Catfish NOW – Nov 2024

Casting Lines and Building Bonds: The Power of Family in Catfishing

By Keith “Catfish” Sutton, Editor

The November issue of CatfishNOW focuses on an important aspect of fishing: family. Whether it’s introducing the next generation to the joys of fishing or continuing a family tradition, catfishing brings people together in ways that create lasting memories. As we dive into the theme of “Family Friendly Catfishing,” this issue celebrates the connections and experiences that fishing fosters within families and communities.

Brad Durick’s article, “Catfishing With Kids,” captures the delicate balance of introducing children to fishing while allowing them to develop their own pace and interest. Brad shares his journey of guiding his son, Braden, into the world of fishing, starting from simple outings and building up to the point where Braden is now a skilled, independent angler.

Catfishing With Kids Story and photos by Brad Durick

Braden Durick, the author’s son, in 2016 when he was six years old. This was the day Braden discovered that catfishing is amazing. Catfishing With Kids Story and photos by Brad Durick It is vital to get kids introduced to fishing and the outdoors. We must get them started early and kee[ them interested. After […]

Mentoring Matters Story and Photos by Coy Lee Payne

Catfish of all sizes make a kid happy; you don’t have to catch big fish or even lots of fish; just have fun doing it. Mentoring Matters Story and Photos by Coy Lee Payne   I was blessed in my youth to have two adult fishing mentors who shared their love of the sport with […]

Family Tradition: Camping & Fishing at Council Grove Story and photos by Brent Frazee

Sean Honer (left) helped his granddad Dutch land a channel catfish at Council Grove Reservoir in east-central Kansas.   Family Tradition: Camping & Fishing at Council Grove Story and photos by Brent Frazee Four generations of family bond at a Kansas reservoir.   As Walt “Dutch” Honer lays in a hospital bed, convalescing from complications […]

Catfish Basics #171—6 Structures That Always Hold Catfish Story and photo by Keith Sutton

The tailraces below big-river dams frequently hold huge numbers of catfish. (Photo by Keith Sutton)   Catfish Basics #171—6 Structures That Always Hold Catfish Story and photo by Keith Sutton Learn how to identify key areas where you can enjoy consistent catfishing success. Catfish are masters of blending into murky waters, but they have favorite […]

Catfish Gear #82

Power-Pole MICRO Anchor By Derek Mays The Power-Pole Micro Anchor can hold johnboats and small skiffs up to 1,500 pounds (including passengers) and is perfect for kayaks and paddle boards.  The Power-Pole MICRO anchor is the ultimate shallow-water anchoring system for anglers seeking versatility on kayaks, canoes or other small boats. Lightweight and easy to [...]

Winter Fishing Fun By Keith “Catfish” Sutton

A boy and his father try their hand at ice fishing at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. This is a fun winter activity parents can share with their children.   Winter Fishing Fun By Keith “Catfish” Sutton Keeping kids engaged when the weather turns cold. Fishing with kids is one of the best ways […]

Freshwater Fish Stamp Celebrates 20th Anniversary

During the past two decades, the Texas Freshwater Fish Stamp has helped fund the production of more than half a billion fish, including catfish, for stocking in Lone Star State waters.   Freshwater Fish Stamp Celebrates 20th Anniversary Source: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Texas stamp has greatly enhanced conservation efforts and hatchery improvements. For […]

Giant Blue Cat Sets New Record

Kimberly Feltner proudly displays the blue cat that set a new length record for the species in West Virginia. (courtesy of WVDNR)   Giant Blue Cat Sets New Record Source: West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Indiana angler Kimberly Feltner subdued the big cat. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has reported that […]

CFN How-to Video with Ron Stallings

Some fishing products are just better than others. Listen as Boss Kat’s Ron Stallings explains why the features on Boss Kat sabiki rigs will help you put more fresh catfish bait in your boat than other brands.

Page From the Past: The Fisherman’s Patience By Izaak Walton

Page From the Past: The Fisherman’s Patience By Izaak Walton The patience required of anglers has been celebrated—and lamented—in countless tales. One such story comes from The Complete Angler by Izaak Walton, a classic text first published in 1653. Walton’s work has been cherished for centuries, not only for its fishing advice but also for […]