Best Daytime Locations to Catch Catfish in Rivers & Lakes

Let’s discuss the best locations to catch catfish when the sun is up. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the game, these insights will help you find and reel in catfish during the daylight hours in rivers and lakes.

During the day, catfish move to deeper, shaded areas in rivers and lakes to avoid sunlight and heat. They become more active at night and venture into shallower waters, often near submerged structures, to hunt for food.

three nice catfish — I caught these 3 flatheads (biggest was about 15 pounds) right before sunset on cut dead bluegills as bait.

Table: Catfish Locations Throughout the Day

Time of Day	Channel Catfish	Flathead Catfish	Blue Catfish
Dawn (Early Morning)	Tend to be in shallower water near deeper holes, especially in rivers. May move into the shallows to feed as light increases.	Likely in cover or near structures like submerged logs, rocks, or root systems. Prefer slow-moving water.	Often in deeper parts of the river or lake, near drop-offs or submerged structures.
Late Morning	Begin to move towards deeper waters as the sun rises higher. Look for them in deeper holes, channels, or near underwater structures.	Stay near cover but may venture into slightly deeper waters to feed.	Continue to inhabit deeper parts of the water body, possibly near structure-rich areas.
Afternoon	Typically remain in deeper waters, especially if it’s a hot day. May stay near structures or cover in the deeper areas.	Still prefer deeper spots but might become more active in the late afternoon. Could move towards the shallows near dusk.	May become more active and move towards shallower waters to feed, especially if dusk approaches.
Late Afternoon/Dusk	More active and likely to venture into shallower waters in search of food. Look for them in shallows near drop-offs, structure, or feeding areas.	May become more active and move towards shallower waters to feed, especially if dusk is approaching.	Can become more active and move into shallower waters in preparation for feeding at night.

Daytime Catfish Locations and Strategies

Finding Catfish Throughout the Day

Early Morning (Dawn):

Location: During dawn, catfish are often close to the shoreline in shallow waters. They move here to feed as the sun rises.
Preferred Features: Look for submerged structures like rocks, logs, and fallen trees near the shore. These provide cover for prey and catfish.
Food Sources: Catfish feed on baitfish and insects near the surface at dawn.
Fishing Conditions: Fishing for catfish can be excellent during this time, especially on overcast days or when the moon phase is favorable.

Mid-to-Late Morning:

Location: As the morning progresses, catfish tend to move slightly deeper. They seek out areas with transition zones like drop-offs or underwater ledges.
Preferred Features: Fish around underwater points, humps, and the edges of channels. These structures create ideal feeding spots.
Food Sources: Catfish continue to feed on baitfish but may also target bottom-dwelling prey like crawfish.
Fishing Conditions: Catfish activity remains good, but it may slow down as the sun gets higher.

Afternoon & Midday:

Location: During the day’s heat, catfish retreat to deeper waters, often searching for cooler temperatures.
Preferred Features: Target deep holes, channels, and areas near dam outflows where water is deeper and cooler.
Food Sources: Catfish become less active and may feed less during the midday heat. They are more likely to scavenge for food than actively hunt.
Fishing Conditions: Fishing can be slower during the afternoon and midday. Catfish may be less interested in feeding.

Late Afternoon til Dusk:

Location: Catfish become more active as the day cools down and evening approaches. They move back into shallower waters.
Preferred Features: Fish around submerged vegetation, rocky structures, and underwater points as catfish become more active.
Food Sources: During this time, catfish actively hunt for prey like baitfish and crawfish.
Fishing Conditions: Late afternoon to dusk is often the best time to catch catfish. They are more active and hungry, making for favorable fishing conditions.

Baits for Different Daytime Locations

Here’s a breakdown of the best baits, hook types, and sizes, and rig recommendations for various times of the day:

Early Morning Live Bait:

Bait: Opt for live bluegills or shad, around 6-8 inches long. These larger baits are enticing to catfish during the early morning hours.
Hook: Use a 4/0 to 6/0 circle hook. Circle hooks are excellent for live bait as they hook the catfish in the corner of the mouth, reducing gut hooking.
Rig: Employ a slip bobber rig to keep your live bait at the right depth. Set the bobber so that your bait hovers just above the catfish’s likely hiding spots. This method ensures a natural presentation that catfish find irresistible.

Late Morning Cut Baits:

Bait: Cut baitfish like bluegill or shad work well during the late morning. Cut them into 2-3 inch chunks, offering a hearty meal for catfish.
Hook: Go for a 5/0 to 7/0 circle hook. Circle hooks help prevent swallowing and increase catch-and-release success.
Rig: A Carolina rig is effective for presenting cut baits. The sliding sinker lets the bait settle on the river or lake bottom, attracting catfish.

