While fast action may be hard to come by during the spawn on the Red River, catfish are hitting on fresh baits as the water warms. DEO Photo by Brad Durick.

By Brad Durick

Water temperatures on the Red River are nearing 80 degrees this week and many of the flow’s catfish are now on the nest or getting ready to spawn.

This week fishing has been spotty in most areas with lack of current to hold fish and make them predictable, as most sections of the river are in or nearing spawn. Numbers of smaller catfish are being caught with a few bigger fish mixed in. This is not what many anglers like to hear, but it’s that time of year.

The Drayton stretch is still producing prespawn fish more than some other areas but is also showing signs of the spawn. Best baits have been fresh options to attract hunting fish. As the water temps creep into the 80s you may want to start using some frozen bait to extend the scent trail. Remember the hot days could make for a night bite as well. Keep fishing and it will come together.

As has been the norm this year, the river remains extremely low and caution should be exercised when boating (especially below dams) to ensure the safety of you and your equipment.

Brad Durick is a Dakota Edge Outdoors Contributing Writer and a licensed ND Fishing Guide specializing in trophy catfish on the northern Red River.