Dave I just have to say, I’ve been watching your videos for over 5yr and I have enjoyed almost every one!! Keep doin what you do man I love to fish when I can and you are an inspiration to us all. Thank you. Ted A. From Texas I’m disabled and limited, but I keep trying bud
Have you ever had a fish complain it was caught on a 'cheap' hook? I haven't either and when you're retired and on a fixed income, we don't call 'em cheap, we refer to them as inexpensive. Enjoyed your video and those husky cats. Thanks for sharing.
Great video, congrats on the good day fishing. Prices going sky high on everything, I REALLY appreciate the lower cost gear and tackle recommendations. I'm retired (no income) I make my own dragging weights (coiled lead and heatshrink) and planer boards, and cheap Wal-mart peg floats. Been using four $29.99 Wal-mart Berkley Big Game rods & used /old but good enough ebay Diawa Sealine 50H's ($30-$40) for both dragging and suspending, but gonna bite the bullet and buy two e-cats for dragging and two Ugly Stik Big Water's for suspending, & definitely buy those hooks.
Why buy new rods if your Berkley Big Game's work? I use the same rods as you, and they work fine. BTW... I use the Eagle Claw Kahyle hooks, also at Walmart. If you take it easy on the fish, they work fine. IMHO.
@@ratoneJR The Big Games are a little short and have a softer tip. I wanted some rods that were stiffer (for a better self hook set) and a little longer for easier hauling in (I am old..lol). I still use the Big Game rods but now for bumping below the dam (easier to work - lighter, a bit shorter). I see a pro like Dave using them, good enough recommendation for me. I like circle hooks, but I agree Kahyle hooks work good, just a matter of preference from my experience set rig surf fishing. The circle hook geometry seems to work better for big baits. I believe in having equipment that can haul in the biggest possible fish, and the new rods can handle a 120lb cat (maybe one day).
Another great day for me because of you and your videos it just make my day so much better. The information that you give us to make us a better fisherman, anyway to me it’s like a ton of gold. It’s like insider trading we have a guy that does the buying and then trying it all out and we take that information that works and doesn’t work and we use it we save so much time and are not wasting our money so thanks.Thank you for sharing and your time on the water
I’ve been using the KUNSILANE hooks in 6/0,8/0,10/0, and 12/0. I occasionally get one or two hooks that they haven’t fully enclosed the eyelet. However, for the price I always go back to them. Because they’ve yet to let me down with any cats.
Been having a good run with big fish lately. Awesome I also like the fact that your head is always on a swivel when you’re bringing them in, trying to keep from tangled in the other lines and looking out for other boats
I use those exact same hooks for my redfish leaders, I use a wire leader so the imperfections do not effect anything. They are strong for sure caught many of 3ft. sharks on them with no problem. Another great video, keep the algorithm going.
Looks like another good day on Cherokee Lake!! I have some of those cheaper hooks that I've been using since the prices of the Gamakatsu hooks have gone up. Landed a 50 lb. blue cat in my last video on one of them. No issues. If work and weather weren't against me, I would bring you some skipjack and fish awhile, but neither one will cooperate. Congrats on the big ones and tight lines, Dave!!
CD, like your gear updates and assessments. I like the smaller reels as well. Why put 500yds of line on a bigger reel when you rarely have more than 75yds out? The smaller Shimano and Diawa reels (1500 series) are perfect and will crank in pretty much anything. 👍
Man Dave, I watch your videos and I'm wanting to get in the red River here in Louisiana but the rain is keeping me out but as soon as it stops, I'm going fishing. Thanks Dave
Cheap hooks cheap meal that makes you a cheap date. Awesome video definitely enjoying different product reviews would love to see a video on products after lots of use.
Catfish Dave smashin it as per usual. Must say the last cat, had the best release. Reckon one day someone will do a comp of your best releases. Stay blessed bro.
the fish don't know what hook is in its mouth >> thank you for the honesty - and your still the best catfisherman I have ever known - Bill Maguire & Shorty Blevins were outstanding in the day
I lost my dad in 1989 but back in the 80’s he would order eagle claw circle hooks from a mail order catalog. Because no one in our local area carried circle hooks. Which I still have a couple of mid 80’s cardboard boxes of eagle claw circle hooks
Hey Dave, the water level in that lake is so low the fish are concentrated in less water. That should equal more success! Love your videos. I’m so old and worn out, I’d rather watch you fish than do it myself. Tight lines and I hope all those dinks get lockjaw!
