When you think of the Midwest's favorite fishing opportunities, few even ponder the thought of fishing on the river, especially for a Flathead Catfish. While there aren’t many diehard cat hunters, the select few are passionate about the monsters they chase, and score huge fish every year. Here are a few ideas to get you started, and once you get bitten by the catfish bug, you just might fall in love.

You’ll need good bait. The livelier the better. Bullheads are a top choice in Minnesota, and added fun when you have to catch your bait. Find a local pond, and you’ll find your bullies. But remember, they must be of legal length if you plan to use them in Minnesota.

A heavy rod and reel with 50 to 80 pound line is a must. Next is a big hook and enough weight to keep your bait on the bottom. Three to four ounces of weight should do the trick depending on the current in your river. Once you have the gear, all you need to do is find the catfish. Typically they hang in heavy brush and snags under the flowing surface. You will also want to locate running water such as creeks or drains, and find deep holes in the river channel too. Better yet, if you find all three of these ingredients, you have likely found the motherload.

Whether you fish from shore or in a boat, this approach and tactic can get you bit. Flathead catfish are an incredible fish with bone shattering strikes and fierce battles matched by few others. Now is the time to latch into a monster as the water warms and the cat spawn draws near. If there is a flowing river in your area, you can bet there is a monster lurking. Good luck!

Travis Frank - travis@mnbound.com