Topwater fishing for Japanese catfish
ナマズのトップウォーター
Work a floating lure along quiet river margins. A splash is not yet a hook-up: keep retrieving until you feel the fish load the rod, then make a controlled hook-set.
Tackle and preparation
A catfish-rated rod and matching reel, suitably strong braid and leader, a surface lure, landing net and long pliers. Check bank access before dark.
On the water
- Inspect the bank and landing point in daylight.
- Cast a short distance along the margin and retrieve slowly enough to keep the lure working.
- Wait for weight rather than striking at the first splash.
- Keep the fish clear of cover and use a wet net and pliers for release.
