Young owns and operates PanfishNation.com, a popular freshwater fishing blog for anglers of all backgrounds. Are you searching for a patch of water to scratch your itch for channels, flatheads and blue catfish this year? Especially in the water.. "I think we're taking another look at this because it has become so popular. We found fish of such high numbers each time we did the electroshock samples.". New Orleans, Lafitte, Grand Isle, Venice, Louisiana Fishing, Corporate Charter, Fishing Guide Service, Business Fishing Trips . However, the Catfish season really peaks from early April until late July, when water temperatures are warm and the days are long. . Catfish. and his guide Nate handled the situation like pros Show more Show. Stealth presentations for up-close encounters with bass hiding in cover. Home concoctions can work well, or stock up on bait fish, cold worms, or nightcrawlers. "The lake is currently undergoing a drawdown to try to control the spread of giant Salvinia, a weed that threatens to choke off much of the lake," said Sibley. The best place for catfish noodling is in the Mississippi River Basin. However, other creatures like to hang out in underwater lairs. "Locals call them 'mirror carp,'" Plonsky said. This means: It is for the same fishing charter, package and date(s), It has identical amenities attached (including the meal plan, cancellation policy, Book your next fishing trip with Wicked Fishing Charters Mandeville and explore the beautiful coastal waters of Louisiana like never before! Noodlers fish for catfish by sticking their hands into man-made or natural catfish holes. Additionally, Louisiana is home to smaller species of Catfish such as the Brown Bullhead. This beautiful waterway runs parallel to the Red River and is a top fishery for Catfish. Capt. I say no. Toledo Bend is one of the largest reservoirs in the state at 185,000 acres. Any tips and tricks, or favored locales to share with us? More than one noodler has lost a digit or two to the powerful jaws of a snapping turtle or found himself having to deal with an angry cottonmouth. But dont worry about crowds or industry on this lake. Everywhere I go, people always ask me if this is going to require an extra license, McFarland said. The lower the water levels, the better the fishing. But it can be done! The following size limits apply to state waters:*. Snagging is a legal method of taking catfish (no other species of fish may be taken by snagging) and usually takes place in the state's rivers around locks and dams. If you find your deal on another fishing website at a lower rate, contact ourcustomer careteam. Look for the presence of any wood cover, such as a blowdown, and place the worms or other bait on the upstream side of the cover, where channel cats or blues are likely to be present. The time of year may have been a factor. Its shores are lined with beautiful cypress trees and plenty of stumps and hiding places for Catfish. The LDWF's Daniel thinks that the reason behind the high likelihood of success with catching D'Arbonne's channel catfish is straightforward: The lake's full of whiskerfish. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. We actually call it grabbling, but the Oklahoma Wildlife Department calls it noodling in the regulations. "Cross Lake is one of the best lakes I know of where you can sit in a boat on a day with a slight breeze, bait several rods with your choice of baits, sit back and let the breeze drift you along. Dave chose the 23 Ranger saltwater fishing boat because of its smooth ride. Subscriber Services. Then its likely you already know about the awesome Louisiana Catfish that are available there year-round. For those looking for a little more direction, Ive broken down the best catfishing areas into three main sections. Check out the Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area, where the Mississippi, Red, and Atchafalaya Rivers all converge in a complex system of locks, canals, and swamplands. And extend your stay by enjoying the many activities at the Lake Claiborne State Park. Salty Dog and Captain Corey catching ice chests FULL in the FALL! Kinny Haddox is an avid outdoorsman and writer from West Monroe, Louisiana. During periods of intense rain, water levels can rise quickly on Louisianas many lakes and rivers. Catch Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder and Bass! We went on a Tuesday, and Ryan had access to all of his honey holes. If there's a catfish in the hole, it will often bite the stick with a distinct "thud.". Bass Crash Course: Technique tweaks to maximize distance and accuracy. "For fishermen wanting to put a big flathead in the boat, the best bet is to set limblines with live bait in the channel of the lake. New Orleans Fishing at its Finest! This can be the most unnerving part of noodling catfish. This highly successful method works because catfish are bottom feeders and have no problem locating the bait in the mud. The Atchafalaya River and its surrounding tributaries in southern Louisiana is a giant labyrinth of premier Catfish habitats. For several years I've done weekly fishing reports for area newspapers, and when I call Cooter Anderson, owner of Anderson's Sport Center in Farmerville, I can just about go ahead and jot down the catfish report from the prior week before he answers the phone. A resident basic fishing license is $17, plus an additional $5 hook-and-line permit. The most promising locations for catching a mess of cats are the deeper holes along the river. "The Ouachita is always good," he stated, "one of the most reliable spots to fish for catfish in this part of the state.". This listing has completed an Enhanced check, which is very comprehensive and includes: If you see this badge on a charter or captains