Catfishing Rod and Reels: Affordable and Proven Trophy Catfishing Gear

In this video I talk about my favorite fishing reel for catfishing. The Cat Maxx reels are affordable and dependable bait casting reels that I have used in catfishing for over 10 years with great success. I also talk about my go to catfishing rods, Tangling with catfish brand. Watch as I take you step by step in the installation of the McCoy braided fishing line to the spool on the cat maxx reel and how to adjust the reel properly so it doesn't back lash when its cast out.
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[@jerrynewman1380]

I bought my first catmaxx reel in Cincinnati in 2002..sure did...I fished lake Cowan in Wilmington Ohio...I loved it....it was give to me for a birthday present by my wife...those be were my best fishing years..

[@jerrynewman1380]

@Mark Reeves Mark I drifted up to Ohio in 2001 and was just roaming the country east to west and found Wilmington and Clarksville just by roaming....lake Cowan was so much fun ...so I bought a pontoon boat and just fished everyday....I stayed 2 years and when I left and came back to Georgia I missed the north and was sad I left...I made many friends and learned a lot from them good people....I was actually headed to Montana but lake Cowan just got a hold on me...I love to fish and I took two years off work and just done exactly that....I'm 20 years older now and still fishing...

[@lec74]

Steve, you have no idea how much I just learned by watching this video....not to mention the countless others that you've taught by this one video. I watch and re-watch you and Kris Flores on a daily basis. Thank you for what you do!

[@richardhilbert9965]

I can't thank you enough Steve, the fishing tips that I've gotten from you are the best information that I have ever got, 63 yrs. old and been cat fishing since I was 5, & a bamboo pole, retired truck driver & doing more fishing on shore & off in a 12ft. flat bottom with a friend of mine, a lot of the info I pass on to one of my friends cause he doesn't have a internet, and he too has learned many things from what you have shown that I pass on to him, So because of your tips & advice we are catching more cat fish. Thank you for all you do to help us all in all.....

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Richard Hilbert Richard thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment. im glad you guys able to get some take aways from our videos

[@richardhilbert9965]

you bet & thanks again..

[@danielgschwind1101]

Steve Douglas The Catfish Dude I just wanna say its nice to see someone, more like your everyday fisherman not covered in sponsors doing videos. Me and my wife love them. Keep them up. thanks!

[@johnmorgan6371]

I have learned so many things from your videos and started to use your tactics for catfishing

[@satchel50207]

Love the catmaxx reels. Thanks for sharing the info with us sir. Since watching your videos I have been able to maximize my cat fish angling.

[@michaelmay1317]

Thank you for the preview I've just recently moved to NC and started cat fishing. I got a Cat Maxx Reel last year because of one of your earlier video's. I love it also. Now I just need to get a rod and ill be set for this year. Can't wait to see more. Keep up the great Work!!

[@anthonysandoval965]

love the sound of a fresh cast!

[@charliehubbard1400]

Thanks for the set up help JUST bought a new Catmaxx setup VERY helpful tip I've used spinning reels exclusively this IS my FIRST baitcaster.

[@johncornett7575]

I just bought me a set of monster rod holder Steve and you're right they're awesome very good product sturdy built never seen nothing as good as these good old-fashioned American ingenuity America craftsmanship at a good price you keep catching them and typing them I'll keep watching good luck

[@blacktopcharters7313]

Great video, Steve! I've spooled 100's of reels with braid and all you need is a quarter-sized piece of tape(any tape except Scotch tape). The braid will never slip on the spool. Good fishing!

[@waynejackson9374]

love ur videos trying to absorb all i can i dont get to fish big rivers much but i still listen so i can learn thanks for the great videos

[@appalachianfishing8548]

I've been having that spinning problem. Your the man steve I've asked alot of people that question no one seemed to have an answer

[@benjaminmills4972]

Steve i wanted to say thanks i have took sum of your advice and it has really improved my fishing great videos

[@timbrown9582]

i love my catmaxx reels just got 8 and 2 twc rods. they are a deadly combo. thanks for the videos steve keep them coming

[@OffTheCouchFishing]

Stevo I finally got my tangling with catfish and catmaxx reel today!!!! Thanks a whole bunch I hope I get to catch a few big cats like you do!!!!

