Steve Douglas The Catfish Dude I just wanna say its nice to see someone, more like your everyday fisherman not covered in sponsors doing videos. Me and my wife love them. Keep them up. thanks!
Steve, you have no idea how much I just learned by watching this video....not to mention the countless others that you've taught by this one video. I watch and re-watch you and Kris Flores on a daily basis. Thank you for what you do!
I just bought me a set of monster rod holder Steve and you're right they're awesome very good product sturdy built never seen nothing as good as these good old-fashioned American ingenuity America craftsmanship at a good price you keep catching them and typing them I'll keep watching good luck
I can't thank you enough Steve, the fishing tips that I've gotten from you are the best information that I have ever got, 63 yrs. old and been cat fishing since I was 5, & a bamboo pole, retired truck driver & doing more fishing on shore & off in a 12ft. flat bottom with a friend of mine, a lot of the info I pass on to one of my friends cause he doesn't have a internet, and he too has learned many things from what you have shown that I pass on to him, So because of your tips & advice we are catching more cat fish. Thank you for all you do to help us all in all.....
Great video, Steve! I've spooled 100's of reels with braid and all you need is a quarter-sized piece of tape(any tape except Scotch tape). The braid will never slip on the spool. Good fishing!
Steve, I think I have watch most all of your videos. I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for being so down to earth and seriously wanting to help the rest of is learn how to catfish.
Thanks for the video and the tips Steve. I use an ambassadeur and I really like it. I am more than willing to give the CatMaxx a try though as I use their poles sometimes and they've never failed me before.
Steve, I just wanted to take a minute as a newer subscriber to say Thank You for taking the time to do all that you do and not just for us fellow fisherman but for the sport it self. Life style sounds better then sport. ;) I am looking forward to all that you bring here for us and for all the insight and rekindling the things learned and forgotten about. Thank You Again God Bless Jim
+thebandittransam Bo How is the reel? I noticed they relaunched the reel and it looks very different from what Steve has. What's your thoughts on it so far?
On all my new cork grips and handles I apply U-40 cork seal, a great product to harden and seal cork from fish slime, and retains its feel in the hand and reduces discoloration.
Steve, this is another great video. I recently started fishing for blue cats on the James River in Virginia and had great results based on tips that I learned from your videos. We are consistently catching 40+ LB blue cats. Thanks a lot and keep it coming.
I love your attitude towards other manufacturer's, not putting them down (Abu) but pointing out you prefer your equipment. Refreshing and classy. Thanks for the water seal tip on the rod handles as well I'm def. going to be using that! Cheers!
I bought my first catmaxx reel in Cincinnati in 2002..sure did...I fished lake Cowan in Wilmington Ohio...I loved it....it was give to me for a birthday present by my wife...those be were my best fishing years..
@Mark Reeves Mark I drifted up to Ohio in 2001 and was just roaming the country east to west and found Wilmington and Clarksville just by roaming....lake Cowan was so much fun ...so I bought a pontoon boat and just fished everyday....I stayed 2 years and when I left and came back to Georgia I missed the north and was sad I left...I made many friends and learned a lot from them good people....I was actually headed to Montana but lake Cowan just got a hold on me...I love to fish and I took two years off work and just done exactly that....I'm 20 years older now and still fishing...
not sure if you already have but you should post a video about bank fishing a big river. I live about 15 minutes from the Mississippi river in Stl Missouri
Gabriel Liss i know this is late but i live in north county (jennings) always looking for a fishing buddy i am a guy (its my wifes account) ...hope to hear back from ya
Joe Zuzolo harder to find holes on bank thats why everybody wants a boat for the electronics to find the fish so it wont be a waste of time. i fish the sippi and cumberland Tn river
Hey Steve I want you to know keep up the exellent work I'm only 13 and I watch you videos and they are helping my struggle with catching fish thanks for posting these videos thanks a lot
hey steve, thanks for commenting back, sorry you been feeling bad , soon as skip jack come in i sure will be at markland dam srocking up on them , me an couple buddies are getting ready to head down towards madison to place called brooksburg, will keep you up dated on how their biting , keep the video's coming really enjoy them, get well buddy , thanks bill
I am an abu garcia man. Easy to work on am easy to upgrade. Just recently sold my first ever owed abu reel to a friend. Had it 10 years fished it every weekend . Never broke down once. All about what each guy prefers . Those new cat Maxx are looking good though. I love your vids steve. I check in daily for new vids. Tight lines bro.
I have not used the CatMaxx but am glad to know about them. I have always used the Abu Garcia 6500s. I figure it is just what you get used to. I'll be trying to get out this weekend since the ice is gone from Indiana and the water is about 48 degrees now. Of course we are expecting some snow tomorrow. I used to love that Alabama weather when I lived there. Great video Steve. If you get a chance, a good video about muscle beds would be appreciated.
Steve you doing these videos is a great thing. Showing ppl how much fun CPR can be and how to do everything right so fewer missed fish. Ive learned one thing from your videos TWC rods are the way to go. Hopefully this year I might see yea in Monsters on the Ohio!
Just bought a cat maxx spinning reel and a cat buster rod from bass pro today. Caught about 30 skipjack and mooneye yesterday. Can't wait to hit the river!
I bought a PB Catmaxx reel today and got it rigged with a Carolina rig. I’ve been using some Zebco spincasters. They work but I don’t know for how long. Friends were telling me to get the Abu Garcia but I figured if the catmaxx serves you well I was going with it. I caught my first flathead last fall and my first blue last weekend. I love your videos and I’m soaking up the tips . Thanks Steve.
Steve, Brett here from Washington State. I can't fish with as many poles as you, however I am testing presentations, depth, ect. I loved the video where you fished for cats around barges. I learned to focus my time around barges that have been sitting for awhile. (Apposed to barges frequently moving, Now I'm catching more fish. Thanks Brett
A older fellow told me the spool adjusting trick right after i started using ambassador 5000's 30 years ago,, Now i use the 7000 widespool's and the spool adjustment! Nice Video dude!!