I use the same hooks, for the price cannot be beat. You do have to go through the hooks. Sharpen some folded points and clean up burs by the eyes. Never had one fail. Just need a little prepping
Great video sir, really enjoy your gear teasts and how u a variety of products and kinda review. But from my experience even those high dollar hooks will have a defect or a mark on them and will make them weaker then the cheaps ones. I also learned that you don't want your pliers touching any part of the hook. The scratches on the hooks weakens its entreaty
I've learned through trial and error that best gear in the world doesn't make much of a difference. I have a small collection of Ugly Stik's, never paid more than forty bucks for any of them and they're all I use. Same goes for hooks and weights, give me the twenty buck box over the six buck bag of two any day. Another great video and good tips as always.
When I was on a budget I used the bulk packs on Amazon, over time I’ve acquired a few different brands and I have to say that the Gamakatsu are my favorite
@@fonzi107 I've never seen them anywhere for that price. They're normally over 15$ or more for a 25 pack, and that's 2/0 hooks, so I'm sure the large hooks are more
Had some of those cheap hooks for a while now they are ok but I’m still not convinced they are better than a standard J hook ! Circle hooks are to me a setup for failure !
The most I've spent on a rod and reel is $39 at Big 5. Ocean set-up.Caught many of catfish with the biggest a30 lb flathead. I can't see spending all that money for " big name" gear.
I'm blaming YOU, Dave ! I bought 2 Berkley Ecat rods. I've had them for a couple months and haven't used them. 🤣 I STILL LOVE MY UGLY STIKS ! If they ever let me down (or I do something dumb) They are geared and ready ! 🤣🤣🤣
6 bucks for 2 hooks, ouch!! A bad day on the water could get expensive fast!! Those rods are nice for the price and if they pass the Catfish Dave test they're a keeper!!!
I wouldn't refer to those hooks, as cheap, more like inexpensive hooks. They get the job done and don't cost nearly as much as the the big name hooks. Cheap hooks are the ones that break, when you set the hook, or while you are bringing the fish in.
Dave, love the explanations and details of what equipment your using. I like it better than your normal videos whereby you just start fishing. The details you cover are small but very important in the overall success you have. FYI, I don’t catfish but want to try after watching you
Little late to the comments, but have you tried your hand at catfishing yet? It's a blast when you get grip on it and finding the fish! Anyways just thought I'd ask and good luck out there and stay safe!! 👍
@@Lanny-io9bi I have fished a LOT in my life for everything but catfish. The exception is trot line fishing which I absolutely love. Made my own after watching a commercial fisherman do it. I’ve just never done it with a rod. 👍😂
@@FDXman65 that's awesome! I grew up fishing for everything as well and when time came getting my driver's license I really got into chasing catfish and been ate up with it every since lol good luck out there and thanks for the response! Tight line's my friend!
Another great video. Your a down to earth dude Dave. One ? I have is what planer boards do you use? I’m gonna get into trolling for cats using boards and well your sort of an expert on it
Where I fish there are no people.. Every time I stand up to pee. I get a bite. Trying to eat works good too. Mark the time of day they are biting. I love it ... Gettin it done.
What are your thoughts on your boat? Would you recommend it if someone was thinking about buying one. What range do you get with the 6 gallon gas tank? Thanks and love your videos
I personally don't like bent eyes. When you snell them you get less "trigger" action. They do catch fish just like any hook just a few will pop on you.
Big name does not always mean quality,just a higher price.
Dave I just have to say, I’ve been watching your videos for over 5yr and I have enjoyed almost every one!!
Keep doin what you do man I love to fish when I can and you are an inspiration to us all. Thank you. Ted A. From Texas I’m disabled and limited, but I keep trying bud
Way to go Dave do your thing man. You got the best catfishing videos on TH-cam.
Have you ever had a fish complain it was caught on a 'cheap' hook? I haven't either and when you're retired and on a fixed income, we don't call 'em cheap, we refer to them as inexpensive. Enjoyed your video and those husky cats. Thanks for sharing.
Great video, congrats on the good day fishing. Prices going sky high on everything, I REALLY appreciate the lower cost gear and tackle recommendations. I'm retired (no income) I make my own dragging weights (coiled lead and heatshrink) and planer boards, and cheap Wal-mart peg floats. Been using four $29.99 Wal-mart Berkley Big Game rods & used /old but good enough ebay Diawa Sealine 50H's ($30-$40) for both dragging and suspending, but gonna bite the bullet and buy two e-cats for dragging and two Ugly Stik Big Water's for suspending, & definitely buy those hooks.
