Catfish can be caught with an astounding range of baits. Depending on regional fishing factors and the species being targeted, catfish baits may include live baits, cut baits or scented baits.

Live baits range from small offerings such as earthworms, crickets, insect larvae to whole large fish, with the type of live bait usually dependant on the species of catfish that are sought. The most commonly used live baits are the simplest of freshwater baits; earthworms and nightcrawlers. Whether dug fresh from the garden or bought at a tackle shop, worms are always a good choice for freshwater fishing, especially when anglers are simply relaxing and expect a mixed catch of catfish, panfish and other small fish.

Minnows are a good choice in situations where catfish are the dominate species in the waterway. Minnows, like worms catch a variety of species, which can be good unless anglers wish to catch catfish exclusively. Minnows are most effective on flathead catfish, channel cats, blue cats and white catfish.

For trophy catfish such as monster blue cats of 30 pounds or more, many anglers live line large baits such as alewives, gizzard shad, threadfin shad, river herring, menhaden or other forage species. These nervous baits draw the attention of hungry blue catfish that feed in relatively fast moving rips along channels or along drop offs in lakes.

Crayfish, also known as crawfish are another good live bait for catching catfish. As with most other baits, size is important. In areas where most catfish are 1-5 lbs, smaller crayfish are necessary. For trophy class catfish, anglers may elect to use much larger crayfish. Most anglers disable or remove the claws of live-baited crayfish, in order to draw more strikes.

Cut baits also work well, especially baits with a strong scent. Cut baits include fresh or brined fish, shrimp, squid and other natural baits. In additional to natural choices, catfish anglers employ a variety of unusual choices such as chicken livers, bacon, hotdogs and cheese. Depending on their texture and firmness, cut baits may be fished on traditional live bait hooks or may require a variety of tricks to keep them on the the hook.

Scented baits are made from special mixtures of ingredients. These baits, often called "stink baits" can be purchased or concocted at home. There are many versions of scented baits. Several of the flavors, scents and ingredients are almost unbelievable, but proven effective. Blood, liver, fish, cheese and seafood flavors are certainly expected but others such as garlic, hot peppers and anise are unusual for fish baits.

Once a scented or "stink" bait is perfected, ingredients are added to act as a binder. Some commercially produced catfish baits are available in blocks or as moldable solids. Home made catfish baits usually contain bread dough, cheese or other solids that act to solidify and retain the secret mixture.

As is the case with some cut baits, anglers sometimes employ special rigs to retain scented baits on the hook. These include sponges, spring type devices, small mesh covers or other means of covering or embedding bait and attaching it to the hook.

Whether an anglers chooses live bait, cut baits or scented bait mixtures, catfishing can be an enjoyable experience. Some anglers release catfish while others harvest a few delicious fresh fish for the table.

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