Yay!! I've been waiting for this video!! Your tips and tricks are super helpful. You told me about the Cat Maxx reel a few weeks ago an I LOVE it!! Definitely a good recommendation to someone who doesn't want to go out and spend $150 on a Abu Garcia 6500 when all your buying is the name and not the product itself. Keep them coming Catfish King! =)
Steve, I always enjoy your videos. You seem to be a good guy shairing what you have learned. Something most guys dont do or have sold out to corporate sponsors. I have been stalled in my catfishing adventures. I have spent some time watching most all of your videos and have spent a lot of money on some gear this year (Lorance HDS7 touch & Motorguide Xi5 80) All looks a little strange mounted on my 1976 Polar Craft john boat. Anyway, I wanted to say thank you for sharing even when they are not paying you!!!
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment Jeff. I never judge a man by the rig he runs and the boat dont catch the fish LOL you made a good choice in the HDS7 and the Xi5 they should really help you locate and catch some monsters. Good luck this season
Hey Steve I'd like to see a detailed video on how you throw your front and back anchor to anchor up on fish on lakes and on the river. That would be awesome.
Nice set up. I got a Medium-Heavy Ugly Stik bait caster rod with a Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S 65000. I'm gonna try to get some video of it in action this summer.
Nice vid Steve. I appreciate the no nonsense approach. Biting the 50lb mono is a nice touch. :) Sometimes I see too much emphasis on the WOW factor in fishing videos and they forget the reason people are there to watch them.
Thanks,, I always like to leave my viewers with some take aways, rather than beating my chest and saying look at me and my big fish or self proclaiming pro status. I like to connect with folks and show them the real days on the water with the fish I catch whether they big or small. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment Darren
Great idea on the black tape. Easier than trying to tape the spool up before tying the line on. No bead between the sinker and swivel? I'm just using a cheap plastic Walmart jewelry bead, but even with that my braid gets a little worn behind the swivel. I often cut and retie the braid to my swivel when I see it getting a little wear. I'm probably going to start using a 1/4" nub of clear plastic tubing to cushion the sinker and swivel connection.
Ah new fishing poles. Bout makes ya a little giddy don't it. I have been curious about those catmaxx reels ever since I saw them in Bass Pro a few years ago. They looked like good reels but I already had several garcias so I didn't buy any. May have to get a couple any way after watching this. Can't never have to many fishin poles. Will definitely be looking into those rods though. Those are sweet. Thanks for another great vid sir.
Steve I dont know if i said this but I want to thank you for saying hi when you and Kris and the guy from cats and carp was out eating before or after the catfish conference couple years back
Thank you for the preview I've just recently moved to NC and started cat fishing. I got a Cat Maxx Reel last year because of one of your earlier video's. I love it also. Now I just need to get a rod and ill be set for this year. Can't wait to see more. Keep up the great Work!!
Enjoyed the video and I was thrilled to see your tackle box. Mine is very similar and I know I'm doing things right. I wanted to mention that if you tie your leader to the swivel first with a palomar knot, you can use the palomar knot to tie your main line. Listen to that, me telling the expert how to do things. Thanks for all the information.
If you are fishing like me, without a boat, would you still recommend the Carolina rig, from the bank, since I can't suspend it. If you do think another rig would be better, what would it be?
Pretty much everyone I know uses the Carolina rig, exclusively when fishing from the bank. The only other option I would suggest giving a try, and I know some guys just kill em using it, but give Cat Bobber a try, especially at night with live bait. I dont think the Santee-Cooper rig is ideal for us bank-bound catfisherman because the idea of the Santee-Cooper rig is for use while drifting or trolling really slow so it's not much use if you're using it from the bank unless you're 'bouncing' your bait downstream(which I just cant fo arou d where I fish because of the snags and rocks in the water, it's a guarantee that I'll end up losing my entire rig and bait when it gets hung up somewhere.) Though I do know if some areas guys that are really good at doing it can have awesome luck using the 'bouncing' technique. Just my .02
Thanks for sharing Steve ... Will have to check them out the next time I vist Bass Pro Shop. I also like the Ming Yang reels you showcased a while back.
Steve been watching ur videos for long time iv chased cat for lot of years as of yesterday I just purchased a TWC rod and new cat max reel cant wait to get them keep up good videos
no i dont because i use braided line and a bumper wouldn't really help as the knot slides up in the sinker and is not affected by it as it would if it was mono. I never have had an issue with breakage because of lack of sinker bumper. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment conrad.
Steve, this is good stuff. Based on a few of your comments, I like you come from a bass fishing background and am now wanting to do more catfishing and have learned a ton from your videos. A couple of technical questions. What size/ strength swivels do you suggest and what size/ style hooks? Thanks so much. Since leaving the tournament bass fishing world, I have taken up fly fishing, saltwater fishing, and just fishing for fun and am like a kid with new toys. After catching the saltwater fish, I have becoming addicted to catching fish that truly pull, tug, and fight. This catfishing looks awesome!
Bass Star I use a number 10 Mustad demon circle hook with a 200 lb test barrel swivels. you should try some big catfish they will get you hooked for sure. Thanks for stopping by to leave a comment. I hope you have a great season.
I bought a Shimano GX2 rod on sale at Walmart that's such a heavy action it's basically a broom stick. Always pay attention to how fast your rod tips are before you buy them. It's basically just for big swimbaits now unfortunately. I love the rods you use Steve, especially the cork handles.
I use a pair of Penn Peer #109 reels, w level wind for 30 years. Never a problem, except the pawl on level wind reels wears out. For monsters, I use an old Penn Squidder, non level wind #140. Caught sharks on it.
