Can you show me visually how to execute the following right: For targeting Wels catfish at Chigborough Lakes using the solid PVA bag method?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

To tackle the mighty **Wels catfish** at Chigborough Lakes, you'll need a robust setup using the **solid PVA bag method**. Here's a visual guide to help you rig up effectively and land those elusive giants.

### Rig Components
- **Mainline**: Opt for a 50lb-80lb braided mainline, ensuring it's sturdy enough to withstand the force of large catfish.
- **Lead Setup**: Choose a 3-5oz inline lead compatible with PVA bag fishing.
- **Leader**: Use a 50lb-80lb heavy-duty monofilament or fluorocarbon leader.
- **Hooklink**: A 30lb-50lb coated braid or Kevlar hooklink will provide the necessary abrasion resistance.
- **Hook**: A Size 1/0 to 6/0 wide gape or circle hook, specifically for catfish, is ideal.
- **Bait**: Small yellow boilie, artificial corn, or pop-up.
- **PVA Bag**: Fill with halibut pellets, fishmeal pellets, and crushed boilies.
- **Attractor**: Enhance with fish oil or krill liquid for extra scent.

### Step-by-Step Rig Setup
1. **Attach the Mainline to a Lead Clip or Inline Lead System**
   - For an inline lead, thread the lead onto your mainline and secure it with a tail rubber.
   - With a lead clip, attach your lead securely, allowing it to release under pressure if needed.

2. **Tie on a Strong Leader**
   - Use a Palomar or Albright Knot to attach a 50lb+ monofilament leader. This will withstand the abrasion from catfish teeth and snags.

3. **Create a Hair Rig for the Hook Bait**
   - Thread a small yellow boilie or pop-up onto a hair rig.
   - Secure it with a boilie stop and attach the hook using a knotless knot.

4. **Tie the Hooklink to the Leader**
   - Connect the hooklink to the leader with a strong swivel (size 4-6). Ensure it's at least 12-18 inches long for flexibility.

5. **Prepare the PVA Bag**
   - Fill a solid PVA bag with halibut pellets, fishmeal pellets, crushed boilies, and a few free offerings of your hook bait.
   - Place the hook and part of the hooklink inside the bag, then tie it securely.

6. **Final Touches**
   - Soak the PVA bag in fish oil, krill liquid, or tuna oil to create an attractive scent trail.
   - Double-check all knots for security.

### How It Works
Upon casting, the PVA bag dissolves, releasing the pellets and hook bait into a concentrated area. Your hook bait, such as a small yellow boilie or pop-up, will stand out among the pellets, tempting the Wels catfish.

### Tackle Considerations
- **Rod**: Use a 3.5lb-5lb test curve catfish rod.
- **Reel**: A big pit or baitrunner reel with at least 300m of 50lb braid.
- **Drag System**: Ensure your reel has a robust drag system to handle those thrilling catfish runs.

For a visual representation, you may want to check out this [YouTube video on catfish rigs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkOZfsGNmbk):
![Catfish Rig YouTube Video](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NkOZfsGNmbk/mqdefault.jpg)

Additionally, consider these [PVA Fishing Bait Bags on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LQ7N5OI?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1):
![PVA Fishing Bait Bags](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/417q81cBBYL._SL160_.jpg)

Happy fishing, and may your lines be tight as you conquer those Wels catfish! 🎣

Pike & Musky Questions

More Questions

What is the best water temperature for Muskie fishing?

What should I use in a farm pond on a rainy day in Tennessee to catch a giant bass?

What fish are in Shing Mun Reservoir?

Where do I fish for perch?

Does fishing after rain make it better or harder?

What is the best topwater frog for bass fishing?

Where to fish in Singapore?

What fish species can be found in Cavandish Lake?