biggest catfish in smith lake alabama

On the Alabama River, some of the best catfishing occurs on the William Bill Dannelly Reservoir, better known as Millers Ferry Lake, near Camden. Be assured that a 75-pound catfish qualifies as a trophy anywhere. Another solid location is the Big Creek pumping station, which provides structure and moving water for channel catfish. Its just such a friendly place. Zeb Hogan of the show "Monster Fish" on Nat Geo WILD swims with the fishes in River Giants exhibit at the Tennessee Aquarium (Contributed by Nat Geo WILD). Competed in international coastal rowing championships and followed Wales throughout Europe in their Rugby and Soccer endeavours. Michael Houseknecht/Mobile, Chris S. Fuller, AthensBobby Lee Davis, Bessemer, Paddlefish With several piers that border deep water and banks fringed with brush, shore fishing is easy at Lake Martin. Hot weather months are typically the poorest times to go after really big catfish. Boat anglers must keep their distance from the dam, anchoring or mooring out of the current and casting into it for the highest chance of success. Floyd chronicles others whose experiences mirrored Suttons: Billy Burns died in 1827 after seeing the serpent; Jim Windom in 1829. Weighing must be witnessed by two people. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. In both of these Coosa River locations, anglers can catch big blue and channel cats on bottom rigs. (Aha!). Leda likes that on the Cullman side, you can be in downtown Cullman in 15 minutes and enjoy luxuries youd expect, while getting back the wilderness shortly after. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Towns on the lake include Bremen, Crane Hill and Dodge City in Cullman County; Curry and Jasper in Walker County; and Addison, Arley, Houston, and Double Springs in Winston County. The commercial pond catfish culture supplies the demand for catfish fillets, so commercial fishing in the lakes is a lost art. Mega-fishthe biggest catfish in the countryare right here in Alabama. (Contributed by Zeb Hogan). After the big fish is hooked, its largely a matter of holding on when the fish tries to run and then steadily applying pressure and taking in line when its possible. After earning a degree in biology, he spent several years working as a fishing guide, leading trips and teaching others how to catch everything from trout to salmon. But when I took the rod out of the holder, the fish began to pull really hard. Fish must be weighed on certified scales. Cullman, Alabama 35057 Smith Lake Park Campground - 256 739-2916, Speegle's Marina & Campground - 256 734-0698, Hidden Cove RV Resort Campground - 205 221-7042, Lakeshore Cabins & RV Campground - 361 438-4811, Smith Lake RV & Cabin Resort - 256 709-1820, Lewis Smith Lake Smith Lake Park & Campground The Mobile-Tensaw Deltais inhabited by more than 130 freshwater and marine species. This article offers a ton of great information on where to catch catfish at Alabamas best fishing holes. The father/son team had a two-day. Stripers love eating them, period. She has worked in some of the worlds most prestigious kitchens, and has published several cookbooks that have become bestsellers. You will find boating, kayaking and fishing here. 205 669-0077, Triple Creek Marina Convenience Store: NEARBY Today, commercial catfishing is rarely done in the lakes. This body of water covers approximately 21,200 acres of surface area. 256 286-0050. Thats important. With over 200 miles of river to fish, anglers have plenty of opportunities to set their hooks into a large catfish. Lay Lake is a 12,000-acre reservoir fed by the tailwaters of the Logan Martin Dam. There are five major species of catfish in the state of Alabama. We then plotted a GPS course with the trolling motor and began to fish. It has 21,000 acres of some of the cleanest and deepest lake water in the USA (260ft) and over 500 miles of beautiful tree-lined coastline. May. Read the story of the Alabama State Fossil here. This long river comes in from Mississippi near Pickensville and flows southward along the western side of Alabama. Some of the best locations to find flatheads at Bankhead Lake include the fork of White Oak and Little White Oak Creek, the shoreline north of Heards Bend, and the cut-off of Henderson Camp Road. They are no longer rare. Weighing must be witnessed by two people. Youve probably been to a friends weekend home on Smith Lake just north of Birmingham. Captain Brian advises us about appropriate equipment. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo, Outdoor Hub, LLC (d/b/a Carbon Media Group), 30800 Telegraph Rd, Suite 1921, Bingham Farms, MI 48025 USA. How do you fish for blueback herring lakes? The lake is popular for anglers, as it has an abundance of catfish, largemouth bass and smallmouth bass. Find out where the locals eat, shop and hangout. You get to know people and experience all there is to enjoy on the lake with them, stunning sunsets, watersports, and brunch at the marina (which can extend until dinnertime!). Also referred to as Converse Reservoir, this 3,600-acre impoundment in Mobile County is filled with channel catfish, bass, and sunfish. What pound test should I use for striped bass? JavaScript is disabled. WhatS The Biggest Catfish Caught In Alabama? Fish must be identified by a Fisheries Section biologist or other certified fisheries biologist. Gizzard Shad. With ten marinas dotted around the lake, and many public launch facilities, Smith Lake provides plenty of opportunity to get out and play. Catching three to five-pound cats is fun, and theres no better main ingredient for a fish fry than fillets from this size fish. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your California Privacy Rights (User Agreement updated 1/1/21. They look after you and remember you. How do you catch big brown trout at night? Procedures For the Certification of Alabama State Record Freshwater Fish Fish must be caught in Alabama waters by legal means. Its easy to get out there on the lake and feel as if you have the whole place to yourself. Captain Brian Barton specializes in guiding anglers on catfishing trips. There are numerous different species of fish to find on this body of water. Smith Lake Park has some great walking and bike trails, suitable for kids and big kids! Smith Lake Fishing Adventures strives to offer the best striped bass fishing guide service on Lewis Smith Lake in Alabama. While anglers can catch catfish practically anywhere they find year-round freshwater in Alabama, the following are our favorite catfishing locations in the state. 55 Marina Drive Folks, however, swear cats have . Ive seen one, Hogan said. When a big catfish strikes, its important not to jerk but simply apply pressure and start reeling.. They include Lake Guntersville, Lewis Smith Lake, Pickwick Lake, Wheeler Lake and Wilson Lake. The pig is a trailer, often of pork rind, hence the name, or plastic. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Evidence of an Alabama sea serpent does exist in the fossilized bones of the zeuglodon, a prehistoric whale that grew to about 70 feet in length. Recently, he went mega-catfishing himself. 