Sweet setup. I remember your video of you using a "Barbie" rod and reel and you landed that fish. Like most things, buy what you can afford and everything else will fall in place. I use vintage Garcia Mitchell 300's from the '60's and '70's with Shakespeare Catfish Ugly Stiks. It's old school and I like it. Will they stop a barge if I cast on it? No, but they will make those Detroit Diesel's bog down for a second...lol. The lightest tackle to get the job done=the biggest "rush."
I do fresh and salt water fishing being in san diego and use my off shore penn reels on intercoastal rods for cats. but the cat max seem pretty cheap and sturdy for price I might pick a couple up. good vid!! see if they have some on sale at the fred hall fishin show this weekend!! woot woot!!
Donjulios opinion doug dont care about my comment cuz im some young punk huh? well actually i fish everyday! and i love the wATER. im guess im feeling down because i enjoy his videos and would love to fish with him! good luck with the channel doug! im a good guy even though i look like some young punk ;(
Love your channel! Notice you latch your hooks into the bigger eyes on your rod. I've seen other videos where they say that is a big no-no because ("they" say) it will compromise the eye and slowly lacerate your line and ultimately-end up in a break while you're reeling in cat. Common sense tells you that the only sharpened part is the end of the hook. Your thoughts? I've done this for years and rarely have such a break.
+Elias Galvan i been doing it for years with no issues but im a guy who uses the heck out of my equipment hard. beating and banging around in the boat, i find some guys take gentle care of their equipment, i think its just a preference.
Hey Steve, great video enjoy watching it! Them are some nice reels you just got there. I saw them in the store last time was in bass pro shops. Them are some nice rods you just got too . I like its got stainless part on them not plastic that pole will last you along time. Where did you get them from ? Keep catching the biggins and keep the videos coming.
Wow, I have been looking at the Abu Garcia C7000 catfish reel and almost ordered one but decided to revisit this video and am glad I did; I can get the combo you featured here for the price of what I was going to pay for just that reel. Good stuff.
Everyone is certainly welcome to their own opinions, but I definitely disagree with Steve about the Abu Garcia's. I think they are without a doubt the finest, smoothest, toughest and most reliable reels money can buy. Especially the 7000 reels, those things are built(In Sweden, I might add) like tanks!! I hope you have great luck with the Catmaxx real and the TWC rods, I am planning on picking up at least one, hopefully 2, of the Catmaxx baitcasters like Steve uses and I'd also love to have a couple of those rods as well but I am happy with the 'Meat Hunter' rods that I can get for half the price of the TWC Catfish rods.
Hello Mr. Douglas. Hope your doing ok. I love all the videos and have probably watched them all about 10 times each already. I was curious cause I saw you had said before that the reason you don't use abu garcia ambassadeur reels is because your not to fond of them. Is there a more spacific reason you don't like them or use them? The ming yang reels are exact copies of the abu garcia ambassadeur reels and I see you use to use them but I don't see you using them anymore. I remember you had that brand new black mc500 ming yang in one video and I never saw it after that. Just curious if you had bad luck with abu and had them break on you all the time. I know alot of people have that problem with them. I know when I look at the catmaxx the first reel that comes to my mind that it looks kinda like is the shimano corvalus or cardiff. I know you have some shimano cardiff reels. How would you compare them to the catmaxx reel and the ming yang reels? Hope to hear back from you. Thank you
I find that kinda odd, personally as I find the Abu Ambassadors, well at least the C3, C4, 7000 and Rocket models to be the absolute cream of the crop as far as the old school round baitcasters go though Im sure some of the Shimano models that are similar are just as good if not better. I just havent had the opportunity to use any of the Shimanos. I've always liked the fact that most of the good Abu Ambassadors are made in Sweden, I am much happier paying that much money for a reel that ISN'T made in China, but that's just my opinion. I would really like to hear why Steve doesnt care for the Abu's. Plus, Ive seen OOOLLLLLD Ambassadors from the 60's-80's that are STILL going strong if they've been maintained and really taken care of. I find that extremely impressive and a testament to their build and parts quality and reliability. You don't see many other reel models or companies gear that is still going strong after literal decades of faithful service.
By the way, I know that ALL the Cabela's and BPS reels are made by someone else and just rebadged with a Cabela's or BPS logo and model number. I think that back in the day the Catmaxx baitcasters were made by Quantum. I don't know if they still are or not. I would assume the same thing for all the other gear that is sold with a Cabela's or BPS logo and model number. I've heard the Catmaxx baitcasters are good reels for the money but they are shot after a coupke years, unlike some of the better(and more expensive) other brands. But, honestly, I guess I cant complain too much since those reels are literally al ost half the price of the Abu's I prefer. Another reel I've always wanted to try out is the Daiwa Millionaire Classic, they've sold them forever and they just look exactly like an Ambassador knockoff and they're also considerably cheaper than the real deal Abu Ambassadors.
Hey Steve quick question if you dont mind. Do you use the Carolina Rig because you catch more with it? or is that the Rig you like best?. I've seen other videos where you've used the Kentucky Rig, or does it just depend where your are? or what type of water your fishing at?
Great video Steve! U ever tried the Abu Garcia ambassadeur 5600 Cl rocket reel? It sales for around 75 bucks and it's worth it! It has never malfunctioned on me and it's so smooth to cast and reel it's an amazing reel for the money I'd put it up aginst any of the fanciest reels out there! BTW it works great with the tangling with Catfish rods I've got 2 of those and I love them!
I got the same set up with the catmaxx and the white tangling with catfish rod last year cause of your tips and I wanted somthing I know would work and we caught strippers and cats with it at Lake Texoma pretty bad ass stuff man thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Thanks for the information, you do a great job presenting your material and I appreciate you taking the time to share it with us. I just got off the phone with the New Mexico governors office about SB226, the lady said they were getting hundreds of calls on this bill. I sure hope the Governor doesn't let it pass.
Good reels, I was skeptical as I’ve used Abu reels but just bought a Catmaxx and they cast better than my Abu 7000 and are only $69 bucks 8 years later. Lol thanks for the rigging video.
