With the summer heat approaching, it’s prime time to catch big catfish! The warm water speeds up their metabolisms, making them more aggressive, feeding more often. Small gamefish and baitfish line the shorelines, bringing hungry cats into the shallows. Although catfish eat throughout the day, they are primarily nocturnal feeders. Thanks to longer days in the summer, it’s easier to target these fish during low-light conditions like sunrise and sunset, however my favorite time to target them is between 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. My favorite summer baits include shad, bluegill, chicken liver, cut bait, and dip bait. So, grab a rod, net, bait, and hit your nearest river or lake this summer!

–Jim O’Neil