Best season
summer
Best time
21–4
Optimal temp.
18–26 °C
Top bait
large Shad 20-30cm
To target Catfish successfully, think about season, time of day and weather together. Catfish bite best in summer, especially 21–4. The ideal water temperature is 18–26 °C. Proven baits are large Shad 20-30cm, baitfish (large) and squid. Conditions are most reliable with rapidly falling pressure before thunderstorms.
Catch outlook through the year
Best season
Over the year, Catfish are most active in July and August. The absolute peak is in August.
Best time of day
The most productive times of day for Catfish are 21–4. These windows reward your time on the water most.
Water temperature
Catfish bite best at a water temperature of 18–26 °C. Outside this window they become noticeably sluggish.
Weather & air pressure
Catfish bite most reliably with rapidly falling pressure before thunderstorms. Also favourable: overcast skies and low light at dawn and dusk.
Recommended baits & lures
These baits have proven themselves for Catfish: large Shad 20-30cm, baitfish (large), squid, liver, plug XL, cut bait and burbot.
Suitable waters
You will typically find Catfish in these water types: Lake, Reservoir, Quarry lake, River, Stream, Canal and Oxbow lake.
Closed season
No nationwide closed season – varies by region.
Closed seasons and minimum sizes vary by country, state and water. Always check the local regulations before you fish.
When do Catfish bite at YOUR water?
Baytz. Sense. combines weather, air pressure, moon phase and solunar into concrete bite-time windows for Catfish – for exactly the water you enter.
Calculate the best time — freeStart free · on Android & in the browser
Frequently asked questions
When do Catfish bite best?
Best in July and August, especially 21–4. Ideal water temperature: 18–26 °C.
What is the best bait for Catfish?
Proven choices are large Shad 20-30cm, baitfish (large) and squid.
In what weather do Catfish bite?
Most reliably with rapidly falling pressure before thunderstorms.
In which waters do Catfish live?
Mainly in Lake, Reservoir, Quarry lake, River, Stream, Canal and Oxbow lake.