I would like to see you catching smaller catfish and your setup for smaller cats because down here in south Texas where I live all there is to fish are canals and there isn't trophy cat in them so I would like to see how you would approach these smaller cats . You're amazing haha
***** we will do some bank fishing videos this season that feature the smaller eater size cats. Please check back and thanks for stopping by to leave a comment
Steve what kind of line and hooks do you use. I am going to fish the Tennessee River and do you have any areas for me to try. Thanks I watch your vidios all the time i love them and your new boat. Looking for me one now.
The drag in baitcasters is usually more durable and you can put more of a heavier line on a baitcaster . Also the crank handles hold up better. What the "real" differences are besides the ones I just pointed out is that manufacturers just dont make many spinning reels that are big enough for catfish and affordable. Now you can get a saltwater reel thats made for tuna and marlin but those are hella expensive. Okuma and Kastking make some pretty awesome baitfeeders. They are really nice and affordable. My son just got me a qauntam that is really nice reel and rod combo for fathers day and have caught a few big flatheads on it. Holding up awesome. Hope that helps. Good luck.
I prefer using a monofilament starter line as opposed to electrical tape to avoid the tape gumming up the works over time. Very nice rod and reel combo. I would love a setup like that for offshore fluke and seabass fishing
Hey Steve i bought my dad 2 of those tangling with catfish rods last year after i started watching your videos and he caught a 53 lb blue which ended up wrecking his reel. .... he's partial to spinning reels any suggestions, and i like the new bait knife what is it and where can i possibly get one?
I love the looks of the TWC rods, but I wish they made a 10' version, for the spinning rod. I am concerned that the shorter one is going to hurt my castablility, vs my Cabela's King Kat II's, which are 10'.
Hey Steve just wondering how much would that reel and rod together run ya? Thanks for the videos they are a big help have been subscribed for about a year now and never miss a single one.
Hey Steve, I talked to ya on the phone today, Muskingum River Jeff from Ohio. Got 2 questions, first, i didnt notice you pushing the button in on that reel after you set it in the rod holder. do you keep your reels set in the lock position because i didnt notice a free spool switch on that reel. Second, have you ever tried a reel that has a free spool switch ? if you get a second, jump on Ebay and type in true temper 945 or ocean city 945. hell of a reel. mostly all weve used my whole life.
Steve you know when you have fished for so long and scored some good trophies when you say "that's not the one where looking for" when that's what I've been looking for haha
Steve Douglas The Catfish Dude I just wanna say its nice to see someone, more like your everyday fisherman not covered in sponsors doing videos. Me and my wife love them. Keep them up. thanks!
Steve, you have no idea how much I just learned by watching this video....not to mention the countless others that you've taught by this one video. I watch and re-watch you and Kris Flores on a daily basis. Thank you for what you do!
I just bought me a set of monster rod holder Steve and you're right they're awesome very good product sturdy built never seen nothing as good as these good old-fashioned American ingenuity America craftsmanship at a good price you keep catching them and typing them I'll keep watching good luck
I can't thank you enough Steve, the fishing tips that I've gotten from you are the best information that I have ever got, 63 yrs. old and been cat fishing since I was 5, & a bamboo pole, retired truck driver & doing more fishing on shore & off in a 12ft. flat bottom with a friend of mine, a lot of the info I pass on to one of my friends cause he doesn't have a internet, and he too has learned many things from what you have shown that I pass on to him, So because of your tips & advice we are catching more cat fish. Thank you for all you do to help us all in all.....
Richard Hilbert Richard thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment. im glad you guys able to get some take aways from our videos
you bet & thanks again..
Great video, Steve!
I've spooled 100's of reels with braid and all you need is a quarter-sized piece of tape(any tape except Scotch tape). The braid will never slip on the spool.
Good fishing!
Steve, I think I have watch most all of your videos. I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for being so down to earth and seriously wanting to help the rest of is learn how to catfish.
thanks Jeff
Thanks for the video and the tips Steve. I use an ambassadeur and I really like it. I am more than willing to give the CatMaxx a try though as I use their poles sometimes and they've never failed me before.
Thanks fro stopping by to leave a comment, I hope you have a great season
Steve,
I just wanted to take a minute as a newer subscriber to say Thank You for taking the time to do all that you do and not just for us fellow fisherman but for the sport it self. Life style sounds better then sport. ;)
I am looking forward to all that you bring here for us and for all the insight and rekindling the things learned and forgotten about.
Thank You Again
God Bless
Jim
james wascko thanks for dropping by to leave a comment james
Stevo I finally got my tangling with catfish and catmaxx reel today!!!! Thanks a whole bunch I hope I get to catch a few big cats like you do!!!!
+thebandittransam Bo How is the reel? I noticed they relaunched the reel and it looks very different from what Steve has. What's your thoughts on it so far?
caught 4 big cats today with this combo
On all my new cork grips and handles I apply U-40 cork seal, a great product to harden and seal cork from fish slime, and retains its feel in the hand and reduces discoloration.
Steve, this is another great video. I recently started fishing for blue cats on the James River in Virginia and had great results based on tips that I learned from your videos. We are consistently catching 40+ LB blue cats. Thanks a lot and keep it coming.
I have learned so many things from your videos and started to use your tactics for catfishing
I love your attitude towards other manufacturer's, not putting them down (Abu) but pointing out you prefer your equipment. Refreshing and classy.
Thanks for the water seal tip on the rod handles as well I'm def. going to be using that! Cheers!
I bought my first catmaxx reel in Cincinnati in 2002..sure did...I fished lake Cowan in Wilmington Ohio...I loved it....it was give to me for a birthday present by my wife...those be were my best fishing years..
@Mark Reeves Mark I drifted up to Ohio in 2001 and was just roaming the country east to west and found Wilmington and Clarksville just by roaming....lake Cowan was so much fun ...so I bought a pontoon boat and just fished everyday....I stayed 2 years and when I left and came back to Georgia I missed the north and was sad I left...I made many friends and learned a lot from them good people....I was actually headed to Montana but lake Cowan just got a hold on me...I love to fish and I took two years off work and just done exactly that....I'm 20 years older now and still fishing...
not sure if you already have but you should post a video about bank fishing a big river. I live about 15 minutes from the Mississippi river in Stl Missouri
Gabriel Liss i know this is late but i live in north county (jennings) always looking for a fishing buddy i am a guy (its my wifes account) ...hope to hear back from ya
I live about 5 minutes from the Missouri river, I would love to see Steve make a video on that too!
Joe Zuzolo harder to find holes on bank thats why everybody wants a boat for the electronics to find the fish so it wont be a waste of time. i fish the sippi and cumberland Tn river
I love bank fishing the rivers 👍👍👍
Hey Steve I want you to know keep up the exellent work I'm only 13 and I watch you videos and they are helping my struggle with catching fish thanks for posting these videos thanks a lot
Thanks for watching our videos Kevin , I hope you have a great season.
Thank you. You too
hey steve, thanks for commenting back, sorry you been feeling bad , soon as skip jack come in i sure will be at markland dam srocking up on them , me an couple buddies are getting ready to head down towards madison to place called brooksburg, will keep you up dated on how their biting , keep the video's coming really enjoy them, get well buddy , thanks bill
Bill Davidson thanks Bill
I am an abu garcia man. Easy to work on am easy to upgrade. Just recently sold my first ever owed abu reel to a friend. Had it 10 years fished it every weekend . Never broke down once. All about what each guy prefers . Those new cat Maxx are looking good though. I love your vids steve. I check in daily for new vids. Tight lines bro.
John Colwell thanks for stopping by John
I have not used the CatMaxx but am glad to know about them. I have always used the Abu Garcia 6500s. I figure it is just what you get used to. I'll be trying to get out this weekend since the ice is gone from Indiana and the water is about 48 degrees now. Of course we are expecting some snow tomorrow. I used to love that Alabama weather when I lived there. Great video Steve. If you get a chance, a good video about muscle beds would be appreciated.
Tom Waskom thank you for commenting Tom.
Steve you doing these videos is a great thing. Showing ppl how much fun CPR can be and how to do everything right so fewer missed fish. Ive learned one thing from your videos TWC rods are the way to go. Hopefully this year I might see yea in Monsters on the Ohio!
E Rat thanks for stopping by to leave a comment, I hope you have a great season.
Just bought a cat maxx spinning reel and a cat buster rod from bass pro today. Caught about 30 skipjack and mooneye yesterday. Can't wait to hit the river!
Steve your videos are the best im an avid catfisherman from tx keep em up bud
Tomcat84 Thanks Tomcat, Im glad you enjoy.
I bought a PB Catmaxx reel today and got it rigged with a Carolina rig. I’ve been using some Zebco spincasters. They work but I don’t know for how long. Friends were telling me to get the Abu Garcia but I figured if the catmaxx serves you well I was going with it. I caught my first flathead last fall and my first blue last weekend. I love your videos and I’m soaking up the tips . Thanks Steve.
I've been having that spinning problem. Your the man steve I've asked alot of people that question no one seemed to have an answer
Love the catmaxx reels. Thanks for sharing the info with us sir. Since watching your videos I have been able to maximize my cat fish angling.
Steve, Brett here from Washington State. I can't fish with as many poles as you, however I am testing presentations, depth, ect. I loved the video where you fished for cats around barges. I learned to focus my time around barges that have been sitting for awhile. (Apposed to barges frequently moving, Now I'm catching more fish.
Thanks Brett
A older fellow told me the spool adjusting trick right after i started using ambassador 5000's 30 years ago,, Now i use the 7000 widespool's and the spool adjustment!
Nice Video dude!!
Yay!! I've been waiting for this video!! Your tips and tricks are super helpful. You told me about the Cat Maxx reel a few weeks ago an I LOVE it!! Definitely a good recommendation to someone who doesn't want to go out and spend $150 on a Abu Garcia 6500 when all your buying is the name and not the product itself. Keep them coming Catfish King! =)
Steve, I always enjoy your videos. You seem to be a good guy shairing what you have learned. Something most guys dont do or have sold out to corporate sponsors.
I have been stalled in my catfishing adventures. I have spent some time watching most all of your videos and have spent a lot of money on some gear this year (Lorance HDS7 touch & Motorguide Xi5 80) All looks a little strange mounted on my 1976 Polar Craft john boat. Anyway, I wanted to say thank you for sharing even when they are not paying you!!!
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment Jeff. I never judge a man by the rig he runs and the boat dont catch the fish LOL you made a good choice in the HDS7 and the Xi5 they should really help you locate and catch some monsters. Good luck this season
Hey Steve I'd like to see a detailed video on how you throw your front and back anchor to anchor up on fish on lakes and on the river. That would be awesome.
brokenpockets82 we will have that this spring , reel soon, thanks for stopping by.
Great 🎥s! I'm not a cat fishermen, but like your 🎥s! I trout stream fish. God Bless!
Nice set up. I got a Medium-Heavy Ugly Stik bait caster rod with a Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S 65000. I'm gonna try to get some video of it in action this summer.
+The Regulator thanks best of luck to you this season
Nice video Steve. I use the exact same setup all but the way you tie your braid on. I start out with mono
Just bought mine today at bass pro shop. Can't wait to use them on the Mississippi by Alton IL!
Fisherdanpro23 good luck
i love my catmaxx reels just got 8 and 2 twc rods. they are a deadly combo. thanks for the videos steve keep them coming
Nice vid Steve. I appreciate the no nonsense approach. Biting the 50lb mono is a nice touch. :) Sometimes I see too much emphasis on the WOW factor in fishing videos and they forget the reason people are there to watch them.