[@MrDaryboy]

+thebandittransam Bo How is the reel? I noticed they relaunched the reel and it looks very different from what Steve has. What's your thoughts on it so far?

[@jessecantrell7317]

caught 4 big cats today with this combo

[@Voxguitarsrock]

I love your attitude towards other manufacturer's, not putting them down (Abu) but pointing out you prefer your equipment. Refreshing and classy. Thanks for the water seal tip on the rod handles as well I'm def. going to be using that! Cheers!

[@jeffwilliams5256]

Steve, I think I have watch most all of your videos. I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for being so down to earth and seriously wanting to help the rest of is learn how to catfish.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

thanks Jeff

[@marcoslusso2163]

Steve, this is another great video. I recently started fishing for blue cats on the James River in Virginia and had great results based on tips that I learned from your videos. We are consistently catching 40+ LB blue cats. Thanks a lot and keep it coming.

[@bradhenke7552]

Just bought a cat maxx spinning reel and a cat buster rod from bass pro today. Caught about 30 skipjack and mooneye yesterday. Can't wait to hit the river!

[@capjim5903]

Steve, I just wanted to take a minute as a newer subscriber to say Thank You for taking the time to do all that you do and not just for us fellow fisherman but for the sport it self. Life style sounds better then sport. ;) I am looking forward to all that you bring here for us and for all the insight and rekindling the things learned and forgotten about. Thank You Again God Bless Jim

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

james wascko thanks for dropping by to leave a comment james

[@ryanchambers9878]

Steve been watching ur videos for long time iv chased cat for lot of years as of yesterday I just purchased a TWC rod and new cat max reel cant wait to get them keep up good videos

[@eiyumats6218]

A nice start of video with a nice fish!

[@TheOutdoorCatch]

Good video Steve. Nice to see a good reel for a good price. Thanks for the info.

[@paulmerritt7540]

On all my new cork grips and handles I apply U-40 cork seal, a great product to harden and seal cork from fish slime, and retains its feel in the hand and reduces discoloration.

[@taylorroarkpayton]

Thanks Steve. Great video as always.

[@julielynn2830]

Yay!! I've been waiting for this video!! Your tips and tricks are super helpful. You told me about the Cat Maxx reel a few weeks ago an I LOVE it!! Definitely a good recommendation to someone who doesn't want to go out and spend $150 on a Abu Garcia 6500 when all your buying is the name and not the product itself. Keep them coming Catfish King! =)

[@brianamado4366]

One of the best fishing shows on youtube. Awesome vids! Keep em coming!!

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Brian Urias Thanks for stopping by to leave a comment Brian, we are so glad to hear comments like that. I hope you have a great season.

[@erat7638]

Steve you doing these videos is a great thing. Showing ppl how much fun CPR can be and how to do everything right so fewer missed fish. Ive learned one thing from your videos TWC rods are the way to go. Hopefully this year I might see yea in Monsters on the Ohio!

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

E Rat thanks for stopping by to leave a comment, I hope you have a great season.

[@timothymcvay7286]

Great video Steve always enjoy watching

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

thanks Timothy

[@lwhitledgeii]

A older fellow told me the spool adjusting trick right after i started using ambassador 5000's 30 years ago,, Now i use the 7000 widespool's and the spool adjustment! Nice Video dude!!

[@neciscuelibertas5363]

Thanks for the video and the tips Steve. I use an ambassadeur and I really like it. I am more than willing to give the CatMaxx a try though as I use their poles sometimes and they've never failed me before.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Thanks fro stopping by to leave a comment, I hope you have a great season

[@larrypoynter996]

Thanks for sharing Steve ... Will have to check them out the next time I vist Bass Pro Shop. I also like the Ming Yang reels you showcased a while back.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Ming yangs seem to be harder to get now days, but the cat maxx reels some great reels for the money.

[@crazydman17]

Great stuff as always Steve

[@redfestivabo259]

I bought a PB Catmaxx reel today and got it rigged with a Carolina rig. I’ve been using some Zebco spincasters. They work but I don’t know for how long. Friends were telling me to get the Abu Garcia but I figured if the catmaxx serves you well I was going with it. I caught my first flathead last fall and my first blue last weekend. I love your videos and I’m soaking up the tips . Thanks Steve.

[@catfishingislife8393]

Nice video Steve. I use the exact same setup all but the way you tie your braid on. I start out with mono

[@OffTheCouchFishing]

In stock now !!! Just ordered one today!

