Seasonal Changes for Catfishing: Day vs. Night (Full Guide)

Seasonal changes impact catfishing immensely, shaping the behavior of these elusive fish in various ways. Understanding how catfish adapt to the shifting seasons can be the key to a successful day or night on the water.

Seasonal changes impact catfishing by altering catfish behavior, making them more active during the spring and fall days, prompting nighttime feeding in the summer while becoming less active in the winter.

Table: How Seasons Impact Catfishing Day & Night

Season	Daytime Fishing Tips	Nighttime Fishing Tips
Spring	Catfish become more active as waters warm up.	Fish in shallow waters near spawning areas.
	Look for catfish in shallower waters as they feed.	Use bait like worms, cut bait, or stink baits.
	Use live bait or stink baits for their strong scent.	Fish in areas with structure and cover.
Summer	Fish in deeper waters where it’s cooler.	Focus on deeper waters, especially in hot weather.
	Fish near structures like underwater logs or rocks.	Use larger baits as catfish are more active at night.
	Use cut bait, chicken livers, or commercial baits.	Keep bait close to the bottom where catfish feed.
Fall	Catfish feed heavily to prepare for the winter.	Fish in deeper areas as water temperatures drop.
	Try fishing near river mouths or tributaries.	Use natural baits like shad, skipjack, or bluegill.
	Use live bait or fresh-cut bait for best results.	Fish near structure like drop-offs and holes.
Winter	Fish during the warmest parts of the day.	Fish very slowly as catfish are less active.
	Target deep holes, as catfish seek warmer water.	Use scent-based baits to attract catfish.
	Use small, slow-moving baits like minnows or worms.	Fish in areas with minimal current.

Understanding Catfishing Seasons

It’s important to know catfish act differently depending on the season. This means you must adjust your fishing strategy based on the time of year. Let’s look at how catfish change their habits during different seasons.

Seasonal Shifts in Catfish Behavior

Catfish act differently as the seasons change:

Springtime Feeding: Catfish become more active as the weather warms up in the spring. They start looking for food because they’ve been resting during the cold winter. This is a good time for fishing because hungry catfish are out and about.

Summer’s Hiding: In the hot summer, catfish prefer cooler, deeper waters during the day to avoid the sun. They come out to eat mostly at night. So, if you want to catch catfish in the summer, it’s best to fish in the evenings or at night.

Fall’s Appetite: In the fall, as it cools down again, catfish go into a feeding frenzy. They eat a lot to prepare for winter. So, autumn can be a great time for fishing if you want to catch bigger catfish.

Winter’s Rest: During the cold winter, catfish become less active. They don’t eat much because they’re conserving energy. If you decide to fish in the winter, you’ll need to be patient and use baits that can attract their attention even when they’re not very hungry.

Importance of Seasonal Adaptation

Understanding why catfish change their behavior with the seasons can help you catch more of them:

Survival: Catfish adjust to the seasons to survive. They slow down in winter to save energy and stay active in the spring and fall when food is plentiful.

Finding Food: When the seasons change, so does the food catfish like to eat. They adapt their eating habits to what’s available in each season. You must use bait that matches their preferences at that time of year.

Reproduction: Catfish also change their behavior in the spring because it’s their time to find mates and lay eggs. So, understanding their seasonal patterns can help you locate them when they’re most active.

Understanding how seasons affect different species of catfish can significantly improve your fishing success. Let’s explore the unique characteristics of four common catfish species and the best strategies to catch them during different seasons, both day and night.

Catfish Species: How Seasons Impact Them

Flathead Catfish

• Spring: During the day in spring, flathead catfish become more active as water temperatures rise. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times to catch them. Live baits like small fish or nightcrawlers work well.
• Night in Spring: At night in spring, flatheads move into shallower waters, making them more accessible. Using live bait and fishing near submerged logs or rock structures can be effective.
• Summer: Flatheads prefer cooler, deeper waters during the day. Night fishing is generally more productive. Consider using live bait like larger nightcrawlers or small fish.
• Night in Summer: Night fishing for flatheads in summer can be excellent due to cooler temperatures. Bright moonlit nights may also work well.
• Fall: Flathead catfish become more active during the day in the fall. They go into feeding frenzies. Fishing near structures and using live bait are effective strategies.
• Night in Fall: Flatheads at night in the fall may venture into shallower spots for feeding. Using live bait or cut bait near underwater structures can yield success.
• Winter: During winter, flathead catfish become less active both day and night. Patience is key, and using bait that releases scent can help attract them.
• Night in Winter: Night fishing for flatheads during winter can be challenging due to their reduced activity. Slow and steady bait presentations may be necessary.

