![]() A pair of wire cutters, again with long handles, to cut off the spines is a good idea. This gives plenty of margin between my hand and the spines. The slime absorbs the bacteria found in the bottom sediments and oxygen-depleted waters, where catfish have evolved to survive.įor hook removal, try long-handled needlenose pliers I make my own by taping 14-inch lengths of ½- or ¾-inch PVC to the handles. You won't have to wait long.Īlthough saltwater catfish spines are not truly poisonous, they are covered with a protective slime layer. We may not have cobia stakes but if you're interested in catching some cats for bait just find an active fish clean station. ![]() With a little research I found out it wasn't really a secret after all, but just old-time southern “Easy Boy” smarts. The fishermen were attracting forage fish, lots and lots of catfish, which was their secret bait for cobia. It wasn't until lately that I figured out how these stakes really worked. I knew they dumped fish heads, chicken guts and other food waste products there. Although I never got to fish those stakes in the Sound, it always intrigued me how the staked areas were supposed to attract cobia. The Hatteras men would have what they called a cobia stake on a submerged bar. Occasionally I'd get a chance to fish with the locals in Pamlico Sound, mostly for weakfish and red drum, our redfish. Years back I used to surf fish on Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina. But, don't look at this versatile, easy to acquire, big-fish bait with disdain. ![]() ![]() Their malevolent reputation is understandable if you've been stuck by a dorsal or pectoral fin spine. Saltwater catfish are slimy, wiggly, and possibly injurious to the uninitiated angler. Whole or dressed, they'll catch big fish. In foreground is gafftopsail catfish in back, hardhead. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |