The Truth About Catfish Rods

Discussion of the Catfish rod market today

[@jameswise5003]

When I was a kid my dad said, "Son, sometimes fishing lures are made to catch fisherman." Total life hack!

[@stubby8663]

Same thing as my Dad told me "Well it caught the Fisherman, but we've yet to see it catch a Fish" I don't remember if I ever did catch anything on that rubber frog lol.

[@collincolston8443]

I thought you were going to say you just need 3 rods and that leaves you plenty of money for cheese.

[@kodyhouse8432]

I’ve been beating the hell out of my mad katz rods for about a year now And they are holding up great, some have got a few scrapes and scratches but I’m very tough on my gear. Despite being drug through the woods and sand and bounced around in the back of the truck, they still look very sexy as well. Customer service has been great, and I won two free ones in the big fish contest. The reason they are the most popular is the way they engage their customer base, they make an effort to make us little guys feel like big shots. There’s no substitute for that. I’m am a katz customer for life. Thanks for making an unbiased video and keeping it real like always Dave! That’s why this channel will always be one of my favorites, Catfish Dave always keeps it real.

[@Sneeezzyy]

Madkatz rods are always out of stock now whisker seeker rods are where it’s at

[@venturesyndicate]

After 1 hour of listing to my favorite youtuber about rods I summed it up for you guys! Use wtf you want. All rods catch big fish! Saved everyone 1 hour😉

[@SMaamri78]

Thanks!

[@dboyMMA7100]

Exactly

[@931tow]

I confess I am attracted to the colored rods but it doesn't influence my decision to watch your videos. I know those rods fade quickly. I'm happy with my Berkeley Big Game Rods from Walmart for $29. Been using them for 2 years now on Watts Barr with no problem. Dave does need to get a boat seat endorsement deal 😂

[@charlesschillinsky102]

Great discussion Dave! I have numerous rods that predate graphite. They are glass but they are still standing up to heaving use.

[@pdm1289]

Great content that conveys information fisherman need to catch more catfish. Thanks Dave!

[@flyingfisherman9076]

Another great video Dave! Great minds think alike. I'm not a groupie and my boat isn't the runway for a fashion show. My Ugly Stik Tigers aren't pretty and they are probably the furthest from what the general catfish community would specify as a "Catfish Rod," but here in Eastern Virginia many of the experienced charter captains on the James wouldn't have any other rod. My Tigers just keep working and doing what I need. I only hope they keep making them because as a company, their other models seem more aligned with the Walmart market. The Tiger models are still out there because they work, and continue to sell without all the gimmicks and shortcuts. The investment they made in this rod long ago is making them great profits.

[@lutherprince9304]

Great information Dave! No brag just facts!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@jeffchaffee1235]

That’s right I don’t use a pretty rod but I do watch the Catfish Dave show. Thank you for your time on the water

[@johnolive3377]

Another no BS show and I like it. Keep it going from the guy in Texas. Thanks for the information.

[@davidgrochmal6023]

I have 4 rods from the 60s that are solid fiberglass that I refinished all over again and these rods have a solid rock maple or hickory wooden handles too me these are the best rods ever made !!!!! Now they look fantastic just like new !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@bobbydennis6231]

Hey Dave, Rods are in the eye of the beholder. In my opinion. I'm not a brand specific guy. I do use rods that fit my budget. And they produce fish of all sizes. From dinks to above average fish. Length, weight, backbone, tackle capacity, and sensitivity all come into my decision when making a rod purchase. With that being slaid. Berkley Big game medium heavy 7' is my go to rod. New viewer to your channel. I enjoy your content. Keep it up .

[@strawberryjam6174]

Just watched and enjoyed your video. I enjoy your no BS reviews. Im sure you know much more about this than I ever will but I use B&M Silver Cat Elite Rods which are perfect for my needs and size fish I catch. I use the lite and MH which are E-glass composite. But they make one called the Silver Cat Elite Heavy that is E-glass and rated for 25-60 line and 2-16oz lures that might be similar to the Berkeley E Cat you like but biggest difference is they are colored and “ pretty “!!!

[@doubleccatfishing]

Hands down best video you ever put out! Nothing but truths and a good history of past 7-8 years

[@Magaeatsboogers]

For me the OLD School Red Cork at the end of his page is a great looking rod, 7'6 thanks for the heads up.

[@lelandshanks3590]

Alot of good points Dave, I build my own and have for 42 years. The bid boys don't spine the blanks it makes all the difference in performance.

[@chuckfinley3152]

It literally takes 2 seconds too

[@dennisembry3161]

One of your best videos explaining Rods

[@scottmorrison1788]

Great video Dave, very informative that I actually learned something about catfish rods. Really enjoy your work, keep it going.