403 Co Rd 386 They cant be simply lipped and lifted into the boat. In a . For the channel catfish, the Cedar Creek Dam offers a moderate current near deeper water in an area known as the Granny Branch. When trophy fishing for any species, we have to be aware that these extra-large fish are powerful animals. Dale County Lake or Ed Lisenby Lake is a 92-acre (370,000 m 2) lake located 1 mile (2 km) north of Roy Parker Road (Dale County Road 36) in Ozark. They include Lake Guntersville, Lewis Smith Lake, Pickwick Lake, Wheeler Lake and Wilson Lake. The rivers temperature can vary from temperate in the shallows to near-freezing in open water. They just take the bait and go.. With average summer water temperatures of 80, youll definitely want to pack your swim suits. 205 387-1208. Is The Flathead Catfish An Invasive Species In Pa? This oxbow is another solid choice for anglers looking for a giant catfish. Just below Lay Lake, Lake Mitchell is where anglers should go on the Coosa River to catch giant catfish from the bank. The blue catfish caught by Mullenix weighed in at 121.5 lbs, which was not only a Texas state record but also a world record. The best fishing for big cats occurs when the dams are generating maximum current. Catfishing is a fine old Southern tradition. People, especially the Caboclos in Amazonia and natives of other parts of South America and in Asia, love to tell these blood-curdling stories! Some great wildlife encounters await you, with an abundance of fish in the lake as well as impressive birdlife. Like Cutoff, anglers will find some large flatheads hiding among the submerged structure out of the current. Petrie caught the trout in Twizel, New Zealands (South Island) Ohau Canal on Oct. 27, 2020. He said she caught her bi However, Sallie Wilson reportedly saw the creature in the mid-1830s and experienced no ill effects. Like most lakes in the region, the lake comprises multiple offshoots and branches rather than one big body of water. So come on and enjoy the fishing on Smith Lake today! Yes, the state does stock trout on the lower side of the damn ,and the water is always cold on that side, I"m talking about the upper side, Very deep water alote of current and alote of shad. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Big catfish can be quite dangerous if not handled properly. There are a few types of Seatrout, our most abundant fish, that live along Alabamas Gulf Coast. This is where and how these big fish are targeted on Lay Lake. The Solution. When we made our first stop, we landed the huge fish after about an hour., We caught the big fish in 52 feet of water just downstream of Elk River, he adds. A 280-mile-long tributary of the Alabama River, the Coosa River is a heavily developed body of water with multiple impoundments, dams, lakes, and of course, lots of big catfish. Pickwick has around two miles of the public swimming beach, but it is unsupervised. Bring your pleasure or fishing boat or find boat rentals locally. From fried catfish to the most excellent pulled BBQ pork found anywhere in the US, Alabama is unrivaled when it comes to throwing down in the kitchen. 120 lbs.Procedures for the Certification of Alabama State Record Freshwater Fish. The lakes northwestern and northeastern areas offer better flathead catfish locations, with cuts, bays, and channels dotting its shorelines. In addition to big stripers, catfish, crappie, bluegill, white bass, sunfish and largemouth, spotted and smallmouth bass all thrive here. After a short fight, the 75-pound catfish was in the boat.. So, when a big catfish is caught, it should be released. Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Smith Lake Dam Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking. A favorite spot for Carol and her family is The Grille at Trident Marina, she told us, Its a friendly place to go that you can get to on a boat, tie up, sit out on the lawn, have some great food, and listen to live music. 256 756-7946if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aa_fishing_com-leader-1','ezslot_7',131,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aa_fishing_com-leader-1-0'); Duskin Point Marina Boat Rentals Ed Mashburn writes extensively about fishing for Great Days Outdoors. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Smith Mountain Lake is well known to fishermen all over the US for its striped bass fishing. Millers Ferry Lake runs about 105 miles along the river to the Claiborne Dam in Monroe County. However, the possibility of landing one of these monster catfish on typical catfish rigs is minimal. This means gorgeous, blissful privacy and stunning natural scenery. Click here for a Alabama Fishing License. (Contributed by Nat Geo WILD). Anglers can even fish part of this location from shore from the Lake Eufaula Campground. great white sharkWhat Was the Largest Fish Ever Caught? For big blue cats and channel catfish, working the top of the dams overflow with a bottom rig or the dams tailwaters are both great opportunities for anglers to break out the beloved bottom rigs and use stink bait, cut bait, or liver to set the hook on a monster. The cut that ends at Madwind Road is an excellent example of this. Stay safe and good luck out on the water. First is to get out early and find fish schooled on shad or bluebacks. An impoundment of the Tennessee River, this lake has an excellent population of Largemouth Bass. Fish must be identified by an Alabama Fisheries Section biologist or other certified fisheries biologist. Bait & Tackle: NEARBY It does not store any personal data. Weve gotten to know people at the marina and at local stores. Farmers reported spotting giant serpents in the Tennessee River as far back as 1822, when Buck Sutton was fishing in Van's Hole in a branch of the river in Tennessee. Minnows, nightcrawlers, and even crawfish are great baits to lure out these yellow-bellied giants. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. This is a blue catfish that weighed 23 pounds and measured 36.5 inches in length. But fishs stomachs are , Use large-sized baits such as dead bluegill, live chubs, water dogs, crayfish and frogs when seeking larger catfish. Stacker compiled a list of record fish caught in Alabama using data from Land Big Fish. Bankhead Lake is best known for catches of largemouth bass and spotted bass. You might not know that Smith Lake is BIG! For the past 10 years, Hogan has been working to find, study and protect the worlds largest freshwater fish. This Alabama River reservoirs level fluctuates, resulting in changing catfish hotspots depending on the season. Whats the biggest fish in Smith Mountain Lake? The truth is out there, and Dr. Zeb Hogan of the Nat Geo WILD channel is looking for it. 205-435-4009. Sutton and his friends were alarmed because people along the river knew that anyone who looked upon the serpent was cursed. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The current state record for the fish is 53 lbs. Because shad and sunfish fluctuate in number and size throughout the year, check the waters to see whats schooling before baiting your rig. And that fine fish was not an unusual catch. While size matters in a lot of things, this smaller reservoir proves that good things can come in small packages. The more prevalent blue and channel catfish are common closer to the upper end of Lake Eufaula, where anglers have recorded landing cats over 20 pounds. Anglers who are fishing from a boat often stick with a cork baited with bait fish. Finally, anglers are faced with what to do with a monster catfish. Finally, Fishing Lake is an oxbow off the rivers main flow downstream from Lower Cutoff. Head to cover early morning for the most hits. Leda told me how she commutes from Smith Lake to Birmingham. Anglers can catch some catfish from the docks, but most anglers there are fishing for panfish and using nightcrawlers or even crappie pellets under a cork when a surprise catfish strikes. I spool my reels with 80 lb test yellow Vicious braided line. Images by Vic Dunaway. Some are big and others are small. Fishing can be done by boat or along the banks of the 6,272 hectare lake. Weighing must be witnessed by two people. Here, the mouth of Yellow Leaf Creek and the shoreline north of Dry Branch towards the dam are both easy-to-access locations you can fish at Lay Lake. The really big catfish are not nearly as good to eat as the smaller ones, and the big ones are the brood fish that continually re-stock the lake with more catfish. Farther downstream, anglers will find success angling for flatheads along the Alabama Rivers banks by fishing along the heavily forested shoreline and working deep corks over submerged structures. White Oak Creek is another spot where anglers can trace its tributaries far past the campground and into murky, structure-filled water perfect for flatheads and largemouths. When a big catfish is brought aboard, anglers need to resist the temptation to immediately lift up the fish and take pictures. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. If youre not sold on lakeside versus seaside yet, consider this. The car-sized catfish legend is widespread, he said. High, dingy water always makes for a better catfish bite. Boat Rental: YES This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Smith Lake is a 326 acre lake located in Sawyer County. Largemouths | Lake Eufaula. At Smith Lake dam you have water over 200 ft. in places. The food supply combines with healthy water conditions for prime catfish living. Mike slowly pulled the rod straight down to about a half-bend. Known for monster striped bass, Smith Lake AKA Lewis Smith Lake is a 21,000-acre lake located in north-central Alabama about an hour north of Birmingham. The blog quickly gained a following, thanks to Brent's engaging writing style and extensive knowledge of the sport. The lake is home to largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, as well as crappie, catfish, and . The ultimate respect an angler can show such a magnificent fish is to admire it, photograph it, weigh and measure it, and then release it back into the water safely. William D. Webb, B'ham First, the lakes are very big and they all have a healthy food base for the big ones. This is one of the best baits for big striped bass and hybrids. Globally, there are 27 kinds of sturgeons. Sherril Harris, Sylacauga, Lake Martin, Tallapoosa Co. I use an eight-foot medium-action BnM Silver Cat Series catfish rod with an Abu 6500C3 reel with a line counter, he says. Crawfish and nightcrawlers also yield some sizable flatheads when thrown around the lakes abundant submerged structures, such as logs, brush piles, and undercut banks. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Marina: YES Nightcrawler. The black crappie would weigh an astonishing 5 lbs 7.68 oz, making it not only the new Tennessee state record (previously held since 1985) but the world record. Gloves are necessary equipment for handling mega-catfish. Anglers can find plenty of sizable flathead catfish lurking around the submerged stumps and fallen timber in murky water. Rainbow trout are stocked in the Smith Lake tailwaters from Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery and in Madison County Public Fishing Lake from private sources. This 45,180-acre reservoir straddles the Georgia and Alabama line and is rich with angling opportunities for blue and channel catfish. Catfishing is a fine old Southern tradition. This 4,200-acre reservoir in northwestern Alabama yields excellent catfish angling, especially for flatheads and channel cats. (now protected, I have always thought. Yates Lake is a 2,000-acre lake located in east-central Alabama on the Tallapoosa River about 30 minutes northeast of Montgomery. Hoover resident Carol DiPlacido talked with me about her familys decision to purchase a weekend lakeside cabin on Smith Lake, and it turns out being easy and quick to get to was an important factor. , Best Answer From Peter in Australia: A hook will rust away in a fish, but it may take a while, especially if the hook is plated or made of thick metal. Wes what most people call deep is 60 ft. At Smith Lake dam you have. Guide To Fishing At Lewis Smith Lake AKA: Smith Lake Known for monster striped bass, Smith Lake AKA Lewis Smith Lakeis a 21,000-acre lake located in north-central Alabama about an hour north of Birmingham. But those creatures existed in the Eocene Epoch between 34 and 50 million years ago and not in modern-day Alabama. READ SOMETHING ELSE. caught in 2000 from below the SML dam in Leesville Lake. The typical recommendation is to fish about 2-3 hours before high tide to about 2-3 hours outgoing tide. Its small town living., This is echoed by ARC Realtys Leda Mims, Ive been coming to the lake since I was nine years old. Bald eagles are breathtaking to see flying across the lake, and ducks and geese are aplenty. Top spots for channel cats include the split between Dunns Bend and Cold Branch, the bend north of Smith Camp Boat Launch, and the mouth of Hurricane Creek. Line matters and Captain Mike recommends sticking with 10-pound or 12-pound test. The 24 kilometre long lake stretches from the city of Florence to the Wheeler Dam. Its possible to hook very large catfish on standard-issue fishing gear. What is the slot limit on bass on Smith Lake? Its a joy to live at Smith Lake!. It has a maximum depth of 29 feet. As mentioned, the dam is always an excellent choice. With over 600 miles of shoreline, this emerald green-appearing gem in North Alabama is rated among the cleanest man made lakes in the U.S. In addition to big stripers, catfish, crappie, bluegill, white bass, sunfish and largemouth, spotted and smallmouth bass all thrive here. Procedures For the Certification of Alabama State Record Freshwater Fish, Shelley Meadows/Mentone Cullman, AL 35057 This lake snakes its way across the forested northwestern Alabama Hill Country with various creeks and small channels filled with cover, making it a flathead paradise in addition to an excellent bass lake. Fishing from the Elkahatchee Creek Boat Ramp is a viable option, thanks to a small fishing pier that faces into the channel under the Coven Abbott Highway. October 12, 2022 September 16, 2022 by Brent Pollock. Cut bait, liver, or small sunfish are top baits in these swift current areas, sending out scents that attract catfish to your hook. It is normally dressed in either a rubber skirt or hair. No remains have ever been found to support existence of river serpents. Also fueling the big fish tales is the fact that river creatures likely grew even larger in the past, before humans and chemicals interfered with habitats. We used my Hummingbird 1198 to locate the fish, Captain Brian says. Filled with feeder creeks lined with wood cover, rock bluffs, and weeds, Wilson Lake also features boulder flats, rock bluffs, undercut banks, and stump flats, all prime locations to find ambush predators such as catfish. Anglers should moor outside the channel opening and cast into the current, letting the scent drift into the moving water and drawing the catfish out from near the dam. With blue catfish regularly caught over 50 pounds, Wilson Lake has deeper holes in its lower half, and the upper end features a strong current due to Wheeler Dam. Other places to eat nearby to the lake include: If youre willing to drive a bit further out, theres plenty of places in nearby towns, and youll get back to the lake in no time. Shelby, AL 35143 A deep cork is just what the doctor ordered for this fishing hole, and anglers can rip into some huge flathead catfish at the stump field. Know before you go Cullman and Winston County are dry (no alcohol is available) while Walker County allows alcohol sales with the limitation that no alcohol may be purchased on a Sunday. I could see the thing as clear as day," reported newspaper columnist E. Randall Floyd in a 1993 article in the Spartanburg, S.C., Herald-Journal. What is the name of the largest fish found in Alabama freshwater? Anglers looking to chase flatheads should work near the bank above the dam and target likely locations, such as near the mouths of Coon Creek and Sougahatchee Creek. Yates Reservoir) is a 1,980-acre body of water filled with various fish, including blue, channel, and flathead catfish. Jason Trahan has found shrimp soaked in Anise has been one of the most effective baits for catching catfish in Alabama. We rode over the area several times and located a few fish there. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'aa_fishing_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_8',132,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aa_fishing_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Lewis Smith Lake Public Boat Launch Ramp Click images for fishing tips and details about each species. What is the biggest fish caught in the world? The bridge funnels the water through a small underpass with a decent current, and the water here is deep enough to house some monster channel cats. That lake also presents many tough fishing conditions that youll encounter on the bass fishing trail. Located in the northwest section of the lake, off County Road 108, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with roadside parking. A fresh mega-catfish is very strong, and these fish come with very stout and dangerous spines on several of their fins. Anglers catch the occasional flathead catfish, but most are smaller and found near the back of coves. Rate article Keep the two pounders for a fish fry.. 1560 County Road 4022 We have a townhouse in Hoover and a lake house as our main residence, which lots of people are doing now. The deep, clear water of Smith Lake and its sheer size make it the perfect water playground. Supposedly, the record is a 123 lb. ). However, the largest catfish in North America are blue cats, and the world record blue catfish caught in North Carolina in 2011 weighed 143 pounds. These locations usually have a current and are best angled with a bottom rig, such as a Carolina or Texas rig baited with the cut bait or liver. A cork baited with nightcrawlers, shad, or small perch is a great way to see whats hiding along the heavily forested shoreline. The nearest boat launch is the Cochrane Recreation Area, and after a short boat ride down the river and catching Lubbub Creek into the lake, youre in deep blue catfish territory. On his trip to the Tennessee Aquarium, Hogan dove with fish in its new River Giants exhibit so he could experience swimming with the over-sized specimens. Seumas Petrie is the world record holder, with a 44-pound, 5-inch brown trout that measured 38.58 inches long with a 34-inch girth. We need to gear up right if were going trophy catfish hunting. A kayak fishing enthusiast, he loves paddling into those hidden honey holes in search of all types of gamefish. But if youd like to up your game, check out our complete guide to catfish fishing techniques, including the best baits, tackle and plenty of tips. The photo is controversial because a descendant of the man who took the photo claims the man in the photo is actually a cardboard cutout to make the fish appear larger. A forum community dedicated to catfishers and enthusiasts. The Heart of Dixie is home to various species of freshwater game fish, and catfish are among the most popular Alabama game fish for anglers and chefs alike. However, anglers may still find success fishing for these largest Alabama catfish near the dam, off of Coven Abbett Highway, and Our Childrens Highway, where pilings and rock formations make up deep-water structure, a favorite of blue cats. It is another great lake to visit if you plan to do any fishing this summer. All content on this site is Copyright Rushing Waters MediaLLC/Bham Now 2016-2023. Here, anglers will find a heavily flooded forest that shelters catfish from the stiff current of the river but is still deep enough water to rip into some big cats. This 39,000-acre reservoir in Central Alabama provides some of the best fishing in the entire state. The jig of a jig and pig is usually a lead head jig with a fairly big hook. Anglers may be able to catch shad at the back of the lake by cast net or buy them from a bait shop. 13 Best Catfish Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Alabama. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Brent grew up spending his summers out on the water, exploring the many rivers, streams, and lakes of the region. Does the thought of being able to leave Birmingham and play on the lake in little over an hour sound as great to you, as it does to me? Nat Geo WILD describes the episode on giant catfish in a press release: Lured by stories of catfish the size of Volkswagens, Zeb is on a mission to find out if the legendary giant catfish of the South really exists.. Duncan Bridge Marina They look to consume as many calories as possible while burning as few calories as possible, therefore they do their most aggressive feeding when their advantage over the baitfish is greatestat peak tide. Application must be submitted on official. What is this? Fishing in water that is 15 to 25 feet deep is a good bet during the outgoing tide. Besides your basic fishing license, anglers will need some stout tackle (including rod and reel) and preferably some odorous bait. Locations like the Bartletts Ferry Dam and several bridges are also great blue catfish angling locations. The lakes deeper holes and areas with heavy currents are your best bet for locating channel catfish. 256 338-1741, Trident Marina But due to its dense concentration of blue catfish, I think its worth a longer look. Anglers can make their way to the R. F. Henry Lock and cast from the rocky shoreline on either side of the lake with heavy tackle and bottom rigs to catch these monster catfish. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Longtime sustainability and recycling champion. All in all, this area is a solid choice if youre looking to hammer some big blues or channel cats. Rentals: Pontoon boats Crappie, spotted bass and sauger add to the action. Rumor has it, country music superstar, Billy Ray Cyrus, has a place on Smith Lake. Smith Lake Public Boat Launch Ramp 175 County Road 312 Another suggestion is to cast into the cuts near the boat launch and dock. Wilson Lake sits in northern Alabama and was created by the Wilson Dam. So is Catzilla real? Here in Alabama, we are known for our food. My name is Keith Prather and fishing has been a big part of my life since I could hold a rod. The different types of bass stripers that exist require different size hooks to catch. With over 500 miles of shoreline everyone can wet a line and know there is that chance of catching the fish of a lifetime. Smith Lake homes some very good largemouth and spotted bass fishing. Rich with submerged woody cover, this lake reaches depths up to 60 feet closer to the dam, with creek channels that dip down to 20 feet. Instead, the usual mega-catfish battle is very intense but fairly short. What lurks beneath the deceptively placid surfaces of Alabamas rivers? They are common in many freshwater areas, including moving streams and still lakes. The results of his research will appear in the first episode of a new season of Monster Fish at 9 p.m. Central time on July 5. Bloodworms and Sandworms as Striped Bass Baits Bloodworms and sandworms are highly effective striper baits just about everywhere these fish are found, virtually any time of the year. Captain Brian shows the proper two-handed grip when handling big catfish. Also known as Walter F George Lake, is a bass angler's dream with almost 600 miles of shoreline to fish. If the bait is on the bottom, the fish will lift it and relieve the pressure fairly gently. WHNT News 19 viewer Larry Stephens sent in photos of his wife April fishing on the lake. "At end of the day, there certainly is some truth to these stories but people also enjoy telling stories. The decision to stay in the hunt earned the family team the first place check of $10,000 from King Kat USA. These small fish are the best bait for the bottom rigs used at this location. Those four or five bites in a day are likely to come from very big fish. Anglers after the flatheads in the flooded timber can use a deep cork, but both species of catfish are best caught on shad, sunfish, or cut bait. Duncan Bridge Marina Boat Launch Ramp RV Hookups: YES Fish Species & State Records in Alabama Bass Largemouth bass World record: 22 lbs 4 oz State Record: 16 lbs 8 oz Smallmouth bass World record: 11 lbs 15 oz State Record: 10 lbs 8 oz Spotted bass World record: 9 lbs 8 oz Always look for moving water and watch your fishfinder for deep holes to help you find the best site. Smith Lake is a huge reservoir located on the Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River, about 20 miles north-west of Birmingham. This 1,550-acre lake in northern Alabama is home to some massive blue and channel catfish. The Tombigbee produces excellent catfish angling along its path, which includes five dams and locks before joining the Mobile River and emptying into Mobile Bay, where the attention turns to redfish and other saltwater fishing. The fishing here is good. Have you thought about getting your own place? Blue, bullhead, channel, flathead, and white catfish inhabit Alabama's inland rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes. Parker Creek Marina also features several fishing piers that put anglers on open deep water without leaving shore. #1. You can find these baits at just about any local fishing bait and tackle shop. Anglers best bet for catching these big, hungry ambush predators by boat is to work the shoreline around Lost Creek Boat Ramp, including Hester Branch, Smelser Spring Branch, and Dudley Hollow with a deep cork. It shall be unlawful for any angler to fish with more than three rods and reels, or poles, or any combination thereof on Weiss Reservoir or Neely Henry lakes at any time. Suspended fish are the hardest fish for me to do anything with, but it can be done and some people do it very well. Its such an easy commute!. Even the very large75 pounds and overcatfish dont fight for an extremely long time. In 1877, reports appeared in The Gadsden Times of sightings of serpents in the Coosa River, a tributary of the Alabama River. Rich with juvenile bass, sunfish, and crappie, this lake is the perfect feeding ground for monster catfish. Wilson Lake is an all-around fishing destination, including one of the best places in Alabama to go crappie fishing. I tried in 105' of water and got nothing. Also referred to as the Middle Pond, Yates Lake (a.k.a. Located in the southeast section of the lake, off County Road 41, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Catfishing Fall Catfishing for Trophy Flatheads on Lay Lake Apex predators, flatheads don't conform to catfishing stereotypes. A fisherman reported seeing a 20-foot-long creature with large fins slithering near the banks at Ball Play Creek before it slipped beneath the surface. Anglers catch the occasional flathead here around flooded timber, but locations such as Kearnens Bar and Summerville Bar let anglers moor their boats and cast into deep water with a stiff current. Catfish will move into shallow water in the dead of winter if heavy current exists. April. The best catfish angling on the Coosa River is at Lay Lake and Lake Mitchell. Alternative locations anglers can target include the cuts on the northern portion of the lakes western shoreline. In exotic locales, yes. Wet, Nasty Crawlspace? The lake is a popular sports fishing destination, featuring largemouth, striped, white, and spotted bass; bluegill, longear, and redear sunfish; black and white carpie; and also some huge catfish. Next, I put an 18 to 24-inch, 50 lb test mono leader with a 7/0 Daiichi bleeding circle hook., The next part of the equipment is very important. Here is a preview of the July 5 episode of "Monster Fish" on Nat Geo WILD. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. The trick to locking into catfish is selecting the areas that each species is most likely to inhabit. Most specially regulated trout waters are closed to taking fishbait and baitfish at all times. 