Catfish Fishing in Montana

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. They can be found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Catfish Fishing Lakes In Montana

Unlike southern states, catfish are not in the vast majority of fishing waters here in Montana. You can still catch catfish in MT, you're simply limited to the number of options. The major lakes with healthy populations of channel catfish include Bighorn Lake, lathead Lake, Fort Peck Lake and Nelson Lake. Some of the rivers, ponds and smaller lakes may also have catfish, but not in great numbers.

The Montana state record channel catfish was caught out of Castle Rock Lake.

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Fishing for Channel Catfish
Ictalurus punctatus

Channel cats can be caught most any time of year except in extreme cold water conditions. The best time of year tends to be spring and fall followed by summer and lastly winter. Channel catfish favor crawfish and small fish, so look for them at varying depths where there is rock or gravel that attracts the crawfish or other forms of cover that attracts baitfish and other small fish. In the warmer summer months catfish can be found in areas with moss, which they feed on.

Catfish Baits

If it resembles food in any way and emits scent or an odor it is likely to attract the interest of catfish. Every ardent catfish expert has their own secret recipe. The ingredients range from natural prey of fish and fowl to non-food items like soap and chemicals. Chicken, shrimp, liver and stink baits are the most common ingredients. The long whiskers of the catfish are always in search of an easy meal.

Catfish Organizations & Resources

Catfish Conservation Group
Catfish Conservation
U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments
Planet Catfish

Learning to Fish for Catfish In Montana

The purpose of the page is to provide specific information about fishing for catfish in Montana. Find information on basic trends and seasonal patterns of catfish here in the state of Montana. Look here for tips, recommended tackle, techniques and more. We want to help you make your catfish fishing trips in MT more successful.

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Check out catfish information in other areas using the list of states to the left.

All About Fishing for Catfish in Montana.

58 lbs - 0 oz

27 lbs - 3 oz

65 - 90 Degrees

Prefers slightly stained to murky water with mild current and sand or rock bottom.