Channel Catfish

For channel catfish enthusiasts visiting Arbela, Missouri, the local rivers and larger creeks offer good opportunities. While not a trophy catfish destination, you can reliably find good numbers of channel cats. The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are ideal. After a good rain, when the water is slightly turbid, is a particularly productive time to fish. Standard catfish baits like nightcrawlers, chicken liver, or commercially prepared stinkbaits fished on a bottom rig are effective. Focus on areas with current, such as bends in the river or below riffles. A local tip is to try fishing near submerged timber or rock piles, as these provide cover and attract catfish. Many anglers also have success drifting baits along the bottom. Be aware of changing water levels, especially after heavy rains, as this can impact fishing conditions and access. Respect private property and obtain permission before fishing on land that is not clearly public access.