Blue Catfish

If you're hunting trophy blue catfish, Comstock, Nebraska, might surprise you. While not widely known, the Middle Loup River and nearby reservoirs offer surprisingly good blue catfishing. Targeting blues here requires a bit of strategy. Unlike channel cats, blues prefer deeper water and structure. Focus on the main river channel, especially bends and areas with submerged timber in the Middle Loup. Anglers also find success in Sherman Reservoir, a short drive away. The best time to target blues is late spring through early fall. Pre-spawn (late May/early June) and late fall (October/November) can be particularly productive as they bulk up for winter or spawning. Use large cut bait like carp or sucker, and be prepared for a fight – these fish can get big! A key tip is to scout for deeper holes using sonar if you have it, or look for areas where the river current slows dramatically. Access to the Middle Loup can be tricky in places, so check local road conditions and access points before heading out.