Why buy new rods if your Berkley Big Game's work? I use the same rods as you, and they work fine. BTW... I use the Eagle Claw Kahyle hooks, also at Walmart. If you take it easy on the fish, they work fine. IMHO.
@@ratoneJR The Big Games are a little short and have a softer tip. I wanted some rods that were stiffer (for a better self hook set) and a little longer for easier hauling in (I am old..lol). I still use the Big Game rods but now for bumping below the dam (easier to work - lighter, a bit shorter). I see a pro like Dave using them, good enough recommendation for me. I like circle hooks, but I agree Kahyle hooks work good, just a matter of preference from my experience set rig surf fishing. The circle hook geometry seems to work better for big baits. I believe in having equipment that can haul in the biggest possible fish, and the new rods can handle a 120lb cat (maybe one day).
@@markybob_bassplaya1462 Congrats on making it to retirement! May the fishing winds be in your favor!
@@egomaniac247 Tight lines to you as well.
I like the cheap idea. You should do a video with the cheapest gear you can get buy with👍
Thanks for letting me know, I appreciate it Catfish Dave you truly are the best.
I really like Hookers Terminal Tackle. They will run more around a dollar a hook but I like the quality.
You know Dave after I watch you show for an hour or so my back hurts so bad from helping you with those fish!
Another great day for me because of you and your videos it just make my day so much better. The information that you give us to make us a better fisherman, anyway to me it’s like a ton of gold. It’s like insider trading we have a guy that does the buying and then trying it all out and we take that information that works and doesn’t work and we use it we save so much time and are not wasting our money so thanks.Thank you for sharing and your time on the water
Thank you and well done for promoting cheap hooks in these times of austerity Dave. The fish were magnificent.
Ah, love the sounds of backwoods banjo fiddle music in the morning! Nice fish'n adventure Dave!
I’ve been using the KUNSILANE hooks in 6/0,8/0,10/0, and 12/0. I occasionally get one or two hooks that they haven’t fully enclosed the eyelet. However, for the price I always go back to them. Because they’ve yet to let me down with any cats.
Been having a good run with big fish lately. Awesome
I also like the fact that your head is always on a swivel when you’re bringing them in, trying to keep from tangled in the other lines and looking out for other boats
Lower cost doesn't mean less value, point proven. Thanks Dave for the quick link, picking up my summer supply today!
Another dang good video. Thanks for taking us fishing with you Dave. Truely appreciate ya.
I use those exact same hooks for my redfish leaders, I use a wire leader so the imperfections do not effect anything. They are strong for sure caught many of 3ft. sharks on them with no problem. Another great video, keep the algorithm going.
The fish are so big they took the planer board down deep for awhile. Impressive. Thanks Again Dave!
Good video dave,I use those hooks quite a bit and caught some good fish up to 46lbs and never had one bend or break yet.thanks for doing what you do!
What size do you use?
@@615JOHNLEE 8/0,10/0,12/0
Looks like another good day on Cherokee Lake!! I have some of those cheaper hooks that I've been using since the prices of the Gamakatsu hooks have gone up. Landed a 50 lb. blue cat in my last video on one of them. No issues. If work and weather weren't against me, I would bring you some skipjack and fish awhile, but neither one will cooperate. Congrats on the big ones and tight lines, Dave!!
CD, like your gear updates and assessments. I like the smaller reels as well. Why put 500yds of line on a bigger reel when you rarely have more than 75yds out? The smaller Shimano and Diawa reels (1500 series) are perfect and will crank in pretty much anything. 👍
Man Dave, I watch your videos and I'm wanting to get in the red River here in Louisiana but the rain is keeping me out but as soon as it stops, I'm going fishing. Thanks Dave
Cheap hooks cheap meal that makes you a cheap date. Awesome video definitely enjoying different product reviews would love to see a video on products after lots of use.
Catfish Dave making my snowy day better in Indiana. Glad I see good cheap hooks and good fish. 👍
Nothing like a catfish Dave video. Love everyone way to go Dave that's why you're the Living Legend be safe God Bless
When the banjo is playin catfish Dave is slayin
Can't stop dancing every time you play this music! Keep up the great work 👍👍
Thats a great set up Dave the Phenix & the tranx & that saltist reel is great as well.....
