Blue Catfish

Targeting Blue Catfish around Danbury, Nebraska, means focusing on the Republican River. This river system, while not as famous as some of the larger catfish waters further east, still holds some impressive blues. Look for deeper holes, especially near outside bends of the river or areas with significant structure like submerged timber or rock piles. The best time to target these whiskered giants is late spring through early fall, with the warmer summer months often producing the biggest fish. Fresh cut bait, such as carp or shad (if legal and available), is the go-to bait. Use a sturdy rod and reel with heavy line – these fish can put up a serious fight! Be mindful of river conditions; heavy rains upstream can cause the river to rise quickly and become muddy, impacting fishing success. Public access to the Republican River is available at several bridge crossings and designated wildlife management areas. Always check current Nebraska fishing regulations for any specific size or creel limits on blue catfish.