Bank fishing for catfish is simple, affordable and confidence-building,
especially for women just getting started. With basic gear and a little
know-how, skills develop quickly. Photo by Kody Lucas
Catfish Basics #179, Shine on the Shoreline
by Keith “Catfish” Sutton
If you’re a woman who’s new to fishing or thinking about giving it a try, bank fishing for catfish is a great place to start. It’s easy, low-cost and can be done almost anywhere. Best of all? It’s fun, relaxing and helps you build confidence in your fishing skills.
Start with the Right Spot
You don’t need a boat. Find a bank with easy access. Many public parks, riverwalks and recreation areas have great catfishing spots. Look for deeper water near cover like rocks, logs or bridge pilings. Evening and early morning are prime times in summer, but catfish can bite all day.
Bring a camp chair, some shade and maybe a friend. It’s your space to enjoy.
Keep the Gear Simple
You don’t have to haul a heavy tacklebox or carry a ton of gear. A medium-heavy spinning combo, some 15- to 20-pound test line and a few essentials will do. Use a slip sinker rig with a circle hook, or even a basic bobber setup.
Pack light, but be prepared. Gloves, pliers and a hand towel can make a big difference, especially if you’re new to handling fish.
Bait Basics
Catfish love strong-smelling baits that ooze juices. Try punch-bait, cut-bait, nightcrawlers, chicken liver or pieces of hot dogs. You can bring a cooler if you plan to keep your catch, but catch and release is great, too.
No need to touch the bait if you don’t want to. Disposable gloves are perfect and easy to pack.
Safety and Comfort Matter
Bank fishing is one of the safest and easiest ways to fish, but a little planning goes a long way. Wear stable shoes (not flip-flops). Pack drinking water, bug spray and sunscreen (but don’t get the latter two on your bait—catfish hate them), And always let someone know where you’re fishing if you’re going solo.
Fishing alone is peaceful. Fishing with other women? That’s empowering.
Hook Confidence, Not Just Catfish
Don’t worry if you’re still learning to cast or nervous about unhooking a fish. Everyone starts somewhere. Ask questions. Watch videos. Practice. There’s a whole community of women out there who fish and love sharing their knowledge.
Catfishing is about more than the catch. It’s about being outdoors, finding calm, building confidence and discovering a new passion you might just fall in love with.