[@robertkreachbaum4546]

Loved your video Dave. Thanks for sharing your sharing your thoughts and insights regarding the various catfish rods out on the market today.

[@chriskeenumhighhopesoutdoors]

Good to see you back!!! Hope you have a great year👍

[@chadbrunett264]

You just educated me on the difference type of rods. I always wonder the difference between the glass and carbon fiber. Thanks Dave you are my favorite when it comes to catfishing!!

[@thomasallen3030]

Good info thanks for taking the time to try and teach us. Good video!

[@scottkissinger5763]

Great content thx for all your hard work Dave tight lines

[@michaelkrugman2459]

Great video Dave!! I'm really glad you did this topic,and gave your true opinion and points of these rods. I often wondered about some of these brands and how good they actually are. Thanks again and keep up the great videos.

[@robertwinslow391]

This is a great video, very educational. Thanks Dave.

[@jackkeeble9272]

Thank you for sharing Dave, love your channel man

[@tomblount5635]

Luv your vlogs, straight forward and knowledge! Txs 🎉🎉

[@CH-xo8ss]

You heard it here @ berkleyfishing, bring back the E Cat and throw a little fluorescent orange or Florescent yellow thread on the guides and don’t change anything else!! Thanks Dave for the honest reviews!!

[@pisgahwatershed7287]

Yeah what he said !

[@dennisdaly1957]

WOW....I never thought of it that way. Thank you for all the info and by the way, love your videos. Great content and very informative. Thank you again for your effort.

[@jeffmartin9033]

Thank you making a educational video, much appreciated!

[@russhayes4882]

What a great video Dave and very informative !

[@danieljenkins6282]

Loved the video Dave. Definitely no BS stuff in what you say about rods. I would love to see you start a series on cheap rods, just regular 30 40 50 dollar rods from bass pro, walmart, academy, dicks places like that. Just to see what you could do with rods like that for fisherman just pounding the bank once or twice a month. Just an idea. Really appreciate the videos, keep catching em

[@marylikens6847]

Thanks for helping get me into catfishing.. been fishing since I could walk but am just now getting into cats at age 37. Haven’t caught anything yet, but I got my stuff on its way. Won’t be long now until I can try out my new tangling with catfish 7’6 ext . Grubbs recommended these rods. Feels light and strong but doesn’t look that flashy

[@markdavis1363]

Great video about catfish rods,very educational and informative. I'm just the weekend angler and I fish the paylakes and the Ohio river banks. I love my ugly stick bbw rods and my Shakespeare tidewater reels. Lol I'm a poor boy,but I do enjoy the tackle I can afford and I do land a 40lb every now and then. Catfish Dave,your one of my idols in fishing,lol.

[@johnmeyer6537]

how many people remember when ugly stix where guarantied for life. I have one purchased in the late 70s that still catching giants. 65lbs pb

[@josephcain8643]

I love how you teach as you catch

[@davidworthy3352]

Very informative video thanks Dave

[@patcolston2901]

Great video Dave !!! Very informative

[@user-xm3ij4jo5g]

Thank you for good explanations. I always want to know the why behind whatever it is you're doing and/or using.

[@trevorv5648]

Yes!! Loved the long form vid.

[@madtownangler]

Those grippy material rod handles are easy to replace. Just cut it to length and heat up and it shrinks. I use to use a stove top to do it.

[@fredziffel3443]

You talked me into buying E-cats a couple of years back... they're still in the shed until I wear out my uglystiks. Looks like I may never use the ecats.😅😂

[@pisgahwatershed7287]

Want to sell them ?

[@contagiouslyfit1021]

I knew before long I'd get a planer board explanation. Comments get lost. You answered me either way. Thanks Dave

[@blueridgeboy7721]

Man I'm so glad I watched this video because for the last few weeks I've been going down the rabbit hole over some new fishing rods and catfish Dave sir you nailed it on the head. Thankyou so much. I'm after a fish of a lifetime.i had a hookup/miss two weekends ago about 330 am on a 9 inch rock bass. Yes it still hurts because it actually hit an I missed it twice on a cheap (china)glass rod. Never again for me. I'm way to passionate about it, I've always wanted to catch a big one an I'm not f**king around. I've always said to many rods was a bad thing. I've always sad when I was solo fishing 4 was enough. But I only have 3 c3s with me at a time. Definitely curious and interested in the chasing cat rods. Simply because if I ever get the chance at even a decent 40/50 lb fish let alone a monster I don't wonna screw around an loose it. Thankyou for your video.

