There is one important task in catfishing that you do not want to learn the hard way. The last thing I want to see is a client losing a good fish because of something I missed.
Before every fishing outing, I always check my leader line for abrasions and nicks. Even small nicks in your leader can lead to complete failure and maybe even losing a fish of a lifetime. Obviously, you do the same if you encounter any reason to think you might have developed a nick or abrasion while you are fishing.
Common causes of nicks and abrasions in your leader line occur when you fish around large rocks, concrete pieces, submerged metal, and other very abrasive objects.
You can check your line by lightly squeezing your thumb and index finger together and running them down the leader line to feel for the nicks or abrasions.
If any inconsistencies are found while performing the check, change out the leader line immediately. When that trophy cat is on the line you will be glad you did.
Editor’s note: Capt. Terry Rogers is the owner/operator of Hooked on Cats Guide Service. He guides out of Paducah, KY from a fully equipped 2021 SeaArk ProGuide boat with a Suzuki 250 hp outboard. Capt. Terry can be reached by email at rogerscatfishing@gmail.com or phone at (270) 210-4308. Check out his website at hookedoncats.net and follow him on Facebook.