[@Tomcat95]

Steve your videos are the best im an avid catfisherman from tx keep em up bud

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Tomcat84 Thanks Tomcat, Im glad you enjoy.

[@dannysmith9097]

i love that rod and reel i would love to have one !

[@SappNotSap]

Hey Steve I want you to know keep up the exellent work I'm only 13 and I watch you videos and they are helping my struggle with catching fish thanks for posting these videos thanks a lot

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Thanks for watching our videos Kevin , I hope you have a great season.

[@SappNotSap]

Thank you. You too

[@TimGalati]

Thanks, Steve. This was really helpful.

[@joebarrett3612]

Enjoyed the video and I was thrilled to see your tackle box. Mine is very similar and I know I'm doing things right. I wanted to mention that if you tie your leader to the swivel first with a palomar knot, you can use the palomar knot to tie your main line. Listen to that, me telling the expert how to do things. Thanks for all the information.

[@tomw3380]

I have not used the CatMaxx but am glad to know about them. I have always used the Abu Garcia 6500s. I figure it is just what you get used to. I'll be trying to get out this weekend since the ice is gone from Indiana and the water is about 48 degrees now. Of course we are expecting some snow tomorrow. I used to love that Alabama weather when I lived there. Great video Steve. If you get a chance, a good video about muscle beds would be appreciated.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Tom Waskom thank you for commenting Tom.

[@billdavidson810]

hey steve, thanks for commenting back, sorry you been feeling bad , soon as skip jack come in i sure will be at markland dam srocking up on them , me an couple buddies are getting ready to head down towards madison to place called brooksburg, will keep you up dated on how their biting , keep the video's coming really enjoy them, get well buddy , thanks bill

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Bill Davidson thanks Bill

[@CHV1257]

Great job, I will be buying some catmaxx reels. Thank you

[@MrBrettMaverik]

Always enjoy what you are sharing. Thanks

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Brett Brannon thanks for stopping by Brett.

[@MrJoegus]

Great 🎥s! I'm not a cat fishermen, but like your 🎥s! I trout stream fish. God Bless!

[@12mileoutdoors40]

Yeah the extremes are out of stock currently, but I will email them, thanks for the advice and quick response, by the way great videos keep em coming!

[@jeffwilliams5256]

Steve, I always enjoy your videos. You seem to be a good guy shairing what you have learned. Something most guys dont do or have sold out to corporate sponsors. I have been stalled in my catfishing adventures. I have spent some time watching most all of your videos and have spent a lot of money on some gear this year (Lorance HDS7 touch & Motorguide Xi5 80) All looks a little strange mounted on my 1976 Polar Craft john boat. Anyway, I wanted to say thank you for sharing even when they are not paying you!!!

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment Jeff. I never judge a man by the rig he runs and the boat dont catch the fish LOL you made a good choice in the HDS7 and the Xi5 they should really help you locate and catch some monsters. Good luck this season

[@riverrat6105]

injoy your videos bud... I'm gonna try that cat max

[@donjuliosopinion7113]

hell yea thanks doug! im grabing me a catmaxx here soon forsure. That BLACK TaPE technique helped sooo much dude! Nice video, and nice "slingability"!

[@donjuliosopinion7113]

Donjulios opinion doug dont care about my comment cuz im some young punk huh? well actually i fish everyday! and i love the wATER. im guess im feeling down because i enjoy his videos and would love to fish with him! good luck with the channel doug! im a good guy even though i look like some young punk ;(

[@Fisherdanpro23]

Just bought mine today at bass pro shop. Can't wait to use them on the Mississippi by Alton IL!

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Fisherdanpro23 good luck

[@jimpetersen8900]

I received my extreme rod today after 8 weeks of waiting but it was well worth it.can't wait to hang a big one on it

[@edwagoner6711]

Nice video lots of good info. Thanks for sharing

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Ed Wagoner thanks fro stopping by to leave a comment Ed.