Blue Catfish

• Spring: Blue catfish are active both day and night in the spring. Dusk and dawn are productive times. Fresh-cut baits like shad or skipjack work well.
• Night in Spring: Night fishing for blue catfish can be excellent during spring, especially with fresh-cut baits in deep holes or river channels.
• Summer: Blue catfish feed day and night during the summer. Dusk and dawn are still productive. Fresh-cut baits remain effective.
• Night in Summer: Night fishing is great during summer. Fishing in deep holes and using fresh-cut baits can lead to success.
• Fall: Blue catfish continue to feed actively both day and night in the fall. Fresh-cut baits and fishing in deep holes are reliable strategies.
• Night in Fall: Night fishing for blue catfish remains productive in the fall, especially in deep spots with fresh-cut baits.
• Winter: Blue catfish activity slows down in winter. Daytime fishing can be challenging, but using fresh-cut baits near deep holes may still yield results.
• Night in Winter: Night fishing for blue catfish during winter can be slow, but using fresh-cut baits near deep waters may attract them.

Channel Catfish

• Spring: Channel catfish are active during the day in spring. Mornings and evenings are prime times. Prepared baits, chicken livers, or worms work well.
• Night in Spring: Nighttime fishing can also be productive in the spring, especially near riverbanks or sandbars with prepared baits.
• Summer: Daytime fishing in summer is productive, especially during warm weather. Prepared baits and chicken livers remain effective.
• Night in Summer: Night fishing is excellent in the summer when the temperature is cooler. Chicken livers or stink baits can attract channel catfish.
• Fall: Channel catfish are active both day and night in the fall. Prepared baits and natural baits like cut bait or worms are successful.
• Night in Fall: Night fishing for channel catfish continues to be productive in the fall. Fishing near slower currents or aquatic vegetation can work well.
• Winter: Channel catfish activity slows down in the winter. Daytime fishing can be challenging but using prepared baits near deep holes may still attract them.
• Night in Winter: Night fishing for channel catfish in winter can be slow, but prepared baits near deep waters may yield results.

Bullheads

• Spring: Bullheads are active both day and night in the spring. Live bait like worms or nightcrawlers work well during the day.
• Night in Spring: Night fishing for bullheads can be productive, especially in slow-moving, muddy waters with live bait.
• Summer: Bullheads remain active day and night during the summer. Worms and nightcrawlers are reliable baits.
• Night in Summer: Night fishing for bullheads is also productive in the summer, especially in slow waters with live bait.
• Fall: Bullheads continue to be active both day and night in the fall. Using live bait near the bottom in slower waters can be successful.
• Night in Fall: Night fishing for bullheads in the fall can be productive near the bottom with live bait.
• Winter: Bullheads are adaptable and can be caught year-round, even day and night in winter. Using live bait in slower waters may still attract them.
• Night in Winter: Night fishing for bullheads during winter can be slower, but live bait in slow waters can be effective.

Daytime Catfishing: Strategies and Insights

Springtime

When it comes to catching catfish during the daytime in the spring, you need to know a few key strategies:

1. Early Birds Get the Fish: Catfish are often more active in the morning when the water is still cool from the night. Try to fish during the early hours for the best results.
2. Shady Spots: Look for areas with plenty of shade, like overhanging trees or structures. Catfish like to hide from the sun during the day, so they’ll often hang out in these shaded areas.
3. Live Bait: Consider using live bait such as worms or minnows. Catfish in the spring can be more interested in live prey, which might increase your chances of catching.
4. Patience is Key: Catfish might not bite immediately, so be patient. Sometimes they need some time to notice your bait.