22 pounds, 4 ouncesOfficial Largemouth World Record: George Perrys Undefeated Bass. Lewis Smith Lake has the following amenities based off of . Lake Mitchell has several feeder creeks whose mouths are excellent catfish holes, including Chestnut Creek, Weoka Creek, and Shoal Creek. Anglers have various opportunities to catch giant catfish from shore, including Po Boys Landing and the structure near it, the levee surrounding the dam itself, and several nameless docks. Car-sized catfish do exist. Some truly monstrous catfish are living in the rivers and lakes of Alabama; fish in the 100-pound range are caught on rod and reel every year. , Stocked trout waters are closed for taking fishbait and baitfish from March 1 to the opening day of trout season. The Yates Dam makes for some incredible angling locations along the Tallapoosa Rivers heavily forested shorelines. We might wonder why the mega-catfish population is so large in the big northern lakes, namely Wheeler, Wilson, and Pickwick. Located in the southwest section of the lake, at the east end of the State Route 41 Bridge, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking. Catfish Shark found lurking at Smith Lake in Alabama.. Are you looking to sell your home or shopping around for a new one? For more on how to catch catfish, please see our how-to article about catfish fishing linked at the bottom of this article. Rentals: Pontoon boats Another reason for the massive number of catfish is the crash of the commercial catfish market. Youll hear it from scuba divers and fishermen, he said. Elvira Bowen is a food expert who has dedicated her life to understanding the science of cooking. Cappy's Boats Here are some of the best fishing lakes in Alabama: Lewis Smith Lake Located in the northwest part of the state, Lewis Smith Lake is a popular destination for bass fishing. Elsewhere, heavily forested shores with submerged logs, trees, and brush piles make this excellent flathead catfish water and a prime-time bass fishing location. After all, big baits catch big fish. I weigh big catfish while they are still in the net, and then I give them time to settle down before we take pictures, Captain Brian says. We thought a lot about whether to get a beach house or a lake house. Never fear. All Rights Reserved. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These spots also make for great bass or crappie fishing, while anglers have their bottom rigs out for giant catfish. Captain Brian adds, I use a Hi-Tek rod holder, and then I wait for the fish to bite. Boat Launch Ramp: YES | Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us |, Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. I catfish up at the Cullman end of the lake. Most of us enjoy catching a mess of delicious pan-size catfish from time to time. A quality rod holder allows the fish to eat and take the bait without an over-eager angler trying to set the hook. The fish (the whopper) weighed 22 pounds, 4 ounces. Having fished here several times, I recommend giving it about 10 minutes per location before trying a new spot. The earth- and rock-filled dam is 2,200 feet long and 300 feet tall, one of the largest dams of its type in the . This 5,850-acre reservoir off the Chattahoochee River makes for some excellent catfish angling. Do NOT follow this link or you will be banned from the site! (Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources . The mouth of Havoc Branch or the cuts on either side of Seales Nursery are upstream from the dam but still have a decent current with relatively deep channels. Each one is rare and protected by state and federal agencies. Known for monster striped bass, Smith Lake AKA Lewis Smith Lake is a 21,000-acre lake located in north-central Alabama about an hour north of Birmingham. This Mekong giant catfish was discovered in Thailand in 2007. Another great location is the Lower Cutoff south of Jackson. He spotted an undulating creature and told friends: "The thing was monstrous. Trophy potential exists in backwater areas. Big catfish show up well on fish finder units, and good electronics can really cut down on the search time when were looking for big cats. Lewis Smith Lake fishing for big striped bass and a host of other species in north-central AL. This is a myth, along with age-old claims that giant anacondas or piranhas eat men. Whats the biggest largemouth bass ever caught? Bassett Creek, Wash. Co. Bham Now has pulled together this handy, dandy guide to give you a glimpse of what its really like. Known for monster striped bass, Smith Lake AKA Lewis Smith Lake is a 21,000-acre lake located in north-central Alabama about an hour north of Birmingham. First on the list is the ubiquitous nightcrawler, favored food for all fish species. if youre 16 and older. Most of us enjoy catching a mess of delicious pan-size catfish from time to time. Yellow and chartreuse are fish-catchers because, simply put, they get seen. . 16229 HWY 42 Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. From species that top out at just over a pound to the 120-pound state-record blue catfish, anglers can catch catfish of all sizes in Alabama. Because channel catfish love deep holes and currents, its essential to locate deeper holes with fast-moving water to target these hungry catfish. The best time of day to catch striped bass is early morning from dawn until about 2 hours after sunrise and late afternoon from 2 hours before sunset until dusk. Lodging: YES Dont try to handle a big catfish when it first hits the deck. All rights reserved (About Us). Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. A typical northern-strain five-pounder might be anywhere between six and 16 years old, McHugh reports. It sat motionlessly. Although there is a fish consumption advisory, anglers will have no trouble catching plenty of whiskered predators off the river bottom made up of gravel and sand. Why you should care, the quality of the air you breathe depends on it. While many of the worlds largest freshwater fish are located outside of North America, several large species can be found in area rivers, including blue catfish, flathead catfish, the Mississippi paddlefish, lake sturgeon, pallid sturgeon, and the alligator gar. The Sacramento River system starts to fill up with stripers as they migrate up to Knights Landing and Colusa to start the spawn. Home to striped bass and catfish, this area is rich with shad and features a stiff current over plenty of deep holes where anglers can hook into some truly impressive fish. Fish include Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike and Walleye. Check out local properties for sale. Growing up, we fished mostly for catfish, bream, crappie and black bass . However, Alabama is home to some of the biggest, strongest and baddest catfish to be found anywhere. April and May are the prime time. The station is in the southeastern arm of the lake, which is full of creeks and cuts. At the same time, Catfish Bar, just downstream, lets you fish a wide river bend over deep water. The $29 million project was formally dedicated on May 23, 1961, and named for Alabama Power Company president Lewis M. Smith, who had been closely involved in its planning and design. Residents need to have a recreational license to fish in Alabama. Geneva County is a prohibition or dry county. March 06, 2019 By Eileen Ann Davis. Alabama sports a surprising number of lakes with a population of walleye. Visitors have access to the lake from a public boat landing. Fishermen tell tall tales.". Anglers can catch plenty of decent-sized catfish from shore, but they often catch the largest catfish in the cut to the right of the Bartletts Ferry Hydro Dam or in the dams tailwaters in the Chattahoochee River below the dam itself. Fishing for striped bass can be even better in the hours before a major cold front or rain event arrives. Caught off the coast of Ceduna, Australia, in 1959, it took angler Alfred Dean just 50 minutes to win the fight against this one-ton shark. 