Blue Catfish

For blue catfish in the Alda, Nebraska, area, the Platte River offers a surprisingly productive fishery. While not known as a blue cat hotspot like some southern rivers, the Platte holds a healthy population of blues that can reach impressive sizes. Focus your efforts in deeper holes, around log jams, and near the confluence of tributaries. The best time to target these whiskered giants is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Blues are active predators, and fresh cut bait is the key to success. Shad, suckers, or even commercially available catfish baits work well. Be prepared for a fight; these fish are strong! A practical tip for fishing the Platte near Alda: The river can fluctuate rapidly depending on rainfall and irrigation releases, so always check river levels and flows before heading out. Public access is available at several bridge crossings and designated recreation areas. Also, be aware of potential snags and debris, as the Platte is a river with many underwater obstacles.