Thanks,, I always like to leave my viewers with some take aways, rather than beating my chest and saying look at me and my big fish or self proclaiming pro status. I like to connect with folks and show them the real days on the water with the fish I catch whether they big or small. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment Darren
You are a humble man Steve that's the reason why I subbed AND THE GREAT TIPS 👍👍👍 lol
Steve Douglas The Catfish Dude is the monster rods any stronger than the original
Great idea on the black tape. Easier than trying to tape the spool up before tying the line on.
No bead between the sinker and swivel? I'm just using a cheap plastic Walmart jewelry bead, but even with that my braid gets a little worn behind the swivel. I often cut and retie the braid to my swivel when I see it getting a little wear. I'm probably going to start using a 1/4" nub of clear plastic tubing to cushion the sinker and swivel connection.
Thanks for the set up help JUST bought a new Catmaxx setup VERY helpful tip I've used spinning reels exclusively this IS my FIRST baitcaster.
Steve I would really like to see you bank fishing in a video sometime
Brendan Thane Brendan thats on the list of videos for this season. Thanks for stopping by.
Sounds good looking foward for your videos this year
Now your talking. I love and rather fish off the bank. Exspecialy at night.
Its definitely more of a challenge.
@@ernestwalden3894 while I have great spots that I can't boat that I fish occasionally. Why would I want that challenge?
Ah new fishing poles. Bout makes ya a little giddy don't it. I have been curious about those catmaxx reels ever since I saw them in Bass Pro a few years ago. They looked like good reels but I already had several garcias so I didn't buy any. May have to get a couple any way after watching this. Can't never have to many fishin poles. Will definitely be looking into those rods though. Those are sweet. Thanks for another great vid sir.
great products and the right price. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
One of the best fishing shows on youtube. Awesome vids! Keep em coming!!
Brian Urias Thanks for stopping by to leave a comment Brian, we are so glad to hear comments like that. I hope you have a great season.
love ur videos trying to absorb all i can i dont get to fish big rivers much but i still listen so i can learn thanks for the great videos
Steve I dont know if i said this but I want to thank you for saying hi when you and Kris and the guy from cats and carp was out eating before or after the catfish conference couple years back
Thank you for the preview I've just recently moved to NC and started cat fishing. I got a Cat Maxx Reel last year because of one of your earlier video's. I love it also. Now I just need to get a rod and ill be set for this year. Can't wait to see more. Keep up the great Work!!
Enjoyed the video and I was thrilled to see your tackle box. Mine is very similar and I know I'm doing things right. I wanted to mention that if you tie your leader to the swivel first with a palomar knot, you can use the palomar knot to tie your main line. Listen to that, me telling the expert how to do things. Thanks for all the information.
If you are fishing like me, without a boat, would you still recommend the Carolina rig, from the bank, since I can't suspend it. If you do think another rig would be better, what would it be?
Sante Cooper rig
cooper gamblin yes a Santee Cooper rig, ... or just a sliding sinker rig with a sacrificial sinker rig with a pyramid sinker.
Pretty much everyone I know uses the Carolina rig, exclusively when fishing from the bank. The only other option I would suggest giving a try, and I know some guys just kill em using it, but give Cat Bobber a try, especially at night with live bait. I dont think the Santee-Cooper rig is ideal for us bank-bound catfisherman because the idea of the Santee-Cooper rig is for use while drifting or trolling really slow so it's not much use if you're using it from the bank unless you're 'bouncing' your bait downstream(which I just cant fo arou d where I fish because of the snags and rocks in the water, it's a guarantee that I'll end up losing my entire rig and bait when it gets hung up somewhere.) Though I do know if some areas guys that are really good at doing it can have awesome luck using the 'bouncing' technique. Just my .02
Thanks for sharing Steve ... Will have to check them out the next time I vist Bass Pro Shop. I also like the Ming Yang reels you showcased a while back.
Ming yangs seem to be harder to get now days, but the cat maxx reels some great reels for the money.
love the sound of a fresh cast!
Steve been watching ur videos for long time iv chased cat for lot of years as of yesterday I just purchased a TWC rod and new cat max reel cant wait to get them keep up good videos
once again thanks for an awsome video, thats all i use is cattmax reels. Steve do you not use a rubber bumper between your swivel and sinker?
no i dont because i use braided line and a bumper wouldn't really help as the knot slides up in the sinker and is not affected by it as it would if it was mono. I never have had an issue with breakage because of lack of sinker bumper. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment conrad.
hello good video I have a question I can give the information of the rod you use and where can I buy thanks
Steve, this is good stuff. Based on a few of your comments, I like you come from a bass fishing background and am now wanting to do more catfishing and have learned a ton from your videos. A couple of technical questions. What size/ strength swivels do you suggest and what size/ style hooks? Thanks so much. Since leaving the tournament bass fishing world, I have taken up fly fishing, saltwater fishing, and just fishing for fun and am like a kid with new toys. After catching the saltwater fish, I have becoming addicted to catching fish that truly pull, tug, and fight. This catfishing looks awesome!
Bass Star I use a number 10 Mustad demon circle hook with a 200 lb test barrel swivels. you should try some big catfish they will get you hooked for sure. Thanks for stopping by to leave a comment. I hope you have a great season.
Thanks so much Steve. Much appreciated. I am in your area so will see you on the water sometime for sure.
I bought a Shimano GX2 rod on sale at Walmart that's such a heavy action it's basically a broom stick. Always pay attention to how fast your rod tips are before you buy them. It's basically just for big swimbaits now unfortunately. I love the rods you use Steve, especially the cork handles.
Why do you prefer casting reel from spinning reel? Hope you will do a video on this. Thank you.
I received my extreme rod today after 8 weeks of waiting but it was well worth it.can't wait to hang a big one on it
I use a pair of Penn Peer #109 reels, w level wind for 30 years. Never a problem, except the pawl on level wind reels wears out. For monsters, I use an old Penn Squidder, non level wind #140. Caught sharks on it.