Summer

Fishing for catfish during hot summer days can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Night Fishing: In the summer, catfish tend to be more active at night when it’s cooler. Consider night fishing trips for better results.
2. Deep Water: Catfish often go to deeper waters during the day to escape the heat. Use heavy sinkers to get your bait down to where the catfish are.
3. Use Scented Baits: During hot summer days, catfish might not be as active but rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate food. Consider using scented baits like chicken livers, stink bait, or commercial catfish attractants. These baits release strong scents in the water, making it easier for catfish to locate your bait even in the heat.

Autumn

As the weather cools in the fall, catfish become more active during the day. Here’s how you can make the most of daytime fishing in the autumn:

1. Transition Period: Early autumn can be an excellent time for catfishing as the fish prepare for winter. They’ll be feeding more to build up their energy reserves.
2. Bait Choice: Consider using natural baits like cut bait or worms. Catfish are often more interested in these types of baits during the fall.
3. Fish the Shallows: Catfish may move to shallower waters during the day to feed. Look for them in areas with vegetation or underwater structures.

Wintertime

Winter catfishing during the day can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Slow and Steady: Catfish are sluggish in the cold water, so use slow and steady bait presentations. Jig your bait gently to attract their attention.
2. Deeper Depths: In winter, catfish go deep to find warmer waters. Use heavy weights to get your bait down to where they are.
3. Warm Clothing: Dress warmly because winter fishing can be chilly. Layer up and wear waterproof clothing to stay comfortable.

I just wrote a comprehensive guide on how catfishing is impacted both day and night by water clarity. I think you should check it out.

Nighttime Catfishing: Strategies and Advantages

Catfishing at night can be awesome. In this section, we’ll explore the unique strategies and advantages of fishing for catfish under the cover of darkness.

Springtime

When it comes to nighttime catfishing in the spring, the darkness offers some advantages:

1. Warmer Waters: During spring evenings, the water is still relatively warm from the daytime sun. Catfish become more active in these comfortable temperatures.
2. Shallower Feeding: Catfish often move into shallower waters at night to hunt for food. Look for them near the shoreline or in areas with underwater structures.
3. Live Bait Success: Consider using live bait such as nightcrawlers or minnows. Catfish are more likely to respond to the movement and scent of live prey in the dark.
4. Minimal Disturbance: Nighttime fishing can be quieter and less crowded. With fewer disturbances, catfish are less spooked and more likely to bite.

Summer

Fishing for catfish during summer nights presents its own set of advantages:

1. Cooler Temperatures: Catfish are more active in the cooler nighttime temperatures of summer. This is a relief for both the fish and the angler.
2. Moonlit Waters: In the summer, the moon is often bright, casting light on the water. Catfish may be more active and easier to locate during these well-lit nights.
3. Topwater Baits: Consider using topwater lures or baits. Catfish might be more willing to surface for prey on moonlit nights, making these lures effective.

Autumn

As autumn approaches, nighttime catfishing can provide unique opportunities:

1. Feeding Frenzy: Catfish are more active in the fall as they prepare for winter. Nights offer the perfect chance to catch them during their feeding frenzy.
2. Shallows and Structures: Like spring, catfish may venture into shallower waters and areas with underwater structures at night. Focus your efforts in these spots.
3. Natural Bait Selection: Use natural baits like cut bait or worms. Catfish are often more interested in these during the fall.

Wintertime

Fishing for catfish during winter nights can be challenging but rewarding:

1. Slow and Steady: Catfish become sluggish in cold water, so use a slow and steady presentation with your bait. Patience is key.
2. Deeper Waters: Look for catfish in deeper areas where the water is warmer. Use heavy sinkers to reach them.
3. Cold-Weather Gear: Dress warmly with layered clothing and waterproof gear to stay comfortable during winter night fishing.

