%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F1623%2Fimages%2Fno_limmit_png.png&w=1200&q=100)
Caught a Channel Catfish in Lake Pleasant
Channel Catfish Fishing in Lake Pleasant
5.0
18 Reviews
- 5
100% - 4
0% - 30%
- 20%
- 10%
%2F%2Fusers%2F36daabc6-6b8c-4db3-8b1c-ff7eaff0c07f%2Fimages%2Fchannel-catfish-scorpion-bay-fishing-11768.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Channel Catfish (Ictalurus Punctatus) is a popular gamefish found throughout Lake Pleasant. These whiskered predators typically range from 15-25 inches in length and weigh between 2-4 pounds, though larger specimens are occasionally caught. - Channel Catfish prefer habitats with structure like river bends, submerged logs, and rocky areas. - They're most active during evening and night hours, especially in warmer months. - Their barbels (whiskers) contain taste receptors that help them locate food in murky water.
Guided Fishing Trip by Guide Glenn Diaz in August
Meet your Guide Glenn Diaz
- Get your fill of Trophy Bites in Arizona!
Summary
Experienced an incredible evening of fishing on Lake Pleasant with guide Glenn Diaz this Saturday June. We set out from Scorpion Bay Grill as the sun began to dip, enjoying perfect clear conditions on the water. Using a mix of trolling, bottom fishing, and crankbait casting techniques, we successfully targeted Channel Catfish in the 13-inch range. Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers some of the best catfish fishing in Morristown, AZ, with consistent action during the warmer months. Whether you're an experienced angler or just looking to enjoy a peaceful evening on the water, this guided fishing trip provides all the gear and expertise you need for a successful outing. The lake's diverse fish population makes it an ideal spot for a variety of fishing techniques year-round.
Fishing Charter with Glenn Diaz – Rates & Booking
Guide Glenn Diaz of No Limit Fishing on Saturday June offers this popular 5-hour guided fishing adventure on Lake Pleasant. This trip accommodates up to 2 guests and includes all the necessary fishing gear, bait, and expert guidance to maximize your chances of landing catfish and other species. Glenn's extensive knowledge of Lake Pleasant ensures you'll visit the most productive fishing spots based on current conditions. The evening trips are particularly effective, allowing you to fish during cooler hours when catfish become more active.
No Limit Fishing provides a top-rated experience with consistent 5-star reviews from satisfied clients like Scott, who said: "1st time using a fishing guide (Normally I'm a do it yourself when it comes to fishing) Glenn with No Limits Fishing knows what he is doing. We had a great experience and will be booking another trip in the near future. I would definitely recommend No Limits Fishing for your next adventure!"
Highlights of Guided Fishing in Lake Pleasant – Bass, Striped Bass & Catfish Adventure | Shared- 5 Hour Trip (AM/PM)
This Lake Pleasant fishing trip offers non-stop action throughout your 5-hour adventure. Setting out from Scorpion Bay Grill, you'll target multiple species including Channel Catfish, White Catfish, and various bass species. The trip features a variety of fishing techniques including trolling, bottom fishing, and crankbait casting to maximize your chances of success.
Lake Pleasant is known for its healthy catfish population, with most catches averaging around 13 inches. These fish provide an exciting fight and are particularly active during evening hours. The beautiful surroundings of Lake Pleasant Regional Park add to the experience, offering scenic views and peaceful water conditions perfect for a productive fishing outing.
Local Species Insights: Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish thrive in Lake Pleasant's diverse underwater structure. These bottom-dwellers prefer areas with deeper holes, submerged logs, and rocky outcroppings where they can ambush prey. During summer months in Morristown, evening fishing proves most productive as catfish become more active in cooler water temperatures.
For the best success targeting these whiskered predators, use cut bait, chicken liver, or prepared stink baits fished near the bottom. Patience is key when catfishing - once your bait is in position, give these sensory hunters time to locate it using their barbels (whiskers). The fight of a Channel Catfish is surprisingly strong, making each hook-up an exciting experience even with modest-sized 13-inch specimens.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
When booking with No Limit Fishing, you'll meet at Scorpion Bay Grill at Lake Pleasant. The charter accommodates up to 2 guests comfortably on a well-equipped fishing boat with all necessary safety gear. Morning trips typically begin around sunrise, while evening trips start several hours before sunset to maximize prime fishing time.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Bring along water, snacks, and a camera to document your catches. All fishing gear and bait are provided, though you're welcome to bring favorite lures if you prefer. The 5-hour trip structure gives you ample time to try different fishing spots and techniques while enjoying Lake Pleasant's beautiful surroundings.