Got 3 cat max reels being delivered tomorrow now got to work on getting some TWC rods.
Sweet setup. I remember your video of you using a "Barbie" rod and reel and you landed that fish. Like most things, buy what you can afford and everything else will fall in place. I use vintage Garcia Mitchell 300's from the '60's and '70's with Shakespeare Catfish Ugly Stiks. It's old school and I like it. Will they stop a barge if I cast on it? No, but they will make those Detroit Diesel's bog down for a second...lol. The lightest tackle to get the job done=the biggest "rush."
your right, thanks for stopping by to leave a comment
I do fresh and salt water fishing being in san diego and use my off shore penn reels on intercoastal rods for cats. but the cat max seem pretty cheap and sturdy for price I might pick a couple up. good vid!! see if they have some on sale at the fred hall fishin show this weekend!! woot woot!!
worst mexican thanks for stopping by to leave a comment, best of luck to you this season.
Steve i wanted to say thanks i have took sum of your advice and it has really improved my fishing great videos
hell yea thanks doug! im grabing me a catmaxx here soon forsure. That BLACK TaPE technique helped sooo much dude! Nice video, and nice "slingability"!
Donjulios opinion doug dont care about my comment cuz im some young punk huh? well actually i fish everyday! and i love the wATER. im guess im feeling down because i enjoy his videos and would love to fish with him! good luck with the channel doug! im a good guy even though i look like some young punk ;(
Love your channel! Notice you latch your hooks into the bigger eyes on your rod. I've seen other videos where they say that is a big no-no because ("they" say) it will compromise the eye and slowly lacerate your line and ultimately-end up in a break while you're reeling in cat. Common sense tells you that the only sharpened part is the end of the hook. Your thoughts? I've done this for years and rarely have such a break.
+Elias Galvan i been doing it for years with no issues but im a guy who uses the heck out of my equipment hard. beating and banging around in the boat, i find some guys take gentle care of their equipment, i think its just a preference.
I suppose if a person is careless and is cutting grooves in the guide with the hook barb the burrs could abrade braid line.
Great video.... Always been curious on your rod and reel combo.... Oh and you should make sling your catchphrase thought it was hilarious.
slingability! LOL thanks for the comment Jacob
Hey Steve, great video enjoy watching it! Them are some nice reels you just got there. I saw them in the store last time was in bass pro shops. Them are some nice rods you just got too . I like its got stainless part on them not plastic that pole will last you along time. Where did you get them from ? Keep catching the biggins and keep the videos coming.
Marshall Hurt Thanks for the support Marshall
In stock now !!! Just ordered one today!
Wow, I have been looking at the Abu Garcia C7000 catfish reel and almost ordered one but decided to revisit this video and am glad I did; I can get the combo you featured here for the price of what I was going to pay for just that reel. Good stuff.
Everyone is certainly welcome to their own opinions, but I definitely disagree with Steve about the Abu Garcia's. I think they are without a doubt the finest, smoothest, toughest and most reliable reels money can buy. Especially the 7000 reels, those things are built(In Sweden, I might add) like tanks!! I hope you have great luck with the Catmaxx real and the TWC rods, I am planning on picking up at least one, hopefully 2, of the Catmaxx baitcasters like Steve uses and I'd also love to have a couple of those rods as well but I am happy with the 'Meat Hunter' rods that I can get for half the price of the TWC Catfish rods.
this reel and rod is a deadly combo.I caught a 20lb catfish last night and the fish skied across the water i was sursprise the reel has that power.
Hello Mr. Douglas. Hope your doing ok. I love all the videos and have probably watched them all about 10 times each already. I was curious cause I saw you had said before that the reason you don't use abu garcia ambassadeur reels is because your not to fond of them. Is there a more spacific reason you don't like them or use them? The ming yang reels are exact copies of the abu garcia ambassadeur reels and I see you use to use them but I don't see you using them anymore. I remember you had that brand new black mc500 ming yang in one video and I never saw it after that. Just curious if you had bad luck with abu and had them break on you all the time. I know alot of people have that problem with them. I know when I look at the catmaxx the first reel that comes to my mind that it looks kinda like is the shimano corvalus or cardiff. I know you have some shimano cardiff reels. How would you compare them to the catmaxx reel and the ming yang reels? Hope to hear back from you. Thank you
I find that kinda odd, personally as I find the Abu Ambassadors, well at least the C3, C4, 7000 and Rocket models to be the absolute cream of the crop as far as the old school round baitcasters go though Im sure some of the Shimano models that are similar are just as good if not better. I just havent had the opportunity to use any of the Shimanos. I've always liked the fact that most of the good Abu Ambassadors are made in Sweden, I am much happier paying that much money for a reel that ISN'T made in China, but that's just my opinion. I would really like to hear why Steve doesnt care for the Abu's. Plus, Ive seen OOOLLLLLD Ambassadors from the 60's-80's that are STILL going strong if they've been maintained and really taken care of. I find that extremely impressive and a testament to their build and parts quality and reliability. You don't see many other reel models or companies gear that is still going strong after literal decades of faithful service.
By the way, I know that ALL the Cabela's and BPS reels are made by someone else and just rebadged with a Cabela's or BPS logo and model number. I think that back in the day the Catmaxx baitcasters were made by Quantum. I don't know if they still are or not. I would assume the same thing for all the other gear that is sold with a Cabela's or BPS logo and model number. I've heard the Catmaxx baitcasters are good reels for the money but they are shot after a coupke years, unlike some of the better(and more expensive) other brands. But, honestly, I guess I cant complain too much since those reels are literally al ost half the price of the Abu's I prefer. Another reel I've always wanted to try out is the Daiwa Millionaire Classic, they've sold them forever and they just look exactly like an Ambassador knockoff and they're also considerably cheaper than the real deal Abu Ambassadors.