[@tammykifer5176]

As always good information I take care of my stuff so it lasts longer and I have my favorite 🎣 pole

[@JeffinLowerAlabama]

Dave great video. Have found that keeping your hooks sharp really improves hook ups. Jeff in LA USA

[@user-rf7ru9fc7y]

Dave, You need your own "Reality Show"!! You would do well with it! Keep up the good work and keep making great videos. Your videos are informative and amusing. You're a natural in front of the Camera. You will need to write a script send it to the Writers Gould get your copy write and confirmation than you can approach cable channels with your show idea TLC or Animal Planet might be your best bet,

[@Leo-vf3py]

Great show keep up the good work be safe my friends God bless all

[@DillonVolts]

Thank you for blessing me with an hour long video Dave 😅

[@paulwylie989]

Informative and entertaining CD

[@nicklong2733]

Great info Dave 👍

[@kennethwatson4489]

I know you were not impressed with the meat hunter rod you had. But the 9 foot 1 piece rods they make are such a sweet spot from long casts to good hook sets. I have them from 6 to 16 feet. And I know there are other rods. But I have tried everything imaginable in 45 years of fishing, and the meat hunters are consistent. TOUGH all glass rods. I don't work for them either. I just love them. Casting or spinning. They have been great

[@roypeavy3542]

Great video 👍 thanks for sharing.

[@tykit9230]

Thanks for the honest assessment Catfish Dave. I'm a bank fisherman in Dinkville, Ugly Sticks are fine by me

[@davidnickle9831]

Thanks for the Great Info Dave 🐬

[@IEchuckie]

You're almost to 90k. Congratulations

[@Nathan-gj6ic]

Wow I never knew there was so many differences between fishing rods thanks for letting me know

[@timothykarnes7945]

Ugly stick tiger rod has held up very well over the years . fantastic rod as well.. thanks for sharing about rods dave...

[@ethanevink4255]

Good honest review Dave

[@michaelglenn8598]

I like RGFM motto match tackle to what you are reasonably gonna catch. Makes each catch a way better experience

[@yazooyellowcats1403]

I have had great success with medium heavy action B'n'M rods, Flathead Fever Tackle circle hooks and mono line. The softer tip has enough give for fish not to feel resistance at initial bite to fully take the bait. The Flathead Fever Tackle circle hooks do a great job of hooking and fish that fully takes the bait with only having to reel down to put full tension on the line whether I am anchored, dragging baits, or suspend fishing.

[@davefisher5196]

My buddy bout some M/H hellcats n returned them as they were more like a light/ medium rod I like the TWC M/H. Glad I caught the 92lb blue on it. Great back bone but not great for videos on smaller fish.

[@tmac6593]

Try their whip series. They are nice for smaller fish. But still has plenty backbone for bigger fish

[@Nwbama]

Like your content Dave!

[@countryfriedfishing]

Sixgill Fishing has a Glass/Carbon Catfish rod at $90+$10 shipping. The Carbon is Japanese Toray Carbon.Thats stuffs pretty tough. While I havnt caught as big as Dave I only use their bass rods but I use them for everything. Catfish,Bass,Bowfin,Bream,,,,everything. My biggest cat is a 25-30 pound blue,”scale broke at 30 so I say 25-30”, on a MH and it handled it. Pulled it out of the current and assisted the net on the lift.

[@OhioRiverFisherman]

I have several older ecat rods and theyre wonderful!!! I also found some awesome ugly stick rods that ive fished with for 4 years now. And ive caught some hawgs on em and they still look brand new!!

[@rondoofnightmare775]

I use ugly stick, madkatz, and fire stick. Out of the 3 I prefer the ugly stick. Madkatz is actually a decent rod too.

[@bernaduskailemakurfishing]

Greetings coming from Indonesia Greetings fellow anglers and Thank you senior for the excellent viso and educating us about fishing equipment, namely jorang as the main equipment for anglers

[@RealMakoi]

Very good market analysis, and lessons in practical use. But, I think you overlooked one important aspect of fishing rods that I have made a habit of. Most guys are only going to go fishing with 2 or 4 rods, and only use one at a time. But, 2 or 4 rods aren’t really enough for all the types of fish, and fishing you’re gonna do. I buy Ugly Stik rods. There’s plenty of variety in strength. I probably have 15 Ugly Stiks. The most important part is that they’re all the same color. And, that’s the part you forgot to mention. Your wife is going to go for years thinking that you’ve only got 2 or 4 rods!

[@flyingfisherman9076]

Listening to this channel will catch you fish!

[@marcsmith1413]

Was watching this video got down to the 57.34 mark and bam hooked into and landed a 40.84lb flathead on my bass pro shop cat buster medium to heavy action all white 110 dollar rod rod 😉

[@terrycrosby9149]

Enjoyed the content you're rite you can fish on about any fishing combo and yes some are definitely better than others, I've never worried about pretty just performance.