Afternoon Prepared Baits:

Bait: Prepared baits such as stinkbaits or doughbaits suit the afternoon. These baits often have strong scents that attract catfish.
Hook: Choose a 2/0 to 4/0 treble hook, which works well with prepared baits.
Rig: A slip sinker rig is ideal for prepared baits. This rig keeps your bait near the bottom, allowing catfish to find it easily.

This is my favorite catfish rig in the afternoon, particularly for channel cats. I don’t normally catch big channel cats but I do catch them in the biggest numbers using a doughbait setup.

Late Afternoon Live or Cut Bait:

Bait: You can continue using live or cut bait as the day progresses into late afternoon. Opt for whichever you’ve had more success with earlier in the day.
Hook: Stick with the 4/0 to 6/0 circle hook for live or cut bait.
Rig: Again, the slip bobber rig for live bait or Carolina rig for cut bait can be effective during late afternoon hours.

Click here to learn the best locations to catch catfish both day and night. Click here to learn the best locations to catch catfish during the nighttime.

Poll Results: Where Anglers Catch Catfish at Sunrise and Sunset

I ran a poll asking anglers on Facebook where they typically catch the most catfish at sunrise and sunset. I received 326 votes in total. Below are the findings:

Question 1: Where do you usually catch catfish around sunrise?

River banks: 45%
Lake shores: 22%
Near submerged structures (e.g., fallen trees, rocks): 18%
In open water: 9%
Other: 6%

Question 2: Where do you typically catch catfish around sunset?

River banks: 38%
Lake shores: 29%
Near submerged structures (e.g., fallen trees, rocks): 21%
In open water: 10%
Other: 2%

Question 3: Which time of day do you find more productive for catfishing: sunrise or sunset?

Sunrise: 34%
Sunset: 27%
Both equally: 32%
Neither: 7%

Analysis of Results:

Based on the responses from 324 anglers, it’s clear that catfish behavior during sunrise and sunset varies in terms of preferred locations:

Sunrise Catfishing: Most anglers (45%) reported catching catfish along river banks during sunrise. Catfish may be more active near river banks early in the morning.
Sunset Catfishing: For sunset catfishing, 38% of respondents mentioned that they often catch catfish near river banks, followed by 29% near lake shores. Sunset seems to be another productive time to fish along the banks of water bodies.
Productivity Comparison: Interestingly, 32% of anglers find sunrise and sunset equally productive for catfishing. This suggests that catfish may exhibit active feeding behavior during both times of day.

Effective Tactics for Daytime Catfishing

Let’s dive into detailed information on how to fish and present various rigs in lakes and rivers while considering gear setup, line type and strength, bait choice, hook size, and prime locations/conditions.

Tactics for Lakes

Slip Bobber Rig:

Gear Setup: Use a medium-heavy rod, a spinning reel, and 10-20 lbs test monofilament line.
Bait: Hook your live bluegill, shad, or cut bait through the back or tail, allowing it to swim naturally.
Presentation: Set your slip bobber at the desired depth, casting your bait near submerged structures. Let the bobber float, indicating when a catfish takes the bait. When the bobber goes under, give it a slight tug before setting the hook.
Location: Fish near submerged structures, especially shaded areas and rocky bottoms.
Time of Day: Dawn and late afternoon are generally productive for lake catfishing.

Crawfish Imitation:

Gear Setup: Use a medium-action casting rod, baitcasting reel, and 12-20 lbs test monofilament line.
Bait: Try artificial lures that mimic crawfish, especially in sandy flats.
Presentation: Cast your lure and retrieve it slowly, mimicking the movement of a crawfish. Pay attention to any bumps or subtle pulls on your line, as catfish tend to mouth the bait before swallowing it. When you feel resistance, set the hook with a firm upward motion.
Location: Target shallow, sandy flats near drop-offs and submerged structures.
Time of Day: Late morning and early afternoon can be effective.

Tactics for Rivers

Anchor Strategically:

Gear Setup: Select a medium-heavy rod, a spinning reel, and 15-30 lbs test braided line.
Bait: Use cut bait (bluegills, shad) or chicken livers.
Presentation: Anchor your boat upstream of potential hotspots, allowing your bait to drift naturally toward catfish. Adjust the length of your leader so that your bait hovers just above the riverbed. Keep the line taut to detect any subtle bites.
Location: Anchor in deeper parts of the river with moderate current flow.
Time of Day: Catfish are active during mid-to-late morning and late afternoon.

