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.
SLIP BOBBBER SETUP
- FLOATS – Check out at Bass Pro Shops
- FISHING WEIGHTS & SINKERS – Check out at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE (braided mainline) – Sufix 832 Advanced Superline Braid Fishing Line, 50-pound Low-Vis Green: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- SWIVEL – VMC Rolling Swivel: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE (mono leader) – Sufix Superior Monofilament Fishing Line, 30-pound Hi-Vis Yellow: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- CATFISH GEAR – Check out at Bass Pro Shops
SIMPLE GEAR FOR BANK FISHING CATFISH
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.
BOTTOM/SLIP SINKER SETUP
- SINKERS – Bass Pro Shops No Roll Sinker: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- HOOK – VMC 7384 Sport Circle Hook, 5/0: Buy at VMC
- LINE (braided mainline) – Sufix 832 Advanced Superline Braid Fishing Line, 50-pound Hi-Vis Yellow: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- ROD HOLDER – RM Industries Spiral Rod Holder: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE (mono leader) – Sufix Superior Monofilament Fishing Line, 30-pound Hi-Vis Yellow: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
MISC.
- KNIFE – Rapala 7″ Saltwater Fillet Knife: Buy at Rapala
- SCISSORS – Rapala Super Line Scissors: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
FRESH BAIT: THE KEY TO SUCCESS
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.
TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE BANK FISHING
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.
