Blue Catfish

For blue catfish near Peabody, Kansas, the Cottonwood River offers some excellent opportunities. While not a trophy blue cat fishery like some of the larger rivers in the state, the Cottonwood still holds a respectable population of blues, particularly in the deeper holes and around submerged structure. Spring and early summer, after the spawn, are excellent times to target them, as they'll be actively feeding. Fall can also be productive as they bulk up for winter. A key to success on the Cottonwood is finding areas with good current breaks. Blues often hold in these spots, waiting to ambush prey. Access can be a bit challenging in some areas, so be prepared to do some walking. Focus on areas near bridge crossings or public access points along the river. Cut bait, particularly shad or sunfish, is a reliable choice. Keep an eye on water levels, as the Cottonwood can be prone to flooding after heavy rains. Local anglers often find success using drift fishing techniques, covering more water and presenting bait effectively.