Carolina Rig:

Gear Setup: Opt for a medium-action casting rod, baitcasting reel, and 15-25 lbs test monofilament line.
Bait: Use live baitfish or soft plastics like worms.
Presentation: Cast your bait and allow it to settle on the riverbed. Slowly reel in the slack while maintaining tension on the line. Keep your rod tip low to feel for any slight nibbles or tugs. When you sense a bite, give a moment for the catfish to fully take the bait before setting the hook.
Location: Fish in deeper parts of the river with moderate current.
Time of Day: Late morning to early afternoon is often productive.

catfish on the beach — Really nice dark-colored channel cat I caught in Lake Erie on a piece of skipjack herring.

Tips for Finding Catfish Throughout the Day

Shallow Morning Feeding: Early in the morning, catfish are often found in shallow water, actively feeding. Target areas with submerged structures near the shoreline, like rocks and logs.
Mid-Morning Transitions: Catfish move to slightly deeper waters as the sun rises. Fish around drop-offs and the edges of underwater ledges.
Midday Hideouts: During the hottest part of the day, catfish seek refuge in deeper, cooler waters. Look for them in deep holes, channels, and near dam outflows.
Cover and Structure: Catfish love cover. Fish near submerged logs, brush piles, and rocky structures where they can hide and ambush prey.
Thermoclines: Pay attention to thermoclines, which are layers of water with different temperatures. Catfish may be found near these transitions, where they can find comfortable temperatures.
Inlets and Outlets: In lakes and reservoirs, catfish often gather near creek inlets and dam outflows where currents carry in food.
Underwater Vegetation: In some cases, catfish can be found near submerged vegetation, especially if it provides cover for prey.
Temperature Preferences: Be aware of catfish temperature preferences. They may move to different depths to find the right water temperature for their comfort.
Follow the Baitfish: Catfish often follow schools of baitfish. If you spot baitfish activity, there’s a good chance catfish are nearby.
Wind-Driven Currents: Wind-driven currents can stir up prey and attract catfish on windy days. Fish in areas where the wind is pushing water, creating a current.
Underwater Points: Fish around underwater points that extend into the water. These points can create areas of current and attract catfish.
Eddy Currents: Eddy currents are circular currents that can trap food and attract catfish. Look for them in river bends and near structures.
Structure Changes: If fishing in a river, focus on areas where the riverbed changes, such as transitions from rocky to sandy bottoms or shallow to deep sections.
Water Clarity: Adjust your location based on water clarity. Catfish may prefer deeper spots in clear water; in muddy water, they might move to slower currents.
Scent Drift: Use scent baits strategically. Catfish can smell bait from a distance, so position your bait where the scent will drift to their hiding spots.
Fish Near Shorelines: In smaller bodies of water like ponds, catfish often stay close to the shoreline, especially if it has overhanging vegetation or rocks.
Prey Patterns: Understand the feeding patterns of catfish prey like crawfish, insects, and smaller fish. Catfish will often follow these patterns.
Overcast Days: Catfish may venture into shallower waters earlier in the day on cloudy days since the sun isn’t as intense.
Consistent Casting: Make accurate casts and fish methodically. Catfish can be hiding just inches away from where you’re fishing.
Experiment and Observe: Keep trying different spots and techniques. Sometimes, catfish behavior can vary, so be patient and observant.

Seasonal Variations

Spring

Catfish become more active as the weather warms up and nature awakens in the spring. You can find them in rivers and lakes, but they tend to gravitate toward different locations:

Rivers: Catfish often move to shallow areas in rivers during the spring. Look for them near riverbanks with submerged logs, rocky areas, and brush piles. They may also venture into slower-moving sections.
Lakes/Reservoirs: Catfish become more active in lakes as water temperatures rise. Target shallower areas near the shoreline where the water is still relatively cool. Submerged vegetation, underwater structures like fallen trees, and rocky outcrops can be prime locations.

Preferred Water Depth: Catfish can be found in water depths ranging from 2 to 15 feet during the spring, depending on local conditions.

Summer

Summer brings warm temperatures and a change in catfish behavior. During this season, you’ll want to adjust your fishing strategy accordingly:

Rivers: As summer progresses, river catfish often move to deeper waters to escape the heat. Look for them in holes, deeper channels, and underwater structures like submerged logs and rock formations. They may also congregate near dam outflows where oxygen levels are higher.
Lakes/Reservoirs: In lakes, catfish remain in deeper areas during the day. Seek out drop-offs, underwater humps, and the deepest parts of the lake. Structure is crucial, so fish near submerged trees, underwater ledges, and rocky structures.

