Springtime for River Channel Cats

With these warm temperatures that we have had lately, it won't be too long before the ice is off the water.  As a general rule, rivers are clear of ice before lakes because of the running water and current. 

There are a few rivers (although not many) around the Metro area for the ambitious angler.  The Mississippi and the St. Croix offer a lot of opportunities - but I have never fished them.  The only river that I really fish around here is the North Forkof the Crow out in Rockford.  The Crow River is relatively small but decent enough.  I wouldn't recommend taking out a boat of medium or large size, but canoes and small alumacrafts would be fine.  There is a small ramp at Riverside Park in Rockford, but is not suitable for large boats. 

The Crow River (North Fork) has a high percentage of roughfish such as carp, suckers, and redhorse.  The most prevalent gamefish are channel catfish, actually being the second most abundant fish behind redhorse.  Although the catfish are smaller in the Crow than in the Minnesota, abundance is higher.  There are also significant populations of smallmouth bass, walleye, and pike in the river.  Bank angling is available at bridge crossings and at many Wright County Parks. 

I like the Crow because it offers excellent opportunities for channel catfish and smallmouth fishing, something that is different than chasing largemouths and pike across lakes.  This time of year, cats are one of the few fish that are legally allowed to be taken.

Fishing for early spring catfish in the Crow is all about location.  This time of year, there are vast amounts of dead baitfish that died during the winter.  This plentiful food source is washed into wide river bends and large pools.  Look for calmer, wider water.  The catfish congregate around this food source and cherry-pick the best meals.  The catfish are also in the shallower waters because temperatures are rising and they are preparing to spawn.  Shallow, warm areas of the river are the place to be.  If possible, fish the downwind side of the river as well.  The wind blows the warm water and the dead baitfish into this "feeding area".  Look for the warmest possible area - possibly next to a feeder stream that carries warm water into the river.  Depths from one to four feet should work best.  If you plan to eat your catfish, avoid fish over sixteen inches in the Crow to avoid flesh contaminants.

There will be no shortage of dead baitfish for the catfish to choose from - so make them choose yours.  Use a dead minnow such as shad or sardines.  Now, smellier is better.  You could use stink baits such as cheese and gizzards, or you can use a variety of commercial baits.  Good luck.

Final note... although I did see a few people on Lake Sarah, I DO NOT recommend going out on the ice right now.  Use caution and good sense.  The ice fishing season is basically over around here.