Catfish

For catfish enthusiasts near Jefferson City, the Missouri River and its major tributaries offer excellent prospects for landing channel, blue, and flathead catfish. The summer months are prime time, as catfish become more active in warmer water. Focus on areas with current, such as outside bends and submerged structure. Cut bait, live bait, and prepared baits are all effective, with shad and skipjack herring being local favorites. Consider fishing at night for larger catfish. The Missouri River can be treacherous, so exercise caution and be aware of changing water levels. A local tip is to target areas near the mouths of smaller creeks and rivers that feed into the Missouri. The catfish in this region are known for their size and fighting ability, making for a memorable angling experience. Be sure to have appropriate gear and tackle for handling large fish.