Catfish Dave smashin it as per usual. Must say the last cat, had the best release. Reckon one day someone will do a comp of your best releases. Stay blessed bro.
the fish don't know what hook is in its mouth >> thank you for the honesty - and your still the best catfisherman I have ever known - Bill Maguire & Shorty Blevins were outstanding in the day
Nice cats man! Gonna try to get some cats on my old equipment down here on old jackson lake ga. Great videos great fishing be safe man.
The only way to start my day. Love your videos Dave.
I lost my dad in 1989 but back in the 80’s he would order eagle claw circle hooks from a mail order catalog. Because no one in our local area carried circle hooks. Which I still have a couple of mid 80’s cardboard boxes of eagle claw circle hooks
Awesome. Hang on to those!
I use eagle claw 5/0 & 6/0 for smaller fish under 25lbs , Eagle claw actually makes great hooks!
Been my favorite hooks for a while now, never had an issue with them. If I do, I'll switch it up. Even on heavier gear. Caught grouper with them too.
Thank you for the video Dave, a lot of nice fish on that trip. Good luck and have FUN !
And here I thought We were going to see You catch some fish ! Hahaha ! Nice job Dave . Damn near 200 lbs for the day !!
I never snell my hooks and never miss a hookup on these hooks. Been using them for a couple years and regularly catch 10-40lb fish on them
I ordered some 10/0s, now I have to wait 'till spring to try 'em. Good sized fish Dave, well done!
Hey Dave, the water level in that lake is so low the fish are concentrated in less water. That should equal more success! Love your videos. I’m so old and worn out, I’d rather watch you fish than do it myself. Tight lines and I hope all those dinks get lockjaw!
I use the same hooks, for the price cannot be beat. You do have to go through the hooks. Sharpen some folded points and clean up burs by the eyes. Never had one fail. Just need a little prepping
Great video sir, really enjoy your gear teasts and how u a variety of products and kinda review. But from my experience even those high dollar hooks will have a defect or a mark on them and will make them weaker then the cheaps ones. I also learned that you don't want your pliers touching any part of the hook. The scratches on the hooks weakens its entreaty
Thanks Dave
I've learned through trial and error that best gear in the world doesn't make much of a difference. I have a small collection of Ugly Stik's, never paid more than forty bucks for any of them and they're all I use. Same goes for hooks and weights, give me the twenty buck box over the six buck bag of two any day. Another great video and good tips as always.
When I was on a budget I used the bulk packs on Amazon, over time I’ve acquired a few different brands and I have to say that the Gamakatsu are my favorite
They're high dollar though. Definitely not a budget hook.
My o my. I always thought a plain hook was just a plain tough hook. I have never broken a hook in all my fishing years
@@jrporter50 cheaper than the team catfish hooks. Get 25 of them for like $6 or $7
@@fonzi107 that's not bad at all. I only see the small packs in the bait shop. 👍
@@fonzi107 I've never seen them anywhere for that price. They're normally over 15$ or more for a 25 pack, and that's 2/0 hooks, so I'm sure the large hooks are more
I've always used Gamakatsu Octopus 8/0 hooks. Caught up to 69lb on them. They're pretty cheap if you buy 25.
Excellent Hook test, EXCELLENT .
Just got the hooks, they are as described. Thanks for the tip!
Had some of those cheap hooks for a while now they are ok but I’m still not convinced they are better than a standard J hook ! Circle hooks are to me a setup for failure !
Dave’s a happy man today😂👍
We use 400 tranx and Phenix abyss for small tuna and yellowtail on the west coast. I Love Phenix rods
The most I've spent on a rod and reel is $39 at Big 5. Ocean set-up.Caught many of catfish with the biggest a30 lb flathead. I can't see spending all that money for " big name" gear.
Dave .. that same company makes a hook they call the Big River hook.
The 10/0 is bigger than the 12/0 circle hooks. I just ordered a package of them.
Thanks for sharing the video brother , enjoyed it as usual , GOD BLESS you and have a catfish filled day.
Good fish Dave!
I'm blaming YOU, Dave !
I bought 2 Berkley Ecat rods.
I've had them for a couple months and haven't used them. 🤣 I STILL LOVE MY UGLY STIKS ! If they ever let me down (or I do something dumb) They are geared and ready ! 🤣🤣🤣
Wow , Dave! 5 good fish in a row!
