Stream Resources
CatfishCatfishing is definitely a favorite pastime for many stream fishermen in Oklahoma. With sizes that can exceed 100 pounds, they provide an exciting challenge for fishermen. Also, few things are more fun than catching a mess of catfish and inviting friends and family over for a fish-fry. There are three species of catfish in Oklahoma that are most actively sought after by sportsmen: channel catfish, flathead catfish and blue catfish. Since these fish can grow to such large sizes, it is important to match your gear to the size you most expect to catch. A good all-purpose setup would be a medium action rod with 10 to 12 pound test line. If you anticipate catching larger fish (greater than 10 pounds), a stout heavy action rod with 20 to 50 pound test line may be more appropriate. These fish, no matter the size, will put up a tough fight, so be prepared for action! Other methods of taking these fish are trot lines, limb lines, jug lines and yo-yo’s. Be sure to check the regulations regarding fishing for catfish in your area. Keep in mind when selecting bait that most catfish tend to feed using smell, taste and touch rather than sight. Channel Catfish Channel catfish are the most common variety found in Oklahoma streams and therefore the most popular. Channel cats can be caught readily on “stink” baits, cut bait, live bait and occasionally artificial lures. Channel cats are the smallest of the three, rarely exceeding 50 pounds.
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Flathead Catfish
Flatheads are the only one of the three catfish that is not officially recognized as a sport fish in Oklahoma, however there are regulations governing them, so be sure to check before heading out to catch them. Flatheads can grow much larger than channel cats, exceeding 100 pounds. They feed primarily on live bait: shad, large minnows, goldfish, sunfish, crawfish, etc. These fish are also popular for “noodling”. Be sure to check regulations to see where it is legal and novices should go with experienced noodlers before trying this sport on their own, as it can be very dangerous.
Blue Catfish
Blue cats are the largest of the three and can easily exceed 100 pounds in weight. Blue’s feed primarily on live sunfish, crawfish, shad, etc. They can be found in most large river systems, primarily the Red and Arkansas River systems.