Channel Catfish

Purcell, Oklahoma, offers fantastic channel catfish opportunities, largely thanks to its proximity to the South Canadian River and Lake Arcadia. The river provides a more natural, flowing environment, while Lake Arcadia is a reservoir known for holding some hefty cats. Spring and early summer, especially after a good rain, are prime times. The rising water levels and increased runoff wash all sorts of tasty treats into the river, triggering a feeding frenzy. For river fishing, try drifting cut bait or stink bait near submerged logs and deeper holes. Lake Arcadia is better suited for anchored fishing with similar baits, focusing on areas near the dam or submerged structure. A local tip: be prepared for fluctuating water levels on the river, and always check the latest reports before heading out. Also, the catfish in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, so experiment with different baits until you find what they're hitting.