CATFISH WITH THE BLASTER SHAD
One of my goals during the last month I spent in France was to catch some river pike on the Blaster Shad. I did catch pike. But another species turned to be just as intrigued by the slow rolling action of the Blaster Shad. They especially seemed to like the fire tiger color. Wels Catfish are basically color blind and possibly more drawn to the vibration a lure emits (the Blaster Shad does plenty), but still they are able to perceive contrasts. Probably this is why I got so many aggressive attacks on this particular color.
In the river I fish, the average size of catfish is medium and fish over 1,70 are rare. For this reason, heavy pike fishing rods are sufficient and allow for comfortable fishing. I pair my rod with a bait caster reel filled with 40lb Fiiish Perfect Link braid and a 0,90mm fluorocarbon leader. The Blaster Shad and the attached VMC treble hook are strong, and with medium sized fish I am sure they will not let you down. If however you are fishing in bigger rivers like the Rhone, Seine or Loire and the size of the fish you can expect exceeds 1,80, you should definitely step up your gear. Fishing with tuna rods and reels like some of my friends do seems adequate then.
For the animation of the lure, a steady retrieve is all it takes. I have caught catfish in deeper, slower flowing water during the day, but in the afternoon and at night they come in shallower areas to hunt. The flexible weight system of the Blaster Shad allows you to quickly change the weight of the lure and adapt to any situation you will face.
Tight lines
Antonius