profile, that means our team has conducted a basic check using the information available in publicly available databases such as: Catfish fishing in Louisiana varies moderately throughout the year. This is good, clean, family fun. Frying catfish is simple, too. Catching fish in their domain with your bare hands and feet may seem impossible to some, but unto the Bivins family, it has become a family tradition and a passion. All Rights Reserved. "Look for good channel catfishing near the pumping station at Melville," Plonsky suggested. Flatheads are more common in the upper section, whereas you can find Blues and Channels throughout the entire watershed. For more information on fishing for catfish along the Ouachita River, Lake D'Arbonne or Lake Poverty Point, contact the Monroe District LDWF office at (318) 362-3160. "Our equipment has settings that allow us to key in on what species of fish we're trying to stun for samples," Christ said. Targeted Fish Species. Adam Einck, spokesperson for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, said that noodlers should always go out with at least one person, wear gloves to protect their hands from catfish bites, and keep their fingers together when they reach into a catfish hole so they dont break any fingers. You cant swing a cat(fish) without finding a place to catch one of these critters in local waters. Avoid backlashes by making simple adjustments to your reel and matching your lures to your rod's power and action. package offer, etc.). In Daniel's opinion, the best way to catch channel catfish here involves identifying the deeper creek and bayou channels inundated when the lake first filled. Noodling is the art of fishing bare handed for flathead catfish that are monstrous. Noodling guide Chris Barnes holds a 30-pound catfish. In addition, don't forget the sunscreen protection. "In addition to the Pool One area of the Red River near Marksville, the other big river in my district creates lots of attention when it comes to catfish," said David. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on January 23, 2023 I like the natural way because I like finding where they might actually spawn, Wozniak said. Since the law went into effect, the bills author, state Rep. Jack McFarland, said hes been getting the same question from Louisiana residents. The daily creel limit for noodling will be four fish, which will also count as part of a hook-and-line angler's daily limit. While rods and reels are used here with a variety of baits, most catfish anglers opt for trotlines baited with live bait for flatheads or cutbait for blues and channels. Bass Crash Course: Technique tweaks to maximize distance and accuracy. These fishermen use a variety of baits, from commercial blood and cheese baits to earthworms to cut bait.". Captain Mackie Bellott will take you on an unforgettable journey through the untouched waters of Louisianas backcountry where you will be targeting some impressive species that hide below the surface. As the weather warms in spring, anglers and boaters unfamiliar with jug-fishing, are likely to think that "litter bugs" are on the loose in the area, as empty milk jugs and large plastic cola bottles bob about on the lake's surface. Its a huge lake186,000 acresso concentrate on one area and find the fish. They love smelly bait! Youll also need a barrel swivel to connect your mainline and leader to prevent the line from twisting. After his first noodling experience, he was approached by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries about making noodling officially legal. Catching fish in their domain with your bare hands and feet may seem impossible to some, but unto the Bivins family, it has become a family tradition and a passion. There is a 100-per-day aggregate, and anglers can possess up to 25 undersized Catfish of the three species combined. For rod-and-reel catfishermen sitting on the bank, nothing is simpler than to bait a hook with cold worms, minnows, cut bait or chicken livers, cast it off the banks and wait for a bite, which usually won't be long in coming. All Game & Fish subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. Use our contact page to get in touch with us. We are the premier guide service on the Red River of the North. Find fishing boats, charter captains and more. "Anglers along the Ouachita employ a variety of methods to fish for catfish, but the most popular is for bank-fishermen or boaters to tight-line cold worms, cut bait or blood and cheese baits to catch plenty of catfish.". Because of the fertility of the area, nutrient levels are high, and the water quality is unusually good. If youre fishing the swift currents of Louisianas many rivers, you may need as much as 5 ounces of lead to keep your bait down. Wozniak said its safest to noodle with others. Be prepared for fun while fish with Cpt Mike. As productive as is the Red River, there are other water bodies around northwest Louisiana where catfishing is outstanding. Louisiana fishing licenses and permits here. You cant go wrong with standard baits like large earthworms, shrimp, cut shad, shiners, and chicken gizzards. The middle portion of the mighty Mississippi between St. Genevieve and Morganza is littered with oxbow lakes full of Catfish. Hire a fishing charter to guide your saltwater fishing trip in Louisiana. Bass, Crappie, catfish and Bream. If you need advice, just ask at the local bait or tackle stores in these areas. Austin is the proud home of some serious prolific fisheries. He agreed and was determined to make a catch for his team. In Louisiana, some people like to fish by sticking their arm into murky water, feeling around for a catfish, and grabbing them by the mouth. List of fishing charters in Louisiana. However, it is. How you fished