[musky_hunter13]

I have always used cut-bait for catfish when pond fishing and have caught bullheads as well as both big and small channel cats (4-12 lbs). However, I would be interested to try using dip baits, but I have one setback. I've heard that artificial baits only catch smaller catfish. Is this true?

[bass1388]

In my experience, yes dip baits frequently produce smaller fish on average. I prefer cut bait due to the fact that it lasts a lot longer and doesn't need as much attention i.e. frequent rebaiting. Most of the time when fishing cut bait, I use a combination of fresh bluegills/drum/carp or minnows if I can catch any from the body of water I'm fishing.

[UglyStick]

Try hot dogs instead. Catches all sizes of cats, it's cheaper, and cleaner for pond waters.
Incidental catches of bass and big carp can happen too.

[musky_hunter13]

Thanks for the feedback!! I think I will try both hot dogs and cut bait next time I go out! It'll be interesting to see the results.

[Shawn]

I wouldn't necessarily say that dip baits catch smaller cats. I've seen some relatively small channel cats even eat live bluegills. Location is probably more of a factor, as I've gotten some pretty nice channel cats on dip baits too.

If you're trying for a bigger channel cat, try live baits like creek chubs, suckers, or small bluegill. The chubs and suckers make great cut bait too.

[team danjer]

A little hot dog wisdom.... Early in the season try corn king brand. They're cheap and they don't float. After weeds start to form switch to Ball Park Franks and put your split shot as far away as you want them to float above the bottom. Yes Ball Parks float and can help keep you out of the weeds. just my $.02.

[ThatBoat]

UglyStick wrote:

Try hot dogs instead. Catches all sizes of cats, it's cheaper, and cleaner for pond waters.
Incidental catches of bass and big carp can happen too.

I had to try using hot dogs and they work , just not for cats on this trip
It was looking at my fingers like they were hot dogs when I cut the line

[TyeeII]

Haha! You never know what you'll get!! Great picture!

[sgtski]

ThatBoat wrote:

UglyStick wrote:

Try hot dogs instead. Catches all sizes of cats, it's cheaper, and cleaner for pond waters.
Incidental catches of bass and big carp can happen too.

I had to try using hot dogs and they work , just not for cats on this trip
It was looking at my fingers like they were hot dogs when I cut the line

Dang look at that snapper......vicious looking jaws....kool pic