Catfish Channel catfish or cats are a native species to the eastern plains of Colorado. They have been stocked in many Colorado lakes and rivers over the years. Cats are good eating fish and sought after by...
Channel catfish or cats are a native species to the eastern plains of Colorado. They have been stocked in many Colorado lakes and rivers over the years. Cats are good eating fish and sought after by many. Cats will spawn as the water warms to the 70 degree mark during the summer. Cats will primarily feed at night on the bottom of the lake but they can also feed mid-level or even on the surface. Cats will feed on insects, crayfish and fish. While most fishermen stick to the traditional bait-on-bottom approach, do not be afraid to go after these fish with fly rods as they are active feeders that may chase well presented crayfish or baitfish imitations. Go ahead and pull up your lawn chair, grab a cooler of drinks and sit next to your favorite pond and spend the evening fishing for cats...and while you're at it throw a fly or two on a sinking line and see what you get!
Qualifying length for a Colorado Master Angler Award for Channel Cats is 30 inches, Blue Cats is 30 inches, and Black Bullhead is 14 inches.
Colorado Released Fish Record for Channel Cat is 38"
Colorado Released Fish Record for Blue Cat is 30"
From the Colorado DOW: Channel cats are native to eastern Colorado and have been stocked in warmer rivers and reservoirs throughout the state. These fish are easily identified by their barbels (whiskers), forked tail and sporadic black spotting. Night fishing with live bait, chicken innards, flavored dough balls, or any other smelly concoction provides the best angling success. Cats larger than 30 pounds have been caught in Colorado, and for those willing to take the effort, they make a tasty dinner.
