catfish

i am going to fish a lake in essex called sloughhouse. any information on bait tackle and methods will be most helpfull

James

You can catch Cat's on just about anything. However the most popular baits are Liver, Squid, Deadfish, Boillies etc.

I would suggest that if you are targetting Pussies you'll need a strong rod 2.5lb test curve min and at least 15lb line. Strong hooks in the large sizes and a very good hook length. May I suggest either Amnesia in about 20lb B.S or Krystons Quicksilver in about 25-35lb BS.

Apart from that is a matter of finding them in a feedng mood. They can be very difficult. One piece of advice that you should take on board is that cats will drop a bait if they feel a resistance, hence most margin fishing is done by freelining. Ohterwise light ledgers with low resistance run rings.

You should also think about joining the CCG. Loads of good info available from this group.

Rgds

RAY THANKS FOR THE REPLY TACKLEWISE I SEEM OK .IM A BIT CONFUSED WHEN TO HIT THE RUN WHEN USING LIVEBAIT AND DEADBAIT .DO YOU STRIKE STRAIGHT AWAY OR DO YOU WAIT FOR IT TO TURN THE BAIT LIKE A PIKE

I have never fished Sloughhouse so I can not be specific.I agree with what has been wrote allready.Dont worry about resistance if you are live baiting I always use a semi fixed lead with a poly ball rig.This is best used with a 4"-5" tench or carp live bait tail hooked.I do not delay the strike with lives or deads for Cats.I do how ever wind down into a Cat run,Pike style as opposed to striking.