Catfish Basics #175, Weather Effects
Story and photo by Keith “Catfish” Sutton
Stormy weather can make catfishing unpredictable. One day, the fish are biting like crazy—on the next, they won’t touch a bait. Understanding how changing atmospheric pressure affects their feeding habits can help you time your trips for success.
As a general rule, the best fishing happens before a storm when the barometer starts to drop. Catfish often become less active a day or two before a front arrives, but as pressure continues falling, their feeding kicks into high gear. This frenzy peaks just before the front moves through and can remain strong until it fully passes. Once the storm is gone, the bite usually slows for a day or two before returning to normal.
Keep an eye on the barometer—when it starts falling and a south or east wind picks up, conditions are prime for an epic catfish bite. That’s your signal to get on the water!
Just remember, while stormy weather can bring great fishing, safety always comes first. Storms can move fast, bringing lightning, high winds, and rising water levels. Always check the forecast, have an exit plan, and never risk it if the weather turns dangerous.
Stay smart, stay safe, and happy fishing!