256 737-7131if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'aa_fishing_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_9',133,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aa_fishing_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Trident Marine - Lay Lake While many of the world's largest freshwater fish are located outside of North America, several large species can be found in area rivers, including blue catfish, flathead catfish, the. What is the largest catfish ever caught in Alabama? The bridges funnel the water through with a current just south of Chewalla Creek. Then up near a Creek in 35' of water and nothing there either. Bankhead Lake is dotted with log jams, creek miles, points, and thick weeds, perfect cover for ambush predators like the flathead catfish. Carol added You get a real feeling of community at Smith Lake. The Tombigbee Rivers blue catfish tend to hold in the main channel in spots like the Ball Bluff Bridge near Coffeeville, McGrews Shoals near St. Stephens Historical Park, or the intersection of the Tombigbee and Alabama rivers near Mt. What is the largest catfish ever caught in the United States? release when captured). Try fishing in deeper water during the outgoing tide. Bob Woodruff Lake, this reservoir has rocky undercut banks lining the shores closer to its dam. A net that is too small or rotten and not up to the strain of landing a heavy fish is a recipe for disaster. A favorite location of crappie anglers, the lakes stump field is best known for producing solid slabs consistently. No matter what species of catfish you hope to catch at Lake Martin, your best bet is to stick with a bottom rig baited with live shad, minnows, or small sunfish. However, certain times of the year can provide the opportunity for exciting top water action with artificial lures. Former county recycling manager in the UK. In the low light and during the frenzied feed, they hit just about anythinga zig-zagging Spook is a good starter, but sometimes its necessary to downsize a bit to some of the smaller floater divers like the Rapala or Rebel. Dont be surprised if it takes some time to hook into a catfish, which scatter throughout the lake. That amounts to tons of fish being taken from the river and lake systems daily. Leda Mims of ARC Realty told me I love it all! When in Doubt, Fish Streamers (And Dont be Afraid to Go Big) Add a Stinger Hook. Since the bite on Wilson and Pickwick was slow, I contacted Mike Mitchell of Albertville who has a great deal of experience on Wheeler Lake to see if we could locate a trophy fish. The largest catfish species in North America are blue cats. Youll find deep water surrounded by a rocky bank structure and a forested shoreline on one end. The dams tailwaters and the rocky shorelines are home to large channel and blue catfish, feasting on the baitfish brought by the current. Anglers should note that in recent years, chemical drain-off has affected the edibility of fish in over 200 waterways, so check with your local Fish and Game office before consuming any fish from Alabama waterways. Using a live minnow, shad, or crawfish, anglers should target submerged structures such as fallen trees or undercut banks to rip into massive flathead. It has a boat dock with swim platform and is less than 10 mins to I65 perfect for commuting to Birmingham. Some of these stories we hear about Volkswagon-sized catfish and people seeing serpents in the water come from older times when probably even bigger animals and fish were living in rivers and lakes, Hogan said. Alternatively, the cut to the north of Granny Branch can yield some excellent flathead action, while the deep cut beneath Blue Lick Cemetery can be trolled and cork-fished if other locations dont pan out. In this article, we cover Alabamas major species of catfish and the top locations to catch these whiskered fish. Reach out to ARC Realty for more information. Of course, when the mega-catfish decides that playtime is over, it will apply plenty of pressure to the angler. By boat, anglers should also try the rocks lining Bumpass Creek Road, where they may find the occasional blue or channel catfish lurking amongst the boulders or near the underpass. In the 1800s, tales of serpents abounded in both rivers, including a legend in which anyone spotting the creature was cursed and soon would die. Price: $330,000. Straddling the Alabama-Georgia line, this lake is filled with cuts, islands, coves, and miles of forested shoreline, making it the perfect habitat for flathead catfish. Catfish are versatile and can live in practically any body of water in Alabama. Pickwick Lake, located in Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee, covers 43,100 acres (174 km) and is well known for smallmouth bass and Tennessee River Catfish. However, boat anglers can moor out of the main river flow by ducking behind the small concrete structure on the dams right side and casting into the stronger current. 4 pounds 12 ouncesThe Biggest Bluegill in the World The world record bluegill recorded by IGFA or the International Gamefish Association was caught in 1950 at Ketona Lake, Alabama. What is the best bait for freshwater striped bass? Anglers will have the most success near these spots with bottom rigs, baited with small sunfish, shad, minnows, cut bait, or liver. Smith Park Boat Launch Ramp Rentals: Pontoon boats What Do I Need to Catch Catfish in Alabama? For instance, when Captain Brian recently caught his 75 pounder, the actual fight lasted less than ten minutes. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Before heading out in search of your trophy Alabama catfish, make sure to purchase a fishing license and check all state and local regulations. There are some exceptions, however. His goal: catch a monster catfish. Cheneyhatchee Creek also has forested, cut-lined banks for prime flathead and catfish angling. We will use blueback herring and shad legally caught on Smith Lake. They also make an awesome Sunset Margarita. When fishing for blues in the main current of the Tombigbee River, anglers should stick to fishfinder or Carolina rigs that will keep your set-up pinned to the bottom and the bait in the water column. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. I slide a one to two-ounce egg sinker up on the line, and then I place a bead between the sinker and a barrel swivel. Geneva County Lake consists of two lakes, 33- and 32 acres (130,000 m 2) in size, located 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Enterprise off County Road 63. Other prime-time fishing locations include the mouth of Fourmile Creek, Trousdale Hollow, the intersection of Shoal Creek, and the mouth of McKiernan Creek. What is the largest catfish ever caught in the United States? A number of guides on the major north Alabama lakes can put anglers on these monster catfish. Channel catfish are stocked into state-owned public fishing lakes on a put-grow-and-take or put-and-take basis as indicated by biological monitoring and lake catch records. