Fishing Charters in Kentucky
Browse fishing charters in Kentucky that can help you catch catfish.
Hooked On Cats Guide Service
Hooked On Cats Guide Service.....pursuing trophy catfish on the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland and Tennessee rivers in the western Kentucky region.
Captain Kirk's Guide Service
Kentucky Lake fishing guide service. Fish for Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Yellow Bass, Catfish, Bluegill, Red Ear, Sauger, White Bass, Stripers. Check out Kirk's fishing report and current fishing photos
Best Time to Catch Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Paducah. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Catfish
Paducah, Kentucky, is a catfish angler's paradise, thanks to the Ohio River and its tributaries. These waterways are teeming with channel, blue, and flathead catfish, offering diverse fishing opportunities. Summer and fall are prime times, as catfish are actively feeding. Focus on areas with deep holes, current breaks, and submerged structure. A local's tip is to fish near the mouths of creeks and rivers that feed into the Ohio River, as these areas often concentrate baitfish and, consequently, catfish. Use a variety of baits, including cut bait, live bait, and stinkbaits, experimenting to see what the fish are hitting on that day. The catfish in this region can grow to impressive sizes, with blues exceeding 50 pounds. Be prepared for a strong fight, and always practice catch-and-release for trophy-sized fish to help maintain the health of the fishery.
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in Kentucky
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Statewide Fishing License
Some waters may have specific regulations; consult the Kentucky Fishing Guide.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Kentucky state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Kentucky
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the catfish regulations in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, there are no size or bag limits on catfish. You can fish for them year-round.
What's a good bait for catching catfish in Paducah?
Catfish in the Paducah area respond well to a variety of baits, including nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best on the day you are fishing.
Do I need a special license to fish for catfish in Kentucky?
No, you just need a standard Kentucky fishing license to fish for catfish or any other fish species in the state.
Are there any particular spots near Paducah known for good catfish fishing?
The Ohio River and Kentucky Lake near Paducah are popular spots for catfish. Look for areas with structure, such as submerged logs or rock piles.
More Catfish Fishing in Kentucky
Other Species to Fish in Paducah
Ready to Catch Catfish in Paducah?
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