Channel Catfish

Looking for some whiskered action near Palacios, Texas? Channel catfish are a readily available freshwater target. While Palacios is primarily a saltwater fishing destination, the freshwater creeks and ponds nearby hold good populations of channel cats. The best time to target them is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall (April-October), particularly after a good rain when the water is slightly muddied. Try fishing Tres Palacios Creek or some of the smaller, unnamed ponds in the area. A simple bottom rig with stink bait, nightcrawlers, or cut bait works wonders. Look for areas with submerged timber, creek bends, and deeper holes. A local tip: many of the smaller ponds are easily accessible from the road, but be sure to respect private property. The channel catfish in this region are typically good eaters, with many fish in the 2-5 pound range and some larger specimens possible.