before there is different here, trust your captain, May/June and Sept/Oct are better times to fish, but we did ok for such a cold and windy day. Read on to see whichpets are banned in your home state, as well as across the nation. They protect the eggs from attackers. Noodling is a form of fishing that involves catching catfish with your bare hands. We will match the rate of the other deal if the It was recommended to go October thru January for speckled trout. Kinny Haddox is an avid outdoorsman and writer from West Monroe, Louisiana. Another northwest Louisiana lake with good catfish numbers is Caddo Lake on the Louisiana-Texas border, where giant flathead catfish are taken annually on set lines baited with live bait. Noodling, which is when one catches catfish with their bare hands, is legal in Louisiana as of Monday. Fishing at Lake Claiborne: Lake Claiborne, near Homer, is not as big as Toledo Bend, but its 6,000 acres offer great spring catfishing. What are forum guidelines? The Catfish action will be non-stop in those first eight weeks. You will be notified as soon as possible by phone or text of changes due to weather or other circumstances. You can learn more about Louisiana fishing licenses and permits here. A full-time Lake . Based on 26,298 reviews by FishingBooker anglers, data-event-category="Navigation header guest". Locals here use their fingers to entice a bite from a prospective Catfish and wrestle them out of their dens in 36 feet of water. The biggest thing in noodling is that we dont tell people where we go, Wozniak said. "The Ouachita is a really large river system, heading up in Arkansas, flowing into Louisiana at Felsenthal, through the city of Monroe and on south to below Columbia. Blue Catfish are the largest of the bunch, growing over 100 pounds in size. It offers popular fishing from the Arkansas State line at Marion down through Sterlington, Monroe/West Monroe and to Columbia. Feel free to take as many pictures as you like! We lobbed earthworms impaled on stout hooks into the current, using heavy sinkers to keep the bait at rest; the rods were propped onto forked sticks. looking for somewhere to go noodling. This is a turkey hunter's take on the classic Swiss dish. 2023 Louisiana Office of Tourism. One that's smoked first. Its also low in mercury, making it a healthy option, too. Then, the male catfish watches over the eggs. worthwhile fishing areas are in the flooded areas adjacent the river, notes Daniel. Catfish may be taken by means of snagging devices and hand-grabbing. Remember it's not the ocean. Known for its numbers (and not necessarily size) of Channel Cats, there are also a handful of giant Flatheads caught here each year as well. Whether you want to take pictures, watch, or participate, come and go fishing with us and all of your whoppers will be true!! Even if you say a big lake, theyre going to eventually find it if they know what theyre looking for.. Louisiana's loaded with catfish from one end of the state to the other. I ended up getting a 27-pound catfish, Wozniak said. Catfish farms are dotted all over Louisiana, and Channel Catfish are the most popular species in the aquaculture industry. If youre targeting giant Blue or Flathead Catfish, size up to a 4/07/0 circle hook. Only two fish in any daily limit can be blue catfish, and only one fish can exceed 35 inches in length. Because the regulation of exotic animals is left to states, some organizations, including The Humane Society of the United States, advocate for federal, standardized legislation that would ban owning large cats, bears, primates, and large poisonous snakes as pets. This region features water averaging 8 to 10 feet deep, and it is a simple matter for anglers to let the breeze move the boat along over the flats with several rods hanging off the boat, each baited with a piece of cold worm. "The channel catfish we stocked here when the lake was new have grown to impressive sizes," he remarked, "with some up to 10 pounds and larger being caught fairly regularly.". In addition to trotlines, rods and reels and limblines, fishermen also use hoop nets and slat traps, notes Plonsky. The river is a piece of heaven. Others look for natural nests that the catfish made themselves. It could be a freshwater drum or a paddlefish. Now thats Louisiana living! These two south Louisiana lakes, while two distinct bodies of water, are connected by a bayou. The average size would be 10 to 12 pounds, but you could tie into one in the 50-pound or larger range," Moses added. appearances, production, and more. A new law legalizing it goes into effect Aug. 1. We do more than tell them!! Channel Catfish, meanwhile are perhaps best known for their excellent food quality. Wozniak said Louisiana is his favorite place to go noodling but doesnt want to give any of his catfish spots away. | The fish topped the scales at 114 pounds and was caught near Lake Providence on the Mississippi River. Planning a fishing vacation to the Gulf of Mexico? 6 Hours of fun for the whole family, friends or group. Louisiana anglers are infamous for their eclectic choice of baits to catch Catfish. Louisiana also has some noodling and handfishing guides, but if you're smart you'll stay away from states with large gators in the water! Its the most primal fishing you can possibly do, Wozniak, of Shreveport said. While there are plenty of big flatheads in the channels of Lake D'Arbonne, near Farmerville in Union Parish, this lake is noted more for teeming with channel catfish. "I love it when a plan comes together:" Thomas Allen may have missed a day-starting coffee and chill time, but his planning before a recent turkey hunt in Minnesota had him ready when gobblers showed up earlier than expected, and just before an April winter storm blew in.