Catfish is my go-to when it comes to a fish fry There's just something about that unique flavor that reeled me in, pun intended. Oklahoma is teeming with these delicious creatures. The top three catfish species that Oklahomans can't resist are the channel catfish, blue catfish, and flathead catfish.
Channel catfish can be found all over Oklahoma waters, making them the go-to catch for many anglers. Thanks to the efforts of ODWC's Fisheries Division, these fish are stocked and ready for the taking.
If you're looking for a challenge, head to the major rivers and reservoirs in the state to find the elusive Blue Catfish. Their fighting spirit will keep you on your toes and make for an exhilarating fishing experience.
Flathead catfish, on the other hand, are the skilled hunters of Oklahoma's waters. They have adapted to the warm creeks and rivers of the state, earning them the nickname "mud cats." These sneaky fish will keep you guessing and make for an exciting catch every time.
Catfish love to get busy in late May, and they don't stop until a couple of months later. The female catfish is a real overachiever, laying about 10,000 eggs that will hatch in 6-10 days, depending on how hot things are getting.
If you want to reel in these bad boys, the Oklahoma Wildlife Department suggests using a medium to extra heavy rod with some strong line. Braided line is the way to go - it's tough and won't give out on you like those flimsy monofilament lines. These catfish are everywhere, so you won't have to go far to find them.
When we're on the hunt for catfish, we like to drift through Waurika Lake and drag the bottom. We've had some pretty good luck hanging out around underwater trees and rocky bottoms. Who knew catfish were so picky about their hangout spots?
Catfish are not known for their discerning palates. They will devour just about anything you throw at them. From hotdogs (yes, even ones soaked in cherry Kool-Aid powder) to live or dead shad, stink bait (which, let's be honest, smells like death), chicken livers, and even dog food. So go ahead, pick your poison and have a blast reeling in those bottom feeders.
Wishing you a day filled with smooth sailing and reeling in those massive fish that are totally not exaggerated. Enjoy your time on the water!
Information from https://www.wildlifedepartment.com/