Noodling Catfish

Mike Kruse        

Non Fiction Writing

WTS

June 1, 2014

                                        “Noodling Catfish”

        Noodling is fishing for catfish using your hands. Noodling has various other names such as hand fishing, cat-daddling, and tickling. Due to the dangers involved, which I will discuss, noodling has been outlawed in many states so make sure its legal in your state before attempting this act. The majority of noodling takes place in shallow water usually ranging from the height of ones shin up to their neck. I’ll discuss a few materials needed and how to approach a catfish hole. Other than that, this is how to noodle a catfish.

 The first step to noodling could make or break your adventure, which is checking whether it is legal in your state. There are 15 states that are currently legal, which covers most of the south except for Florida. There are two primary reasons why the practice is illegal. Many states say that the practice is too dangerous for humans. Secondly, biologists worry that the noodler is fishing where the catfish is protecting eggs, they’re more likely to destroy the eggs in the process, which leads to a decrease in fish population. Now that we’ve gone over the legality, I’ll direct you to the location where they’ll be found and the time you’ll want to go.

        The majority of noodling takes place in shallow water whether it’s a pond, lake, or river. If the water is above your head, wrestling the fish can be extremely difficult or even impossible. Catfish hideouts or nests are usually found inside submerged logs, fallen trees, or in clay banks. Catfish will make their nests where they feel safe. During spawning season which occurs around spring and summer when the water temperature rises to about 70 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re likely to find catfish in their nests because they seldom abandon their eggs. A little preparation is needed once you locate the hole.

        The first thing you’ll want is a pair of gloves to protect your hands from the catfish’s teeth. Attire should consist of old clothes and shoes that won’t get waterlogged. A long stick will be needed, which is actually necessary for locating the hole. You test the hole by poking the stick in it and making sure the hole goes down and not up. If the hole goes down it’s a catfish hole but if it goes up it’s either a turtle, snake or even an alligator. Once you’ve found a promising spot you’ll want to barricade any possible escape routes using rocks, sandbags, or even your noodling buddies. Once you know you’re safe jam your hand in the hole and wiggle your fingers. You’re pretending to be bait and you want the catfish to take a good bite on to your hand. Catfish have sandpaper-like teeth that usually can’t penetrate human skin. Some catfish will immediately clam on to your whole arm while others will just nip at it. If he doesn’t clench your hand, open his mouth and adjust your grip. Then, wiggle your fingers until you’ve worked them into the fish’s gills covering the sides of the head. Drag the fish to the surface, as your noodling buddies should help at this point. Allow me to go over some safety precautions as I elaborate the seriousness of this upcoming sport.