Night catfish fishing
Night catfish fishing
The wels catfish is a crepuscular and nocturnal predator. Its peak activity hours are between sunset and dawn. Night fishing therefore multiplies catch chances, while offering a unique atmosphere. On the Lot at Aiguillon, night catfish fishing is a common and allowed practice, provided you respect regulations and good practice.
The private pontoon of Gîte du Martin Pêcheur is a prime spot for night sessions. At the Lot-Garonne confluence, 2-metre-plus catfish hunt actively after nightfall. Hamid, your host, regularly organises night fishing and knows the most productive slots. The nearby lodge allows resting between takes or extending the session until dawn. An unforgettable experience for any catfish angler.
What you need
Discreet lighting (red head torch)
White light spooks fish. Use red or green light for handling. Avoid directing light towards the water.
Light or sound bite alarms
Essential for waiting sessions. Models with LED and alarm alert you without constant monitoring.
Rods and reels suited to the task
Same equipment as daytime, but check everything works. Well-set drag, knot-free line. At night, mistakes are less forgivable.
Warm clothes and insect repellent
Nights on the Lot can be chilly. Bring a jacket, thermos. Insect repellent for summer nights.
Unhooking mat and measuring equipment
For handling the catfish safely. Quick measure, photo, release. A wet mat protects the fish's mucus.
Rigging and practice
Check regulations
Night catfish fishing is allowed on the Lot. Consult the Lot-et-Garonne Fishing Federation and local association regulations. Some zones or periods may be regulated.
Set up before nightfall
Arrive late afternoon to locate the spot, prepare equipment and cast setups. Once night has fallen, limit movement and noise.
Choose the technique
Live bait, breakaway, fireball or lure: all work at night. Live bait and breakaway are best suited to long sessions. Clonk and lure require more attention.
Manage lighting
Turn off lights except when necessary. Use red for handling. On a take, light sparingly so as not to spook the catfish.
Handle and release
Once the catfish is out, place it on a wet mat. Quick photos, measure if desired. Release holding it facing the current until it swims away. Minimise time out of water.
Practice this technique with us
Gîte du Martin Pêcheur, on the Lot at Aiguillon, is the ideal base camp for night catfish fishing. The private pontoon gives access to the Lot-Garonne confluence, where 2-metre-plus catfish hunt after nightfall. Hamid, your host, regularly practises night fishing and can accompany you. The lodge a few metres away allows warming up or resting. 12 to 24 hour sessions are possible; lodge comfort makes the experience pleasant and memorable.
Book your stayCommon mistakes
Lighting too bright towards the water
Direct white light on the water can spook catfish. Use indirect lighting, red or green, and only when necessary.
Forgetting bite alarms
Without an alarm, you risk missing takes or letting a catfish drop the bait. Alarms are essential for waiting sessions.
Not preparing for the cold
Nights on the Lot can be chilly, even in summer. Bring warm clothes, survival blanket and thermos. Discomfort reduces vigilance.
Prolonged handling
A catfish out of water too long suffers. Prepare the mat, camera. Measure and photograph quickly, then release without delay.
Your questions about this technique
Is night fishing allowed on the Lot?
Yes, night catfish fishing is allowed on the Lot. Check the local association regulations for any restrictions (zones, periods).
What are the best hours for night fishing?
Dusk (7-10pm) and dawn (5-8am) are often most productive. Deep night (11pm-4am) can also produce. Test according to conditions.
Do you need special lighting?
A red or green head torch is ideal. Avoid white light directed towards the water. Bite alarms with LED suffice for monitoring.
What technique to prefer at night?
Live bait and breakaway are best suited to long sessions. Clonk and lure also work but require constant attention.
Is the lodge close to the fishing spot?
Yes, Gîte du Martin Pêcheur has a private pontoon directly on the Lot. You fish a few metres from the lodge. Hamid is available to advise you.