The bite is hot for big catfish on the Red River as the spawning activity has cooled off. Most baits are working and cats are utilizing current seams along inside bends. DEO Photo by Brad Durick.

By Brad Durick

My what a difference a few days can make for catfishing on the Red River. We went from sluggish fishing with a big fish from time to time to GAME ON! Big fish are biting fast and often. Right now, the fish are on fire and it really does not matter what the bait is.

The water has come up some from Grand Forks and north, meaning there is a lot of current and floating debris so you will want to be very careful with that. The best areas to fish are out of the current, such as on the back of inside corners. The catfish are running the break lines in those locations. You will need at least five ounces of weight to hold.

It appears the spawn in over or at least on hold for now. Many fish are out and willing to play. Take advantage. July 9th is the new Scheels Catfish Classic Tournament at MB Johnson Park in Moorhead, MN. This is a brand-new one-day event. Entry free for teams of up to three anglers is $120. You can sign up online at www.i29classic.com.

Brad Durick is a Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and licensed ND fishing guide specializing in trophy catfish on the Red River in and around Grand Forks.