[@tonyjones9715]

Thanks Dave👍

[@memloss62]

Great video Dave. Question.... dont you Snell your circle hooks anymore? in this video your hooks arn't snelled or so it looks like.

[@RiverJunkie]

Solid information here.

[@dboyMMA7100]

You change rods almost every video. Still enjoy watching. Lmao

[@Lexiisstrange]

Love the channel and the info. Keep waiting to hear the word pilgrim worked into normal speech.

[@Mike_Baldwin]

Came for the Catfish Dave video ~ Got a Roland Martin lesson on fishing rods.

[@samshearer6955]

Another good video, I almost skipped it when I saw the length though. You didn’t mention two pieces versus single piece rods?

[@anthonysmith3741]

Hey Dave how about some of your old school night videos. You caught a lot of big fish . I really.enjoyed those

[@dannyhardy7395]

Great video, Bro

[@buckeyecatfishing622]

I put the heat shrink wraps on all my cork handle rods. The cork handles start breaking down after use in the rod holders.

[@MySORRELL]

THANKS!

[@bethunelm]

Yep, Dave, they got me. Have the orange one that you have. I also have a Mad Katz Venom rod.😂😂😂

[@naughtydorf18]

Lot of cat anglers in my area are tackle tarts. When I launch before the crack of dawn, I see lot of em with their Mad Cat and Slime Cat rods with same ole drift rig with walking sinker and rattle float rig. And they either have a pontoon boat or Sea Ark boat. I catch just as much cats as they do from my 10ft jon boat with old Kmart "rod riot" rods. For bank fishing though, I use a slightly higher price tag carp rod.

[@lkn635]

That was some calm water in the vid,,when ypu gonna hit Lake Norman Dave?

[@Xofroggy]

I use an old berkley Big Game rod, and a couple of the new built Big Game Rods

[@thomase6787]

Heard you mention the James, when you gonna make a road trip? I live about 10 minutes away and have been fishing it for about 30 years. I mostly focus on flatheads but I’ve caught a few submarine sized blues before.

[@olhippie1]

Seems like the ugly stick "Big Water" ought to be right up your alley Dave ! It has backbone for big fish but has a fast enough tip section to give cushion to a fish's surge to prevent hook tear out. I think the Big Water is a glass & carbon fiber combination , but am not sure on that.

[@Yelladog78]

Best compromise for all around rod catfishing - meat hunter

[@Blb51]

The surge rods i use look just like those ecats, looks like the action performs like it also.

[@cynthiareed2081]

Hi Dave, Cindy from LOS ANGELES,CALIF

[@stumpbumpers]

I use saltwater rods because I think they are more bang for the buck without all the hype. I can buy some really cheap boat rods that out perform expensive “catfish” rods. I’ve always laughed at the “catfish” market because in comparison to the “saltwater” market, they are light years behind. I still have some Diawa “Beefstick” rods from the late 90’s. I bought them for $30 each. They run about $50 each today. But I like Tica in the same price range for carbon. Anyway, the reels are the real investment in my opinion. Those too are saltwater for me, for the same reasons and they are serviceable. I guess growing up on the coast helps, because I have surf fished since I was a young and I have a collection of old Penn, Abu Garcia, Mitchell, etc. The biggest, hardest fighting fish are in the oceans. So, if you want long lasting, better quality for your money, saltwater gear is where it’s at IMHO.

[@allaboutthebenjamins2781]

What about tangling with catfish? I got 2 and I like em.

[@gregdorey3394]

A very good analysis of fishing rods. I might be part of the masses, but I want the most value for my money. So Dave, what's the best value for your hard earned dollar?

[@markmcconnell604]

What's your opinion of yhe rods Chris Flores at muddy river catfish puts out? I have one of his flathead and bluecat rods. I've caught my fair share cats over 30 pounds but nothing to much over that. I fish mostly N.M. which is why I bought these, not to mention I really like them. I'm just curious if you've met Chris and had the opportunity to get a hands-on of these rods?

[@barry8458]

Hey Dave..I use circle hook’s exclusively but not catfish…from 1 pounds and 200 plus…I snell every hook and found the hookup ratio outcome is better…I can understand about that tooth patch..some of the fish I’ve dealt with has hard portions of their mouth that’s not penetratable…nice cats though 👍🏼…BTW IS X-heavy 30-60 lbs ?

[@rgutomo8141]

come and listen to the excitement my friend, from indonesia

[@bjhayes7155]

Dave I live in Armstrong ia the car fishing her is mostly Chanel cats whut wood be a good rod to use

[@bradleysmith5883]

What do you think about a wrapped fiberglass rod?

[@reedbrothersracing]

You trust just tying a knot on each end of the spook ? I broke one open the eyes are not attached on the inside just molded into the plastic and it was not hard to break. I been running the line all way threw the eyes and taping it in place !