Pelagic catfish fishing from the bellyboat has become incredibly popular in recent years. And we completely understand why. You are agile, maneuver precisely above the fish, and have direct contact with everything happening beneath you. Thanks to modern live sonar and electric motors, it is easier than ever to locate active catfish and target them effectively. From small canals to large rivers and vast lakes: this is a spectacular and effective way to pursue Europe’s largest freshwater predator.
In this blog, we explain how pelagic catfish fishing works, what gear you need, which bait works best, and what safety considerations to keep in mind.
What is pelagic fishing?
Pelagic fishing means you don’t fish on the bottom but actively chase fish moving freely through the water column. Using your fishfinder, you locate individual catfish and present your bait almost directly above the fish. This allows for very precise fishing, and you can often even see live how a catfish reacts to your bait.
This technique is especially strong from the bellyboat. You sit close to the water, are whisper-quiet, and can effortlessly hover above the fish with an electric motor. This makes the bellyboat perhaps the ultimate platform for modern pelagic catfish fishing.
The right bellyboat setup
A good preparation starts with a stable and practical bellyboat. Choose a model with sufficient carrying capacity so you have comfortable space for your fishfinder, battery, electric motor, and the rest of your gear. The bellyboats and electric motors from Float Plus are specially designed for this, with the motor mounted under the bellyboat for maximum maneuverability.
Almost every serious catfish angler now fishes with an electric motor. This allows you to easily correct for wind and current and stay exactly above the fish. A fishfinder with live or forward-facing sonar is invaluable: you not only see the fish but also immediately follow how it reacts to your bait.
Finally, ensure an organized setup. Mount your gear logically, keep your pliers and unhooking tools within reach, and secure your battery firmly. The fewer loose items on board, the safer and more enjoyable your fishing experience.
Gear: what to look for?
For pelagic catfish fishing, use a short but powerful rod about 1.80 to 2.10 meters long. The rod must have enough backbone to control large catfish but also be sensitive enough to present your bait nicely. Check out our catfish rods for models specially built for this purpose.
Pair that rod with a sturdy baitcasting or spinning reel from our reel selection. A strong drag and sufficient line capacity are important so you can safely fight truly big fish. Braided line is the standard: most anglers choose a diameter between 0.35 and 0.45 mm, combined with a strong nylon or fluorocarbon leader. Depending on the water, finish with a heavy single hook or a combination of treble and single hook. Ready-made catfish leaders make this extra easy.
Don’t forget a good unhooking plier, gloves, spare leaders, and a sturdy landing cord. You can find all these fishing accessories in our webshop and Experience Center. Especially with large catfish, these accessories make the difference between a safe landing and unnecessary risk.
Bait: lures, bloodworms, and teasers
Pelagic fishing offers plenty of bait options. Lures are by far the most popular: large shads between 18 and 30 centimeters are favorites and can be presented both slowly and actively above the fish. With subtle movements, you keep the bait in the danger zone for a long time. In our catfish lure category, you’ll find a wide selection of shads and swimbaits in these sizes.
Bloodworms also remain incredibly effective. A large bunch of bloodworms spreads a lot of scent and vibrations underwater and can make the difference on days when the fish are less active. Teasers are also increasingly used: they create extra movement and visual attraction, causing curious catfish to rise more quickly.
Want the best of both worlds? Fish with a teaser combined with a large bunch of bloodworms. This way, you benefit from both the visual stimulus and the scent and taste trail. Especially in waters with high fishing pressure, this combination often results in extra bites. You’ll find everything for this fishery in our catfish assortment.
Clonk fishing with the clonk
A technique that perfectly complements pelagic fishing is clonk fishing with a clonk. The characteristic sound on the water surface activates curious catfish, which rise from deeper water layers.
Clonk fishing requires practice: the right rhythm and stroke determine whether you produce a nice “clonk” or just a splash. Once you master the technique, it’s an extremely effective way to entice even passive fish to bite. Combine clonk fishing with your fishfinder, and you’ll often see catfish actually rising toward your bait. This makes the fishery extra spectacular.
Safety first
Because you sit close to the water in a bellyboat, safety is extremely important. Always wear a well-fitting life jacket, even if you are an experienced angler. The weather can change quickly, and you can never fully rule out unexpected situations.
Check the weather forecast beforehand, pay attention to wind strength and current, and store your phone waterproof. Bring a sharp knife and an emergency whistle, and let someone at home know where you will be fishing. If you’re going onto a large or unfamiliar body of water, it’s best not to fish alone. With good preparation, you can enjoy a wonderful fishing day with peace of mind.
The best spots
Pelagic fishing is especially successful in waters where catfish actively move through the water column. Think of deep river sections, large sand extraction lakes, reservoirs, and wide canals.
Use your fishfinder to search for individual fish or schools of whitefish, as hunting catfish are often nearby. Pay extra attention to slopes, deep channels, bridges, and obstacles. Above all, keep actively searching: pelagic fishing is a dynamic fishery where mobility is rewarded.
In conclusion
Pelagic catfish fishing from the bellyboat is one of the most spectacular ways to target this impressive predator. By actively searching, fishing precisely above the fish, and using the right gear, you significantly increase your chances. Whether you choose large shads, a bunch of bloodworms, teasers, or a combination: ultimately, it’s all about confidence in your approach and continuing to search for active fish.
Want to learn more about this amazing fishery? On July 25, our store friend Hessel will be present at the FlohPro Experience Center in Apeldoorn. He will tell you everything about pelagic catfish fishing from the bellyboat, show various gear, and gladly answer all your questions.
Curious for more tips and practical experiences? Then also listen to our podcast
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