Are there catfish in Hong Kong reservoirs and how do I catch them?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

Ah, the elusive **catfish**! Yes, Hong Kong's reservoirs are home to these whiskered wonders, and catching them can be quite an adventure.

First, let's talk about *where* to find them. Catfish in Hong Kong are often lurking in the depths of reservoirs such as Tai Lam Chung and Shing Mun. They love hiding amongst submerged structures and vegetation, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting prey. These bottom-dwellers are more active during the evening or after a nice rain, as they prefer cooler, darker conditions.

### Gear Up!
To increase your chances of landing one of these slippery characters, you'll want to tailor your setup. A medium-heavy rod with a sturdy reel is ideal. Your line should be strong, somewhere around 15-20 lb test, to handle the weight and fight of a sizeable catfish.

**Circle hooks** are a great choice for catfish, as they tend to set themselves when the fish takes the bait. You can find a good selection of these hooks in the [Circle Hooks Fishing Hooks 2X Strong Set](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7828G35?tag=tacklenet-20) on Amazon.

### Tempting the Taste Buds
Catfish are not particularly picky eaters, but they do have a preference for *smelly* baits. Chicken liver, cut bait, or commercial stink baits work wonders. You can also try using live baits like worms or small fish.

For rigging, the classic **Santee Cooper Rig** is a time-tested method. It involves a slip sinker, a leader line, and a float to keep your bait just off the bottom where catfish feed. Here's a [great catfishing rig setup](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CBKNCV45?tag=tacklenet-20) to help you get started.

### Technique & Timing
When it comes to technique, patience is key. Cast your line into likely hiding spots and let it sit. Catfish are curious and will eventually come to investigate. Be ready for a strong, steady pull, not a quick nibble.

In terms of timing, as mentioned earlier, night fishing can be particularly productive. However, if you're venturing out during the day, focus on deeper waters or shaded areas.

### Learn From the Pros
If you're keen on seeing some catfishing action in Hong Kong, you might enjoy the video "[Catfish in Clear River - Hong Kong Lure Fishing](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFm0B0UdnFo)" on YouTube. It provides some great insights and tactics that might just give you the edge you need!

So grab your gear, pack some patience, and head out to the reservoir for a fun and rewarding fishing experience. Happy fishing, and may the catfish be ever in your favor!

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