Catfish are some of the most rewarding freshwater species to chase, not just for their size and strength, but also for their year-round activity. While you can catch them in any season, there are certain months where your odds – especially for big fish – go way up. Whether you’re after blues, channels, or flatheads, the calendar can make all the difference in how successful your trip turns out. Let’s dive into the four months that consistently produce the most action and the biggest fish, and why they’re worth marking on your fishing calendar.
1. April: The All-Around Best Month
April is one of the best times of the year to catch catfish, not just for quantity but also for variety. As winter fades and water temperatures begin to climb, the entire food chain wakes up. Baitfish like shad and crappie are on the move, triggering increased feeding activity from predator species – including catfish.
This pre-spawn period is particularly exciting because catfish start migrating toward their eventual spawning grounds. You’ll find them in shallower waters, chasing baitfish in warming zones. Anchoring down near these areas can be incredibly productive. Even if you’re bank fishing, you have a strong chance of hooking into solid channel cats and the occasional flathead. Just keep in mind that spring weather is unpredictable. One day can be warm and sunny, the next cold and windy. Flexibility is key.
2. December: Cold Water, Giant Fish
It may surprise some anglers, but December is an excellent month for trophy blue catfish. Despite the cold, this time of year often produces some of the biggest fish of the entire season. The trick is persistence. You might not catch a lot, but the ones you do catch are likely to be monsters.
If you’re fishing reservoirs, the potential for big blues skyrockets. Anchoring is often the most effective method, though slow trolling can still produce results. Sonar plays a big role – finding fish and parking above them with a quality presentation is half the battle. Patience is the name of the game. And if you’re fishing from the bank, time works in your favor. Stick with it, and you might be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime fish.
3. May: Peak Activity Before the Crowds
May is a great transitional month. Water temperatures are ideal, baitfish are spawning, and catfish are feeding aggressively ahead of their own spawn. The activity level is high across the board. Early mornings and evenings tend to be particularly productive, especially in areas with decent structure or baitfish movement.
The downside? By the last week of May, things can start to get a little noisy. Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and lakes fill with recreational boaters, water skiers, and swimmers. That commotion can push fish to deeper or less accessible areas. Also, depending on your location, the spawn may start creeping in at the end of the month, slowing the bite. But for the majority of May, the fishing is hot and the weather is comfortable.
4. September: Late Summer Gold
September might not get the same attention as spring or midsummer, but it’s a hidden gem – especially for flathead catfish. With the worst of the heat behind and water temperatures gradually cooling, all three major species of catfish remain active. The metabolism of the fish is still high, meaning they’re hungry and moving.
Flatheads, in particular, shine this month. They’re fattening up before going mostly dormant in the colder months, and if you find one, there’s a good chance there are more nearby. Fish are generally more spread out in September, making it easier for both boat and bank anglers to find success. It’s a month of calm, productive fishing without the chaos of the summer crowds.
Understanding Catfish Behavior Year-Round
While these four months offer prime opportunities, catfish don’t ever truly stop feeding. Even in the coldest days of winter or the peak of summer heat, they’re still catchable – just not always in high numbers or easy-to-access spots. Their activity is tied to water temperature, moon phases, daylight cycles, and the availability of food. The more time you spend learning these patterns in your local waters, the better your chances of success.
Water Temperature Is Everything
Catfish are highly responsive to water temperature. Spring and fall bring ideal temps for aggressive feeding, while summer can push them deeper or into cover. In winter, they slow down, but they don’t shut down entirely. Understanding how water temperature drives catfish behavior is key. For example, in April and May, rising temperatures pull them into the shallows, while in December, cooler temps concentrate them in predictable deeper areas.
Don’t Ignore the Spawn
The catfish spawn – typically happening in June depending on your location – can throw a wrench into your plans. Catfish focus more on reproduction than feeding during this time, and it can lead to slow days. That’s why May is such a strong month – just ahead of the spawn, fish are bulking up and feeding heavily. Learning when the spawn occurs in your region can help you plan trips to avoid the inevitable slump.
Solitude Matters More Than You Think
One big benefit of fishing in April and December is the lack of boat traffic. Springtime might bring out the bass anglers, but April still offers a lot of quiet. December, on the other hand, is nearly deserted. Having the water to yourself – especially on big reservoirs – can dramatically improve your results. Less noise, less pressure, and fewer competitors on prime spots give you a serious edge.
Bank Anglers Can Still Clean Up
Some anglers think trophy catfishing is reserved for boaters, but that’s not entirely true – especially in April and December. Shallow flats near creek mouths or drop-offs are perfect places to set up if you don’t have a boat. In winter, bank anglers often benefit from the need to wait fish out, as trophy blues tend to feed in waves. During April, mobility and changing locations can make a difference, but bank access to pre-spawn zones gives shore-bound anglers a real shot.
Timing Makes the Difference
You can catch catfish 12 months a year, but there’s no denying that certain windows just produce better results. April, May, September, and December all offer something special – whether it’s numbers, trophy potential, or peace and quiet on the water. The trick is matching your tactics to the season, learning your local waters, and staying persistent. So if you’re planning your next big trip or just looking to maximize a free weekend, consider circling one of these months on your calendar. The fish – and the memories – are waiting.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.