Embarking on an adventure slightly off the beaten path, a small, dedicated group of anglers, including myself, have been pioneering the pursuit of the formidable Wels catfish through fly fishing in UK waters for nearly five years. This endeavour has not only introduced a thrilling new aspect to the UK fly fishing scene but has also challenged us to match wits with some of the most robust freshwater fish found in our lakes.

The Equipment for the Challenge

Targeting these leviathans requires specific gear; a 10 to 12# fly rod is essential, with the choice depending on the size of the catfish in the venue. For specimens up to 50 lbs, a 10# rod suffices, while anything larger necessitates a 12# setup for better control, especially around obstacles like islands or underwater snags. These rods, capable of handling formidable saltwater species like Tarpon and Marlin, are paired with Cortland’s pike/musky compact floating fly line, matching the rod’s weight, and a robust 50+ lb fluorocarbon leader, tailored to the venue’s depth.

Unlike pike, with their razor-sharp teeth, Wels catfish possess velcro-like teeth and crushing pads, necessitating heavy fluorocarbon leaders to prevent line chafe rather than cuts.

The Art of Fly Selection

Initially, standard pike flies were my go-to, equipped with super-strong, barbless hooks. However, observing and understanding these top predators—far from the bottom-feeding scavengers some might assume—has led to innovative fly designs tailored to their diet. Whether mimicking frogs, toads, various baitfish, or even ducklings, our approach is to “match the hatch” creatively, adapting our strategy to the local food sources and fishing at varying depths based on the time of day or night.

Noteworthy patterns developed in our quest include the Catford fly, the Catomic frog, and the Silt Surfer, each proving its worth by landing significant catfish over the years.

The Thrill of the Hunt

Learning to target these magnificent fish with a fly rod has been a personal mission, embracing the challenge with a blend of enthusiasm and perhaps a touch of madness. The experience of stalking catfish by night, casting to the sound of them feeding on the surface under the moonlight, is unparalleled. The anticipation, the heightened senses, the adrenaline rush when the line tightens—it’s all part of the allure.

The battle with a Wels catfish is a test of strategy, strength, and equipment, requiring a quality fly reel with a robust drag system to withstand their powerful runs. The technique I’ve dubbed “Flat Roding” helps in gaining control during the fight, making the encounter with these giants an exhilarating experience.

Expanding the Adventure

Taking the challenge a step further, we’ve ventured into float tube fishing for catfish at night—an exciting progression that offers a unique perspective on these powerful adversaries. Teamwork becomes crucial here, especially when landing these behemoths from a float tube, demonstrating the importance of planning and collaboration.

For those intrigued by this unconventional approach to catfishing, I encourage you to dive into the “dark side” of fly fishing, where preparation and adaptability meet the thrill of the chase.

Stay Connected

For more insights and adventures in fly fishing for Wels catfish, follow my journey across social media platforms:

• Facebook: Oliver Cullingford
• Instagram: olly_catfish_fly_guy
• YouTube: Ollie On The Fly https://www.youtube.com/@ollieonthefly7592/videos

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, the world of fly fishing for Wels catfish offers an exciting frontier to explore. Welcome to the dark side of catfish on the fly—where passion meets the pursuit of the ultimate freshwater predator.