Moon Phases and Their Role

Moon Phases and Catfish Behavior

The moon significantly influences catfish behavior, affecting when and how they feed. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Full Moon: During a full moon, the night is bright, and catfish can see better. They tend to be less active and cautious, making them more selective in their feeding. Using natural baits and stealthy approaches can increase your chances of success during a full moon.
2. New Moon: A new moon means dark nights, which can make catfish bolder. They may venture into shallower waters and feed more actively. This is an excellent time for using artificial lures or brighter baits to attract their attention.
3. Quarter Moons: During quarter moons, catfish behavior falls somewhere between full and new moons. They are moderately active, making it a good time for various fishing techniques and baits.
4. Half Moon: Catfish activity during half moons can be influenced by other factors like water temperature and food availability. It’s essential to consider these additional factors when planning your fishing trip.

Moonlit Nights vs. Dark Nights

The level of moonlight in the night sky also plays a role in catfishing success. Here’s how moonlit nights compare to dark nights:

1. Moonlit Nights: Catfish tend to be more cautious on nights with a bright moon and may stay in deeper waters or shaded areas. To increase your chances of success, focus on using subtle presentations and fishing in areas with cover.
2. Dark Nights: Dark nights, like those during a new moon, can make catfish more active and less wary. They may move into shallower waters and feed more aggressively. Brightly colored baits and lures can work well under these conditions.
3. Intermediate Phases: During quarter and half moons, the moonlight level falls in between. Catfish behavior during these phases can vary, so it’s essential to adapt your approach based on their activity on a particular night.

Tips for Catching More Catfish Based on the Season

1. Experiment with Moon Phases: Pay attention to moon phases – during full moons, catfish can be more active at night, while during new moons, they may be more active during the day. I had an exceptional night fishing during a full moon on Lake Pymantuning last summer, catching over 30 catfish in 4 hours.
2. Use Subtle Lure Colors: Opt for subtle, natural lure colors like brown or green to mimic prey in clear water during the day. On a sunny afternoon, I switched to a green jig in clear water and landed a 15-pound flathead catfish even though I targeted smallmouth bass.
3. Go Ultraviolet at Night: Try ultraviolet (UV) reflective baits or lures at night, as catfish can see UV light even in low visibility. I used UV-enhanced baits and noticed a significant increase in nighttime strikes from all species of fish; not just catfish.
4. Adjust Bait Size with Water Temperature: In colder water during winter, downsize your bait to match the slower metabolism of catfish. I like to downsize all my baits and my speed when fishing in cold water for catfish.
5. Fish Near Thermoclines in Summer: Locate thermoclines (temperature boundaries) in the water, especially during hot summers, as catfish often hang out in these cooler zones.
6. Try Unconventional Baits: Experiment with unusual baits like hot dog chunks, marshmallows, or even soap for catfish. On a dare from a friend, I tried soap as bait. To my surprise, I landed some decent-sized catfish. It does work as silly as it sounds.
7. Fish Upstream in Fall: During the fall, fish upstream of dams or other barriers, as catfish migrate toward these areas for spawning.
8. Utilize Drift Fishing: Try drift fishing, especially in river systems, by allowing your bait to drift naturally with the current. I like drift fishing on a slow-moving river during the daytime and found that it helped me cover more water and locate active catfish.
9. Use Garlic-Scented Baits in Spring: In spring, when catfish are actively searching for food, try baits with a garlic scent, which can be highly attractive to them. Garlic-scented dough bait is one of my favorite late spring baits.
10. Fish During a Light Rain: Fishing during a light rain, especially during warmer seasons, can trigger catfish feeding activity as raindrops mimic prey falling into the water.

Conclusion

Choosing the right time for catfishing is crucial for success. During the day, spring and fall are prime times when catfish are active and feeding. In summer, focus on nighttime fishing to avoid the heat. Winter requires patience, slow bait presentation, and fishing in deeper waters.

At night, spring evenings are great for catfishing, especially in shallower areas with live bait. In summer, cooler nights and moonlit conditions can work well. Autumn nights are ideal for catfish feeding frenzies in shallow spots, while winter nights require slow presentations and warm clothing.

Consider moon phases; during a full moon, catfish are cautious, while a new moon can make them bolder. Quarter moons offer a balance, and half moons are influenced by additional factors.

In moonlit nights, catfish may stay in deeper or shaded areas, requiring subtle approaches. Dark nights make catfish more active, often in shallower waters, where bright baits can be effective. Adapt your strategy based on moon phases and moonlight levels for a successful catfishing adventure.