How To Find Catfish On A Fish Finder? (Step By Step)

The excitement of reeling in a big catfish is something many people can relate to.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s nothing like the feeling of landing that big one. But how do you go about catching one?

Are you looking for some fresh, wild catfish to add to your fishing arsenal? If so, you’ll need to find them on a fish finder.

Here are five steps for how to find catfish on a fish finder.

Why Catfish is Popular for Fishing

There are many different types of fishing out there, but one of the most popular is catfish fishing.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day out with friends or family, catfish fishing is definitely the sport for you.

Catfish are a type of fish that can be caught in many different types of water, so there’s sure to be a spot for you to go fishing that will fit your needs.

There are a few popular ways and devices to catch catfish, but the most common is by fishing with bait.

You can use worms, nightcrawlers, or even chicken livers as bait and wait for the fish to take it.

How To Find Catfish On A Fish Finder

Using a fish finder can be a great way to locate catfish.

By understanding how to read the different screens and interpreting the sonar data, you can increase your chances of finding these bottom-feeding fish.

Step 1) Research The Area

Whether you’re a novice fisherman or an experienced pro, knowing where to find the best fishing spots is essential for success.

There are many ways to research potential fishing areas, but one of the most reliable methods is to consult local fishing guidebooks.

These books often contain detailed maps and information about each spot, including the area’s best times and conditions for catching fish.

You can also google search for fishing hotspots near you.

This method can be helpful if you don’t have access to a local guidebook or if you’re looking for a specific type of fish.

For example, if you’re targeting saltwater fish, checking websites that list marine fisheries would be a good way to find hunting grounds.

Finally, don’t forget your own intuition. If something feels right as you drive or hike to the spot, it probably is too.

You also follow the following guide to research a catfish fishing area;

-Check out the internet for fishing reports and reviews from other anglers.

-Speak with locals or fish store employees who may have frequented the area in the past.

-Look at local maps and find an area that has a good number of fish species caught there.

-Take into account accessibility, weather conditions, regulations, and cost when choosing an area to fish.

-If you’re planning on fishing during open season, be sure to check state or provincial regulations first.

Step 2) Scout The Area

When scouting for a fishing spot, it is important to take into account the surrounding area.

This includes looking for any waterfalls or streams that could lead to a good fishing spot and checking out any potential landing spots.

It is also helpful to know what kind of fish are found in the area. For instance, some popular fish in freshwater areas are trout, bass, catfish, and crappie.  

In saltwater areas, many different types of fish can be found including grouper, tuna, swordfish, and marine mammals like dolphins and whales.

It is also important to keep an eye out for signs that indicate a good fishing spot such as oyster beds or dense vegetation near the water’s edge.

Step 3) Use Electronics

Use a fish finder to locate the catfish in an aquatic environment. Use a depth sounder to scan the bottom for signs of a fish’s presence.

There are two main ways to use a fish finder: casting and trolling. Casting is when you point the device at the water and wait for it to “find” the target fish.

Trolling involves setting the device into the water and using it to move around, looking for schools of fish.

Whether you’re a beginner angler or an experienced fisherman, knowing where to find the best fishing spots is essential for success.

Luckily, modern fish finders make locating these spots easy.

When choosing a fish finder, keep in mind its capabilities and the waters you’ll be fishing.

A basic model will suffice for most freshwater applications, such as general trolling and fly fishing.

If you intend to use your fish finder in saltwater, consider getting a more advanced device that can handle wind conditions and deep water.

Once you’ve chosen the right fish finder for your needs, familiarize yourself with its features by reading the owner’s manual.

This information will tell you how to use the device to locate specific targets, such as schools of fish or big game fish.

Next, set up your equipment by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 4) Use Your Senses

Use your eyes, ears, and nose to help you locate catfish. When you’re out fishing, take advantage of your five senses.

You need to use your eyes to see where the fish are and what they are doing, your ears to listen for the sound of a fish hitting the water, and your hands to feel the bottom and determine if there is a baitfish around.

Watch for telltale signs of a good fishing spot: an area with plenty of deep water, clear water, and Structure (a tall tree or other solid objects).

Pay attention to the sounds made by the fish and the environment around you.

Smell the air for any possible clues. Fishes may release a certain fragrance when they’re eating or spawning.

Finally, touch, feel, and smell anything that looks remotely fishy.

Step 5) Use Bait

Use live bait or artificial bait to attract catfish. In some cases, you will need to use a bait caster or slip bobber to get the fish to bite.

Other times, you can use live bait, such as worms or insects.

Regardless of the method used, always be prepared to keep an eye on the fish finder screen in order to locate the target.

Final Words

In conclusion, using a fish finder to locate catfish is a great way to improve your chances of success when fishing for this species.

By taking the time to learn how to use the device and by positioning it in the right spot, you can greatly increase your chances of catching one of these fish.

So get out there and start fishing for catfish using a fish finder.