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Late Summer Means Catfish Are On the Move—Here’s Where to Find Them

From bait choice to bite timing, here’s how to make the most of this season.

July 16, 2025

As summer starts to wind down and the water temps peak, catfish behavior changes—and smart anglers change with it. Whether you're fishing rivers, reservoirs, or small lakes, late summer offers a golden window to hook into some heavyweight cats. From adjusting your bait selection to finding the right water depth, now's the time to rethink your catfishing strategy. In this guide, we break down proven tips and tactics for catching more catfish during late summer’s final stretch.

Different Types of Catfish: Species Identification Guide

There are about 3000 different species of catfish globally, with extremely stunning looks and fascinating personalities. Check out this fisherman's guide to all the different species and types of catfish. You'll know exactly what kind of catfish you caught the next time you go fishing.

Feature

Late Summer Catfishing Tips

Every summer, as the heat ramps up, I notice catfish anglers across the U.S. running into the same issues and asking the same questions. Plenty of people have a hard time finding catfish, landing the kind they really want, or just catching them on a regular basis. And then there are those chasing the big ones, the trophy cats, who end up empty-handed and fed up.

The Big Catch

Here they are—your catches, your stories, your proud moments on the water.
Submitted by you, shared by us. From record-setting lunkers to the ones that got away (but you got the photo!), every fish tells a tale. Big or small, it’s not just about the catch—it’s about the memory, the company, and the thrill of the fight. Thanks for letting us be part of your fishing story.

Brooke landed a beauty and made it look easy 🎣

Colby nailed this flats snapper on the fly under perfect skies 🎣

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About Us

At Fishmasters, we live for the tug on the line, the splash of the catch, and the stories told around the campfire. Whether you're casting off a backcountry dock, chasing trophies offshore, or just getting your feet wet, we're your go-to source for fishing tips, gear guides, and destination deep-dives. We blend real-world know-how with a passion for the great outdoors—because fishing isn’t just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. Let’s make every cast count.