Catfishing – A Practical Guide by Simon Clarke

RRP £ 19.95, or £ 15.96 from The Crowood Press

Specification/Description
  • Foreword by John Wilson
  • Hardback
  • Published by the Crowood Press
  • 179 pages
  • 150 colour photographs, 30 diagrams
  • ISBN: 978 1 84797 001 5

website: The Crowood Press

Publisher’s Overview

Interest in catfishing has grown significantly during the last twenty years and the opportunities to catch this remarkable and fascinating, if unpredictable, species have increased greatly, both in the UK and elsewhere. The increase in the popularity of catfishing is not surprising as catfish can grow to enormous sizes and they certainly justify their reputation as probably the hardest-fighting fish most anglers will ever encounter.

If you are interested in taking up the challenge of catfishing, or are already involved in the sport and want to improve your methods and catches, then this is the book for you. Written by a highly respected, specialist catfish angler, Catfishing – A Practical Guide provides you with all the information you will need.

Topics covered:
– Considers watercraft and where to find catfish in the UK in different weather conditions and seasons
– Discusses all the available baits and baiting up
– Meticulously analyses tackle, rigs and methods, including using static baits, livebaits and lures
– Demonstrates how to land, handle, weigh and safely retain catfish of all sizes
– Covers catfishing in Europe, Africa, Asia and elsewhere
– Includes a definitive list of UK catfish waters.

verdict

A very comprehensive and in-depth book on the subject, and, for UK anglers in particular, probably the best one ever written on the species.

It’s no wonder that catfish fishing has become more popular over the years, as there is no better fish in fresh water that can bend your rod quite like a cat. Apologies in advance to anyone of a sensitive nature, but the very first big catfish I ever saw caught fought with such savagery the angler literally soiled himself!

The book covers the history of cats, the tackle and bait needed, and all the rigs and methods you are ever likely to use. It also discusses how to land, handle and care for the fish.

I was pleased to read that there was no over-emphasis on catfishing in Spain and elsewhere overseas, although the popular Spanish Ebro is well covered.

The author, Simon Clarke, is a well versed catfish angler and in this book he doesn’t miss a trick. Whether you’re just starting your catfishing adventure, or are a well seasoned catfish angler, this book is well worth a read.

rating: 9.5/10

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