Hillbilly Hut

Hooking a catfish can be easier than most other fish. The first thing you want to do when you see the top of your pole tap down is to take it easy, giving your catfish time to get the bait in its mouth. If you are using a circle hook (highly suggested), you don't necessarily have to yank the rod back hard. Just a gentle pull should give you the desired result, as long as he has taken it. This method will likely not yield the same result when using standard hooks. With a circle hook, once the catfish takes the bait, clamps down and starts to move the bait in his mouth, the natural curve of the circle should slip right into the side of his cheek. I would suggest picking up some of these bad boy hooks - Matzuo Sickle Hook Assortments Catfish Hooks (66 pcs.)