Missouri and Georgia value and promote catfishing
It pleases me to see states recognize the value of catfish as a recreational fish. Missouri and Georgia, for example, have recently shared information about catfishing. Missouri shared a release about a catfish clinic coming up in August and Georgia shared information on how to catch catfish and where to do it. Kudos to both states for their promotional efforts. The catfish community appreciates it.
Catfish Clinic at Missouri’s Stockton Lake
Fishing for catfish has long been an activity that has provided angling excitement and excellent table fare.
Individuals interested in learning more about how to catch these popular sportfish should plan to attend the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) program “Discover Nature: Catfishing for Beginners.” This free two-day program will be taught from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Aug. 10 and from 8 a.m. to noon on Aug. 11 at Stockton Lake’s Ruark Bluff Boat Launch in Dade County. This boat launch is located on Route H near Greenfield.
Topics that will be covered include catfish biology and habits, fishing methods and regulations. Information will also be provided on how to clean and prepare catfish.
A portion of this program will consist of fishing for catfish on Stockton Lake. Participants will be fishing from MDC boats. Those 16 years of age and older must possess a valid Missouri fishing permit.
Individuals can bring their own fishing gear or use equipment provided by MDC staff. Personal flotation devices will be provided and must be worn while on the boats.
People must register online for this program at:
https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/157780.
Catfishing Where-to and How from Georgia DNR
A favorite activity of many families is enjoying a day of fishing and then cooking up a “mess” of catfish for dinner. Whether you are a new or experienced angler, you can find fantastic catfishing opportunities in Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.
“There are plentiful opportunities in Georgia for anglers to toss out a line for catfish,” says Matt Thomas, WRD Fisheries Management Chief. “They require relatively simple gear and are a great way to introduce someone new to fishing, especially kids, so get out and go fish!”
Georgia’s public waterways are home to several species of catfish, including channel, white, blue, flathead and bullheads (consisting of several similar species—yellow, brown, snail, spotted and flat). The larger species, blue catfish, and flathead catfish can sometimes grow to exceed 100 pounds and give you a shot at catching a true monster fish.
As summertime gets closer to its peak, WRD highlights some warm weather hot spots and offers tips on techniques and equipment for anglers of all skill levels.
Follow the link to find a long list of places to fish and more techniques for catching the whiskered critters. Learn more by clicking here.
Need a license before you go? Visit www.GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com to purchase a license online or to view a list of retail license vendors or buy a license by phone at 1-800-366-2661.
For more information on fishing in Georgia, visit the http://georgiawildlife.com/fishing/angler-resources.