Hey Steve quick question if you dont mind. Do you use the Carolina Rig because you catch more with it? or is that the Rig you like best?. I've seen other videos where you've used the Kentucky Rig, or does it just depend where your are? or what type of water your fishing at?
Great video Steve! U ever tried the Abu Garcia ambassadeur 5600 Cl rocket reel? It sales for around 75 bucks and it's worth it! It has never malfunctioned on me and it's so smooth to cast and reel it's an amazing reel for the money I'd put it up aginst any of the fanciest reels out there! BTW it works great with the tangling with Catfish rods I've got 2 of those and I love them!
I got the same set up with the catmaxx and the white tangling with catfish rod last year cause of your tips and I wanted somthing I know would work and we caught strippers and cats with it at Lake Texoma pretty bad ass stuff man thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Im actually gonna get a couple of these same set-ups... Keep the vids coming Steve, by the way I hope all is well with you.
thank you kent
Thanks for the information, you do a great job presenting your material and I appreciate you taking the time to share it with us. I just got off the phone with the New Mexico governors office about SB226, the lady said they were getting hundreds of calls on this bill. I sure hope the Governor doesn't let it pass.
andyattitude2000 thanks
BEEN TRYING TO ORDER THAT REEL OFF B.P. IT'S ALWAYS ON BACK ORDER.LOOKS LIKE A GOOD AFFORDABLE REEL FOR MY T.W.C. ROD. KEEP UP THE GOOD VIDS.
in stock now
Great job, I will be buying some catmaxx reels. Thank you
Good reels, I was skeptical as I’ve used Abu reels but just bought a Catmaxx and they cast better than my Abu 7000 and are only $69 bucks 8 years later. Lol thanks for the rigging video.
I would like to see you catching smaller catfish and your setup for smaller cats because down here in south Texas where I live all there is to fish are canals and there isn't trophy cat in them so I would like to see how you would approach these smaller cats . You're amazing haha
***** we will do some bank fishing videos this season that feature the smaller eater size cats. Please check back and thanks for stopping by to leave a comment
A nice start of video with a nice fish!
Nice ima gonna get me a cat max reel bass pro shop is only 3 miles from my house here in seffner Florida
Good video Steve. Nice to see a good reel for a good price. Thanks for the info.
would be awesome to see you on Guntersville again in a future video
very soon matt, thanks for stopping by
Great video Steve always enjoy watching
thanks Timothy
Steve what kind of line and hooks do you use. I am going to fish the Tennessee River and do you have any areas for me to try. Thanks I watch your vidios all the time i love them and your new boat. Looking for me one now.
I ordered that med heavy version of the rod and bought the reel! Thanks
Where did you find the rods? Thanks
Is there an advantage to baitcaster reels vs spinner reels or is it just a preference thing?
The drag in baitcasters is usually more durable and you can put more of a heavier line on a baitcaster . Also the crank handles hold up better. What the "real" differences are besides the ones I just pointed out is that manufacturers just dont make many spinning reels that are big enough for catfish and affordable. Now you can get a saltwater reel thats made for tuna and marlin but those are hella expensive. Okuma and Kastking make some pretty awesome baitfeeders. They are really nice and affordable. My son just got me a qauntam that is really nice reel and rod combo for fathers day and have caught a few big flatheads on it. Holding up awesome. Hope that helps. Good luck.
What is the size cat max real you prefer, your videos are amazing and help educate me in catfishing... so thank you
I prefer using a monofilament starter line as opposed to electrical tape to avoid the tape gumming up the works over time.
Very nice rod and reel combo. I would love a setup like that for offshore fluke and seabass fishing
i ahve this set up it is deadly
Hey Steve i bought my dad 2 of those tangling with catfish rods last year after i started watching your videos and he caught a 53 lb blue which ended up wrecking his reel. .... he's partial to spinning reels any suggestions, and i like the new bait knife what is it and where can i possibly get one?
Rick N its a mustad brand Knife. I think you can get them at cabelas. Thanks for stopping by Rick
I love the looks of the TWC rods, but I wish they made a 10' version, for the spinning rod. I am concerned that the shorter one is going to hurt my castablility, vs my Cabela's King Kat II's, which are 10'.
Steve, I like to fish for Monster Blues on the Ohio River! Another Good Video!
Btw i don't know how you bite through your line like that I can barley get through 6 lb tess haha
LMAO Your like me Taylor you have to chew through it lol
My record/ pb is 4lb tess
I used to be able to do 30lb but after years and years It hurts to get through 4lb...
Always keep some clippers on you. You'll tear your teeth up eventually.
Yeah the extremes are out of stock currently, but I will email them, thanks for the advice and quick response, by the way great videos keep em coming!
What is the name of the rod you are using? I can't understand what you are saying, but everything else is quite clear. Thanks for the nice video.
Hey Steve just wondering how much would that reel and rod together run ya? Thanks for the videos they are a big help have been subscribed for about a year now and never miss a single one.
Coleman Alexander reels are like 59.00 Thanks for stopping by Coleman
Awesome video really like that Rod the Tangling with catfish Rod how much are the rods ????????????????
Which model rod do you prefer as far as med. heavy or heavy. Just thinking about the ability to cast those 8 oz sinkers without breaking the rods.
Hey Steve, I talked to ya on the phone today, Muskingum River Jeff from Ohio. Got 2 questions, first, i didnt notice you pushing the button in on that reel after you set it in the rod holder. do you keep your reels set in the lock position because i didnt notice a free spool switch on that reel. Second, have you ever tried a reel that has a free spool switch ? if you get a second, jump on Ebay and type in true temper 945 or ocean city 945. hell of a reel. mostly all weve used my whole life.
I use Windex to clean the cork handles on my rods works like a charm
i love that rod and reel i would love to have one !
Steve you know when you have fished for so long and scored some good trophies when you say "that's not the one where looking for" when that's what I've been looking for haha