Preferred Water Depth: During summer, catfish are commonly found in water depths of 10 to 25 feet, but this can vary based on the lake’s size and depth.

Fall

As the leaves change color and temperatures begin to drop, catfish behavior shifts once again:

Rivers: Catfish in rivers may move to shallower areas as they prepare for winter. Look for them in slower-moving sections, especially near rocky areas and structures. They may also chase baitfish in search of food.
Lakes/Reservoirs: In lakes, catfish can be found in shallower areas, especially near creek mouths and inlets. They may be more active this season, searching for food before winter.

Preferred Water Depth: Catfish in the fall can often be found in water depths of 5 to 15 feet, but they may venture shallower to feed.

I have found fall to be one of the best times to catch catfish. They are gearing up for winter and packing on as much weight as possible. I catch the most catfish in September and early October.

Winter

Winter is a challenging season for daytime catfishing, but it’s not impossible to land a catch:

Rivers: Catfish in rivers tend to move to deeper, slower-moving sections during the winter. Look for deep holes and channels, and fish near any remaining underwater structures.
Lakes/Reservoirs: In lakes, catfish become less active in the cold water. Target the deepest parts of the lake, particularly near any submerged structures. Fishing near dam outflows can also be productive.

Preferred Water Depth: During winter, catfish are often found in water depths of 15 to 30 feet or more, where they can access slightly warmer water.

Impact of Weather Conditions on Daytime Catfishing

Let’s explore how different weather conditions impact catfishing.

Clear & Sunny Days

Clear and sunny days can present unique challenges for catfish anglers. Catfish seek shelter and shade during these conditions to avoid direct sunlight and heat. To locate catfish during clear and sunny days:

River: Look for deeper holes, under submerged logs, and around rock structures where catfish can find shade and cooler water.
Lake: Catfish in lakes may move to deeper areas or gather near underwater vegetation for cover.

Best Bait: Catfish can be more cautious during clear and sunny days. Opt for natural baits like live nightcrawlers or shiners, which have a subtle presentation.

Bite Activity: Catfish may bite less frequently under these conditions, so patience is key. Be prepared to wait for a bite.

Overcast Days

Overcast days can be favorable for daytime catfishing. Cloud cover reduces sunlight and heat, encouraging catfish to become more active. To locate catfish during overcast days:

River: Catfish might venture into shallower areas and along the riverbanks to feed.
Lake: Look for catfish in shallower areas, especially around drop-offs and submerged structures.

Best Bait: Catfish are often more receptive to various baits during overcast days. Consider using live or cut bait like shad or chicken liver.

Bite Activity: Catfish tend to be more active and responsive during overcast conditions, increasing your chances of getting bites.

Windy Conditions

Windy conditions can influence the behavior of catfish. Wind can stir up the water and create movement, attracting catfish to potential food sources. To locate catfish during windy conditions:

River: Catfish may move to areas where the wind pushes baitfish, making them easier prey.
Lake: Focus on wind-blown shorelines and points where catfish can feed on disoriented prey.

Best Bait: Windy conditions can stimulate catfish to feed actively. Use a variety of baits such as live shiners or stink baits to take advantage of their heightened activity.

Bite Activity: Catfish tend to be more active and aggressive in windy conditions, making it a good time to cast your lines.

Rainy Days

Rainy days can lead to changes in water conditions, affecting catfish behavior. To locate catfish during rainy days:

River: Catfish often become more active in rivers during rain, as it can wash food into the water. Focus on eddies and deep holes.
Lake: Look for inflowing creeks or streams, as catfish may gather to feed on washed-in prey.
Catfish may seek out calmer and slower-moving areas in muddy or turbid water caused by heavy rain. Muddy water can disorient their prey, making it easier for them to ambush. Look for sheltered spots near structures like fallen trees or underwater rocks, as these can provide cover for catfish in murky conditions.
Conversely, in more transparent water during light to moderate rain, catfish may move to shallower areas to take advantage of increased visibility to hunt for prey. They may be more active and spread out across different parts of the water body.
When fishing in the rain, consider using baits and lures with strong scents, as catfish rely more on their sense of smell in dim or cloudy conditions. Patience is key, as catfish might take their time to locate your bait due to reduced visibility.

Best Bait: During rainy days, use baits that emit strong scents, like stink baits or chicken liver, to attract catfish in murky waters.

Bite Activity: Catfish tend to be more active during and after rain.