Channel Catfish

Staples, Texas, offers some excellent channel catfish opportunities in the Guadalupe River. This stretch of the Guadalupe is known for its healthy catfish population, making it a popular spot for anglers. The best time to target channel cats here is during the warmer months, particularly in the spring and early summer when they are actively spawning, and again in the fall as they feed heavily before winter. Look for areas with moderate current, submerged structure like fallen trees or rocks, and deeper holes. Stink baits, cut bait, and nightcrawlers are all effective choices. A good strategy is to fish near the bottom, allowing the current to carry your scent downstream. Local tip: Access points along the river are limited, so scout ahead for public access areas or consider using a kayak or canoe to reach more remote spots. The catfish in this area are typically of good size, with many anglers reporting catches in the 2-5 pound range, and larger fish are certainly possible.