Catch Catfish From the Bank | Bobber and Bottom Setups - Wired2Fish

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Kyle Wood takes you on an informative bank fishing trip targeting catfish. He demonstrates straightforward techniques on how to catch catfish in ponds, small rivers, and lakes. No need for complex gear—just the essentials: rods, weights, hooks, swivels, and bait. Wood shares tips on setting up float and bottom rigs, increasing the chances of hooking into channel cats.

When fishing from the bank, you don’t need complicated setups. Wood prefers two rigs: a float rig and a bottom rig. He uses a slip bobber that adjusts from 2- to 20 feet deep. The float rig allows you to fish suspended cats that many anglers overlook. The bottom rig uses a no-roll sinker and a short monofilament snell. In both scenarios, Wood uses a braided mainline and a monofilament leader to connect to the hook, making it easy to break off while keeping your other components intact.

Bait choice can make or break your trip. Wood stresses using fresh cut bait, such as bluegills, shad, or other local forage. He cuts bluegill into chunks, focusing on headpieces that hold up well during long casts. Ensure your hook point stays clear of scales, as even small obstructions can prevent a hookup. Wood emphasizes the importance of legality—always check your local regulations before using certain bait types.

Positioning is crucial. Wood suggests targeting wind-blown points or shallow flats, as these areas often hold more active catfish. Adjust your bobber position for optimal visibility and minimal resistance. Circle hooks allow the catfish to hook themselves, reducing the need for constant attention.

Kyle is the resident adventurer with an adept eye for a good shot and the training and expertise to bring a lot of dynamic content to Wired2fish videos. His underwater footage and aerial photography help set Wired2fish’s content apart from the masses. He’s an avid freshwater angler adept at catching a lot of different kinds of fish in a lot of different ways and places.