Top Rods, Reels for Catfish
By: Keith "Catfish" Sutton
Catfish rods need be tough and durable for fighting these large fish. (Photo courtesy of GameandFishMag.com)
Here are the best rods for catching channel, blue and flathead catfish
North America’s big-three species of catfish — the channel blue and flathead — fry drags, bust rods, straighten hooks and break swivels each summer across this great country. Big specimens can snap 50-pound line like sewing thread. Should you be privileged enough to hook one weighing 100 pounds, you better be combat-ready. Some serious tackle-testing action will surely ensue.
Fortunately for those of us who love pursuing these freshwater fighters, today’s tackle manufacturers are adding new gear built to endure the stress and strain of battling these brutes. This is particularly evident in these new rods and reels made catfish-tough with materials and insightful designs. We were impressed by what’s out there now. With these products in your angling arsenal, you can fish worry-free, knowing you have the best tools for subduing even the orneriest catfish.
1. E-CAT
Looking to catch 100-pound monsters? This new series of super-tough E-glass rods provides confidence in your ability to subdue even the hardest-fighting, tackle-wrecking brutes. Spinning and casting models, with medium to heavy power, stainless guides with aluminum-oxide inserts and solid full-cork handles. $70
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