Channel Catfish in the Snow - March 19, 2005 I have to admit, normally I'm not too excited to hit the open water but this winter has been a little different. For the most part, icefishing has been pretty tough across the state with light biting fish being the name of the game. I've fished pretty hard since mid-December criss-crossing the state fishing with old friends, new friends, tournament fishing the I.C.E. Series & Ultimate Panfish League, and attending some Fishing Minnesota Get-Togethers. But unlike years past, I think my short rods have been put away for the season. I'm not going to make that late March run up to Upper Red for a chance at a good crappie bite, and my tip-up bucket is put away as well. No trophy pikin' for me on Lake of the Woods this winter either. Lake Mille Lacs perch and crappies are off the menu as well. Instead, I went catfishing today!! And did I have a blast!! We're very fortunate in the Twin Cities to have a few spots on the Mississippi River where the channel cat action turns on very early in the spring. How early? Well today is March 19 and we had steady action most of the afternoon. Alot of folks are still heading north chasing the ice but not this guy.

I joined Fisher "That Guy" Dave, Brian "I Da Man" Klawitter, Manny "Blacksportsman" and his son Marcus on the banks of the Mighty Miss and held a channel catfishing clinic! I don't think anyone was counting but there were easily over 30 channel cats caught ranging from 2-11 pounds. I just happened to hold the hot rod today with a big 11 pounder taking my bait. These guys are my catfishing "crew", and we've spent countless hours over the last year fishing these whiskered fish. Not only are they my catfishing buddies but these guys are also my catfishing mentors. Every minute I spend on the water or shore with them is an education. And I have to give credit where credit is due, they know their stuff and have taught me well. These early season channel cats are definitely providing a nice transition, filling the gap from ice fishing until the flathead cats go on the feed. As you can tell, there is a hefty layer of snow on the shore and the flatties will not start biting until the water temp is in the low 50s. All I can say is if you are sitting on the couch right now pouting about not being able to fish, consider chasing some catfish. Pound for pound, they fight better and harder than any other fish I've caught in the state of Minnesota. They are very abundant and techniques used to catch them are very simple as well. Please set aside your previous stereotypes and go have some fun catching fish!

Here's a great shot of the "Urban Cattin' Crew" with a triple header for the day!