The basic bobber rig is arguably the most widely used by anglers. Also called a fishing floater, it is a valuable tool suitable for all varieties of fish.
Catfishing with bobbers is undoubtedly no exception. The bobber rig is helpful in various ways, and beginner anglers like its ease of use and capacity to lure fish.
Whether you are fishing in a river or lake, situated at the bank, the shore, or on a boat, a basic bobber rig is a classic fishing tool. (Read The 7 Best Fishing Spots on Earth)
Do You Use A Bobber When Catching Catfish?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes. The slip bobber rig, in particular, is a favorite catfish rig for many sporting anglers. It is beneficial for different varieties of catfish.
When thinking of bobbers, I often conjure images of someone fishing on a lazy afternoon by the bank, with a conspicuous plastic bobber floating on the surface.
Fixed Bobber VS Slip Bobbers
Anglers use two basic bobber types: slip or fixed. The latter attaches firmly to the fish line, typically with spring-loaded pegs, hooks, or other devices.
They are ideal for fishing waters that are shallower in-depth, usually no deeper than your rod length.
The slip bobber rig, as the name implies, is adjustable for depth. They are also more sensitive than the round fixed bobbers. Furthermore, they are much easier to cast.
I also can use them at varying depths since they are adjustable for either deep or shallow waters.
Selecting and Setting Up Your Catfish Bobber Rig
When you purchase your bobbers, I can tell you that expensive models do not always mean better. I have purchased some very inexpensive ones that worked as well as or better than their pricier counterparts.
There are four qualities that I look for when I select a bobber. They must be lightweight, and they need to have a streamlined shape. They also need to be sensitive, and I am very partial to inexpensive models.
Another thing to consider is a bobber floating above the bait but will not submerge from its weight. It should also be small enough so the fish you lure can pull the float under without much resistance. It is wise to have a variety on hand for different fishing conditions and rigs.
Bobber Stops
Bobber stops are essential when it comes to the rig setup. This is what allows you to adjust the depth. The bobber stop is placed on the fishing line before the float, and then the small bead follows.
Hooks and Sinkers
If you want to optimize how to use bobbers, you will also need to get the appropriate hooks and sinkers. It is essential to combine hook sizes with the tackle you use and the fish you want to lure. Small is better suited for small fish, and bigger hooks for bigger fish. (Find the Best Catfish Fishing Hooks)
You need not be a hook expert. Check the labels of prepackaged hooks that will normally indicate what fish they will catch. Hooks meant for catfish are labeled as such.
Sinkers are simply weights usually made of lead. They come in many sizes and shapes, and their weight submerges a bait to the fish’s level. Conventional angler wisdom is to stick with the smallest sizes. I have found that sinkers weighing less appear more natural and sensitive. There are fixed and sliding sinkers.
Using Your Rig
Once you have your slip float or bobber, bobber stops bead, a hook, and a split shot for the terminal end. You are all set to make the rig.
Slip the line end through the bobber stop tube and slide the tube up the line a few feet. Now slide the stopper knot off the tube, pulling both ends of the string to tighten the knot, so it stays in place. Would you please get rid of the tube simply by sliding it off the end of the line?
Now string the line end through the bead and then through the slip bobber. Hold the line end up so you can tie something onto the end. Finally, tie on your hook. Set your desired depth by sliding the stopper knot. Pull the tag ends so the knot gets snug and trim both fairly close to the knot. (Read How to Go Fishing with Kids and Have Fun)
Attach a sinker approximately 6 inches to a foot above the hook. This will ensure that your bait or lure stays down in the water. The moving bobber will let you know when fish are biting because it will “bob” up and down in the water as fish take the bait.
That is it, and you are good to go. An added gadget you might also want to consider is a fish finder. Some of the best portable fish finder models will set you back by under $100. Others can cost much more than that.
How to Use a Portable Fish Finder
These are straightforward to use. Many of them will pair with your smartphone. Turn on the scanner and throw the fishing line into the water with the transducer to submerge. The screen will show fish if they are there.
This device can be used anywhere you fish. Rivers, lakes, the ocean, or even streams. I have had excellent results using one of these gadgets. They take the guessing game of where to lower your lure out of the equation.
Sportfishing is certainly one of the great American pastimes. If you have never tried it, it should be on your bucket list.
