Channel Catfish

While not necessarily a renowned catfish destination, Rochester, New Hampshire, does offer some opportunities for channel catfish anglers. Your best bet is to focus on the larger bodies of water like the Salmon Falls River, which forms part of the border between New Hampshire and Maine, or some of the deeper ponds and lakes in the area. Catfish prefer deeper water with structure, so look for them near submerged timber, rocky outcroppings, and channel edges. Summer is the prime time for catfish, with the warmer water temperatures increasing their activity. Night fishing is particularly effective. A practical tip for this area is to use sturdy tackle, as the Salmon Falls River can have strong currents. Chicken livers, cut bait, and commercially prepared catfish baits are all good choices. Access to the Salmon Falls River is available at several points along Route 4, but be mindful of private property. While you might not catch trophy-sized cats, a few decent fish are certainly possible.