Woooooooo!! It's a good day. 👍🏼🎣
You are the man . When it comes to catching good catfish. Keep it up.😊
I've heard hooks with that style point is only to prevent gut hook. I think you lose more fish with that style and pay more for them.
You're almost guaranteed to catch something when it comes out of China. Cough, sneeze, sniffles and Catfish.
Enjoyed the video and the Bluegrass music!!!
didnt know dragging worked in colder water, thanks dave you the goat...
I recommend testing big catfish hooks by putting them in a vice and seeing if i can break them with my thumb
6 bucks for 2 hooks, ouch!! A bad day on the water could get expensive fast!! Those rods are
nice for the price and if they pass
the Catfish Dave test they're a
keeper!!!
Catfish Dave is the definition of a catfishermen. He is original. He is hard to the core.
Always entertaining Dave !
I have never seen anyone catch so many big catfish! I wonder if a catfish that big tastes good? How big before they taste bad?
I know the good times are starting when I hear that bluegrass!
I wouldn't refer to those hooks, as cheap, more like inexpensive hooks. They get the job done and don't cost nearly as much as the the big name hooks. Cheap hooks are the ones that break, when you set the hook, or while you are bringing the fish in.
Great video Dave nice fish.
we have been using the same hooks for a couple of years now,stronger than gamakatsu,and sharper,great value for the money.
Dave, love the explanations and details of what equipment your using. I like it better than your normal videos whereby you just start fishing. The details you cover are small but very important in the overall success you have.
FYI, I don’t catfish but want to try after watching you
Little late to the comments, but have you tried your hand at catfishing yet? It's a blast when you get grip on it and finding the fish! Anyways just thought I'd ask and good luck out there and stay safe!! 👍
@@Lanny-io9bi I have fished a LOT in my life for everything but catfish. The exception is trot line fishing which I absolutely love. Made my own after watching a commercial fisherman do it. I’ve just never done it with a rod. 👍😂
@@FDXman65 that's awesome! I grew up fishing for everything as well and when time came getting my driver's license I really got into chasing catfish and been ate up with it every since lol good luck out there and thanks for the response! Tight line's my friend!
Them hooks work great
I use Eagle Claw hooks for that same reason.
I have a question, do you see any difference on the hook set or lost any fish on those hooks? Thanks!
I use those hooks never had a problem they work good for me
Another great video. Your a down to earth dude Dave. One ? I have is what planer boards do you use? I’m gonna get into trolling for cats using boards and well your sort of an expert on it
Thanks for the hooks👍🏼
You know the old sayin. "If they don't like you when your goin out, they'll love ya when your comin in..."
I fished several years with Jim moyer who designed the ecat rods
Have you ever fished Sardis lake over around Oxford Mississippi. I was just wondering
Where I fish there are no people.. Every time I stand up to pee. I get a bite. Trying to eat works good too.
Mark the time of day they are biting. I love it ... Gettin it done.
Hey Dave here in NC our lakes and rivers aren't too low but it looks like it is there. How low is your water levels there
Do you ever travel to Va and try some fishing
Dave .hello hey do the ecat rods have stainless steele guides on them
Dave where do you get those cheep hooks I didn't see it in the video
I have said it many times and I'll say it again, "There is a reason they call it bait, lures, & rigs and it ain't got nuttin to do with the fish!" 😅👍
I am looking for more information on this ? I like to know where I can find these at I want to know on your hook
I never saw a book break. Its how sharp they are that counts.
I've not had one break but I've had them straightened out before
Catfish tremble at the sound of your boat!
How is the bottom of Cherokee lake? It doesn’t look like your getting hung up there like Ft Loudon
What are those orange things floating in the water? Is a bobber? If it’s not a bobber what is it and what’s it do?
What are your thoughts on your boat? Would you recommend it if someone was thinking about buying one. What range do you get with the 6 gallon gas tank?
Thanks and love your videos
My go too hooks are gamakatsu octopus 10/0 J hooks ! Little pricey but have never let me down !
Great video,how long are the white Berkeley E cat rods you are using ?
I personally don't like bent eyes. When you snell them you get less "trigger" action. They do catch fish just like any hook just a few will pop on you.
That brand also makes a big river hook
How fast are you dragging?
Brand name means name brand prices
I prefer Eagle Claw hooks. They're not real expensive but they are still decent hooks.
Those hooks are good they just dull out really easily
Brand don't mean anything I usually use what cheapest eagle claw is usually what I use. I will check these out though