Fishing in Lake Pleasant: Channel Catfish
The Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) belongs to the Ictaluridae family within the order Siluriformes. Distinguished by their forked tail, whisker-like barbels, and sleek bodies, these popular gamefish provide exciting action for anglers visiting Lake Pleasant. In Morristown waters this June, Channel Catfish become increasingly active as water temperatures rise, making evening trips particularly productive.
Channel Catfish Overview
Channel Catfish are one of North America's most popular freshwater gamefish, prized for both their fighting ability and table qualities. They feature a streamlined body with a deeply forked tail (distinguishing them from other catfish species), and the characteristic whisker-like barbels that give catfish their name. These sensory organs help them locate food in murky or dark conditions.
Channel Catfish Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish thrive in diverse environments including lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and ponds. In Lake Pleasant, they tend to favor areas with structure - submerged logs, rock piles, creek channels, and deeper holes. They generally prefer moderate current and can be found at various depths depending on water temperature and time of day.
Channel Catfish Size and Weight
Typical Channel Catfish in Lake Pleasant range from 15 to 25 inches in length, weighing between 2 and 4 pounds. However, the lake holds potential for larger specimens, with trophy-sized fish exceeding 10 pounds occasionally caught by persistent anglers.
Channel Catfish Diet and Behavior
Channel Catfish are opportunistic feeders with an omnivorous diet that includes small fish, crustaceans, aquatic insects, plant matter, and even carrion. They primarily feed using their acute sense of smell and taste receptors located in their barbels. They tend to be more active during evening and night hours, especially during summer months when daytime temperatures are high.
Channel Catfish Spawning Season
In Lake Pleasant, Channel Catfish typically spawn when water temperatures reach 75-80°F, usually from late spring through early summer. Males build and guard nests in secluded areas with structure like undercut banks, hollow logs, or rock crevices. During spawning season, they become more territorial and aggressive, which can affect feeding patterns.
Channel Catfish Fishing Techniques
For Lake Pleasant catfish, bottom fishing with bait is the most effective approach. Popular baits include chicken liver, cut bait (especially bluegill or shad), prepared stink baits, and nightcrawlers. Fish these offerings near structure using a simple slip-sinker rig. In June, anglers around Morristown find success fishing deeper water during day hours and moving shallower in evenings when catfish become more active. Patience is key - allow time for catfish to detect your bait through their sensory barbels before setting the hook.
Channel Catfish Is It Good to Eat?
Channel Catfish are excellent table fare with firm, white flesh that has a mild, sweet flavor. Unlike larger catfish species, they rarely develop a muddy taste. They're best prepared by filleting and removing the skin, which eliminates any potential off-flavors. Popular cooking methods include breading and frying, grilling, or baking. Nutritionally, they're a good source of lean protein and contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
Channel Catfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Channel Catfish in Lake Pleasant?
A: The most effective baits for Lake Pleasant Channel Catfish are chicken liver, cut bait (especially bluegill or shad), prepared stink baits, and nightcrawlers. Fresh bait typically outperforms artificial options when targeting catfish.
Q: Where can I find Channel Catfish near Morristown?
A: Lake Pleasant offers excellent catfishing opportunities near Morristown. Focus on areas with structure like submerged trees, rocky points, channel edges, and deeper holes. The area around Scorpion Bay is particularly productive, especially during evening hours.
Q: Is Channel Catfish good to eat?
A: Yes, Channel Catfish are considered excellent eating with mild, sweet-flavored white meat. They're best when properly cleaned by removing the skin and any dark red meat (lateral line). Smaller to medium-sized fish typically taste better than larger specimens.
Q: When is the best time to catch Channel Catfish?
A: Channel Catfish bite year-round, but evening and night fishing produces best results, especially during summer months. In Lake Pleasant, the period from late spring through early fall offers peak catfish action, with June being particularly productive as water temperatures warm.
Q: How deep should I fish for Channel Catfish in Lake Pleasant?
A: During summer days, target depths of 15-30 feet near structure. As evening approaches, catfish often move shallower (5-15 feet) to feed. Adjust your fishing depth based on water temperature and time of day.
Q: What size hook works best for Channel Catfish?
A: Medium-sized hooks work best - typically 2/0 to 4/0 circle hooks or octopus hooks. Circle hooks are preferred as they tend to hook catfish in the corner of the mouth, making catch-and-release easier if desired.
