Check local fishing regulations and get any required license
Use a sturdy rod and reel with strong line
Choose bait such as worms, cut bait, chicken liver, or stink bait
Fish near deep holes, drop-offs, submerged logs, and river bends
Fish at dusk, nighttime, or early morning
Cast bait and let it sit on the bottom
Use sinkers to keep bait near the bottom
Watch for bites and set the hook firmly
Use a net or gripper to land the fish safely
Handle catfish carefully because of sharp fins
Keep only legal fish and release others properly