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Get a Head Lamp with White and Red Light. Hidden Cove Boat Launch Ramp These guys would harvest 300 to 400 pounds of catfish. The fishing on Smith Lake is like no other! Your Guide to Quintessential AL Foods. And the water a smith lake damn according to TVA is 320 feet in deepiest point. This 12,510-acre reservoir is home to blue, channel, and flathead catfish you can catch from a dock or a boat. Large catfish like a good-sized meal and the movement of these creatures will get their attention. Large cats will show as bright yellow or red arches on the unit.. HUGE, actually! The runner-up spot went to Wayne and Travis Bodine. WE ARE YOUR SOURCE FOR FISHING DESTINATIONS IN ALABAMA! This Tombigbee River backwater in western Alabama near Aliceville could have been lumped in with our coverage of the river. This photo is an example of historic pictures Dr. Zeb Hogan studies when researching legends of giant fish. The flooded forest here creates small estuary-like pockets of deep water surrounded by structures off the main channel of the Tombigbee River. In the mid-1900s, the most popular legendary river creature became catzilla, a species of catfish that reportedly grew to the size of Volkswagon Beetles at several dams along the Tennessee River. Plus, it makes catching striped bass a lot more fun. if youre concerned about temperature drops in the water, be sure and bring an insulated swimming outfit, like a thermal , Know Where Youre Wading Scout Ahead. Click here to see the full listing. Good quality electronics are just as important for finding and catching trophy catfish as they are for bass fishing. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. "My job as a scientist is to separate fact from fiction but 'fact' is already amazing and unbelievable enough," Hogan said. As the legend foretold, Sutton died a few days after the sighting. Captain Brian says the prime months for catching really big catfish are September through March. Book your fishing trip today. Hogan said a 140-pound fish would seem larger in the muddy depths of a river. . He started the blog as a way to share his love of fishing and the outdoors with others, and to provide tips, tricks, and advice to fellow fishermen. Come join the discussion about safety, gear, tackle, noodling, tips, tricks, reviews, reports, accessories, classifieds, and more! A good pair of leather gloves is also a good idea when holding up a monster catfish. Restaurant: YES. Join al.com reporter Kelly Kazek on her weekly journey through Alabama to record the region's quirky history, strange roadside attractions and tales of colorful characters. Filled with brush piles and submerged trees, Pickwick Lake also has multiple deep water holes and is rich in minnows, shad, and crawfish. Fishing 24-7 Guide Service offers guided trips on Smith Lake, Alabama for trophy striped bass. How big catfish commonly found in North American waters can actually get is widely disputed. So the fish will be suspended in the upper third of the water. 90% of his catches are channel cats and about 10% are blue catfish. Wes I have never catfished below Smith Lake dam. Alabama sports a surprising number of lakes with a population of walleye. Where is the best catfishing in Alabama? GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. - One fisher caught a large catfish at Lake Guntersville. I caught several small fish, but I had no luck on a fish over 30 pounds. Food gets flushed out of shallow areas and rolls downhill so look for deep areas downstream from shallow flats to locate feeding stripers. Arley, Alabama 35541 Additionally, hit the dams tailwaters with a bottom rig using cut bait, liver, or small sunfish. Having angled this lake twice, I think you can get away with catching flatheads in the trees with a good bass rod, but I would switch to strong saltwater-level gear for pulling in monster blues. As Captain Brian advises, Any fish over ten pounds needs to be released. A law was passed in 2017 meaning that marinas with restaurants can serve alcohol regardless of what the law is in the county. A top hotspot is below Wheeler Dam, where swift current and various structures make for prime-time catfish angling. Holt Reservoir is a modest sized 3,296-acre lake on the Black . On June 2nd, 1932, George Perry caught the current world record bass out of Lake Montgomery, an oxbow lake off the Ocmulgee River in southern Georgia. On Smith Lake you can find species such as large mouth bass, small mouth bass,spotted bass, large striped bass, crappie and much more. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Arley, AL 35541 With five significant species in Alabama, catfish are one of the most sought-after fish in the state. Campgrounds: YES A 43,000-acre lake divided between Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, this giant impoundment on the Tennessee River provides some of the best big catfish angling between the three states. Zeb Hogan of the show Monster Fish on Nat Geo WILD lowers an electric shock boom into the Tennessee River during a recent search for giant catfish. In Alabama, we have three residents: the Alabama sturgeon, the Gulf sturgeon and the Lake sturgeon. For instance, the water between the twin spans between Eufaula, Alabama, and Georgetown, Georgia, is a prime catfish location. How do you catch stripers at Smith Mountain Lake? Smith Lake, a stunning location that offers panoramic views, amazing sunsets, as well as endless watersports your family is sure to enjoy. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Location and Information: Smith Lake is located in Winston, Cullman and Walker Counties, Alabama. The diverse ecosystem of the Coosa River features mussels, crawfish, fish, birds, and snails, offering a rich feeding environment for fish of all species. Home; . (Contributed by Zeb Hogan), Ive been traveling to different locations around the world investigating stories of very large fish, he said by telephone Tuesday. This is when they are more likely to be nearer to the surface and more likely to bite. Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, white bass and striped bass at Smith Lake in Alabama. Vernon. Cody Mullenix of Howe Texas caught the fish on January 16th, 2004 which became known as Splash while fishing at the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge on Lake Texoma. Casting these baits into the mouths of channels, cuts, and even near the dam itself is a surefire way to attract the attention of a hungry catfish. Theres plenty of spots to go for a peaceful swim, or if you want to get the adrenaline pumping, popular cliff jumping spots into the lake are Indian head jump (30 ft) and Castle Rock (4050 ft.). In cool weather months, its not uncommon for anglers to fish for seven or eight hours to get only four or five bitesits not usually a fast, hot bite. Elvira is known for her creative approach to cuisine, and her passion for teaching others about the culinary arts. This photo was taken by Ed Mashburn. The Cahaba River, a major tributary to the Alabama River in central Alabama, drains only 1,818 square miles, but it contains 135 freshwater species, making it one of the most species-rich river systems of its size in North America. Amenities. If its on the menu, thats either the Silver Seatrout or the Sand Seatrout (often called White Trout), with thick, white filets and a taste similar to any freshwater Trout. Fish must be weighed on certified scales. I love that were just an hour away from Birmingham on the Cullman side of the lake. Further into the creeks, angular should target structure with a deep cork or work the cut or channel mouths with bottom rigs baited with small live crappie, shad, or crawfish.

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