Tools of the Trade
The September issue of CatfishNOW is all about getting more from your time on the water. Whether you’re looking for new gear, using electronics to locate trophy catfish or outfitting your boat for greater efficiency, the right tools can make a big difference.
Our three feature stories each approach catfishing from a different angle, but they share a common theme: knowledge and preparation can help you become a better angler.
Richard Simms takes us to ICAST 2026 for a look at some of the newest products coming to the fishing market. ICAST is always an exciting place for anglers because it offers a glimpse at the equipment and technology that may soon find its way into our boats and tackle boxes. Not every new product will be a must-have, but there are always innovations worth watching. Richard’s report highlights some of the products that caught his attention and could benefit catfish anglers.
Other new products for live-bait storage, livewell and bait containers, and water conditioners were numerous. It is good to see innovative approaches to tackle and its storage. Our industry is alive and well.
What’s Hot from ICAST 2026
What’s Hot from ICAST 2026 By Capt. Richard Simms The annual show of the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades, better known as ICAST, wrapped up July in Orlando, Florida. It is known as the largest fishing tackle show in the world, typically featuring every new fishing product made, so far anyway. While there weren’t [...]
Technology for Finding and Catching Trophy Catfish
Today’s electronics give catfish anglers an unprecedented look at underwater structure and fish. But as experienced anglers know, the real test comes when that technology helps put a catfish in the boat. Technology for Finding and Catching Trophy Catfish By Rodney Crimm Finding where trophy catfish hide and feed is the first step in […]
Rigging a Catfish Boat
The author’s Kingfisher guide boat on the water and working. Durick runs eight rods at a time for customers, with everything in it’s place to facilitate efficient fishing. Rigging a Catfish Boat Story and photos by Brad Durick There is no wrong way to rig your new or new-to-you boat. There are ways to […]
Catfish Basics: Bankfishing Tips
Catfish Basics: Bankfishing Tips Story and photo by Keith “Catfish” Sutton Bankfishing is one of the simplest and most accessible ways to catch catfish. You don’t need an expensive boat or a truckload of equipment. You need a good location, the right presentation and a willingness to move when the fish aren’t cooperating. Pick the […]
Catfish Gear: Driftmaster No-Drill Rod Holders
Catfish Gear: Driftmaster No-Drill Rod Holders By Keith “Catfish” Sutton When you’re chasing big catfish, good rod holders aren’t just convenient accessories. They’re an important part of the fishing system. Whether you’re anchored over a deep river hole, drifting a flathead rig along a bank or suspending live bait over deep structure, you need […]
Catfish Conservation: Black Blotches on Bullheads: Should Catfish Anglers Be Concerned?
About a third of brown bullhead catfish in Lake Memphremagog, which spans the Quebec-Vermont border, have black spots and lumps. A new study shows these are a kind of contagious cancer. (Photo Courtesy of Vermont Fish & Wildlife) Catfish Conservation: Black Blotches on Bullheads: Should Catfish Anglers Be Concerned? By Keith “Catfish” Sutton […]
River Rumors: Three Generations, One Record Catfish
Tyler Harmon and his 4-year-old son, Walker, pose with the 72.75-pound blue catfish that set a new West Virginia catch-and-release state record on the Ohio River. For three generations of the Harmon family, it was a fishing memory they’ll never forget. (Photo courtesy of Tyler Harmon) River Rumors: Three Generations, One Record Catfish By Keith […]
Guide of the Month: Billy Clabough – Tennessee River Valley Guide Service
Capt. Billy Clabough loves to take kids of all ages fishing, but kids under 16 years old fish for free on his charter trips. Guide of the Month: Billy Clabough – Tennessee River Valley Guide Service by Capt. Richard Simms Photos courtesy of Capt. Billy Clabough Sometimes life’s biggest setbacks become its greatest […]
CFN How-to Video with Keith “Catfish” Sutton—Don’t Forget to Set Your Drag
A properly set drag can make the difference between landing a big catfish and watching it swim away. In our latest how-to video, CatfishNOW editor Keith Sutton explains why setting the drag on your fishing reel is so important and how the right adjustment allows a fish to take line without breaking your line or […]