[@teamsmokinem]

I am an abu garcia man. Easy to work on am easy to upgrade. Just recently sold my first ever owed abu reel to a friend. Had it 10 years fished it every weekend . Never broke down once. All about what each guy prefers . Those new cat Maxx are looking good though. I love your vids steve. I check in daily for new vids. Tight lines bro.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

John Colwell thanks for stopping by John

[@MrBrettMaverik]

Steve, Brett here from Washington State. I can't fish with as many poles as you, however I am testing presentations, depth, ect. I loved the video where you fished for cats around barges. I learned to focus my time around barges that have been sitting for awhile. (Apposed to barges frequently moving, Now I'm catching more fish. Thanks Brett

[@jman4142]

What a great, and informative video!!

[@jacobdeleon7422]

Great video.... Always been curious on your rod and reel combo.... Oh and you should make sling your catchphrase thought it was hilarious.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

slingability! LOL thanks for the comment Jacob

[@Bulletthepony]

Nice set up. I got a Medium-Heavy Ugly Stik bait caster rod with a Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S 65000. I'm gonna try to get some video of it in action this summer.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

+The Regulator thanks best of luck to you this season

[@chucktaylor4971]

Steve I dont know if i said this but I want to thank you for saying hi when you and Kris and the guy from cats and carp was out eating before or after the catfish conference couple years back

[@3030mnd]

I got the same set up with the catmaxx and the white tangling with catfish rod last year cause of your tips and I wanted somthing I know would work and we caught strippers and cats with it at Lake Texoma pretty bad ass stuff man thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@donaldcostello491]

Good video, thinking of getting the rods

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Donald Costello thanks Don

[@brokenpockets82]

Hey Steve I'd like to see a detailed video on how you throw your front and back anchor to anchor up on fish on lakes and on the river. That would be awesome.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

brokenpockets82 we will have that this spring , reel soon, thanks for stopping by.

[@esaddurmo5323]

hello steve you are the greatest guy i ever seen i from Bosnia and i like youre videos keep going

[@AbideinChristFully]

I ordered that med heavy version of the rod and bought the reel! Thanks

[@chadabraham4251]

Where did you find the rods? Thanks

[@gabrielliss7877]

not sure if you already have but you should post a video about bank fishing a big river. I live about 15 minutes from the Mississippi river in Stl Missouri

[@sexymama314573]

Gabriel Liss i know this is late but i live in north county (jennings) always looking for a fishing buddy i am a guy (its my wifes account) ...hope to hear back from ya

[@joezuzolo9785]

I live about 5 minutes from the Missouri river, I would love to see Steve make a video on that too!

[@PeelingDragCatfishing]

Joe Zuzolo harder to find holes on bank thats why everybody wants a boat for the electronics to find the fish so it wont be a waste of time. i fish the sippi and cumberland Tn river

[@TheMooseracer96]

I love bank fishing the rivers 👍👍👍

[@ArkansasBadBoy]

Wow, I have been looking at the Abu Garcia C7000 catfish reel and almost ordered one but decided to revisit this video and am glad I did; I can get the combo you featured here for the price of what I was going to pay for just that reel. Good stuff.

[@anthonyridge2323]

Everyone is certainly welcome to their own opinions, but I definitely disagree with Steve about the Abu Garcia's. I think they are without a doubt the finest, smoothest, toughest and most reliable reels money can buy. Especially the 7000 reels, those things are built(In Sweden, I might add) like tanks!! I hope you have great luck with the Catmaxx real and the TWC rods, I am planning on picking up at least one, hopefully 2, of the Catmaxx baitcasters like Steve uses and I'd also love to have a couple of those rods as well but I am happy with the 'Meat Hunter' rods that I can get for half the price of the TWC Catfish rods.

[@davidcummings1738]

Great opening 😀

[@faronmastin8683]

Got 3 cat max reels being delivered tomorrow now got to work on getting some TWC rods.

[@Garciaboy80]

Ah new fishing poles. Bout makes ya a little giddy don't it. I have been curious about those catmaxx reels ever since I saw them in Bass Pro a few years ago. They looked like good reels but I already had several garcias so I didn't buy any. May have to get a couple any way after watching this. Can't never have to many fishin poles. Will definitely be looking into those rods though. Those are sweet. Thanks for another great vid sir.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

great products and the right price. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.

[@rustymorris7470]

Steve, I like to fish for Monster Blues on the Ohio River! Another Good Video!

[@andrewstevens9160]

Great video Steve! U ever tried the Abu Garcia ambassadeur 5600 Cl rocket reel? It sales for around 75 bucks and it's worth it! It has never malfunctioned on me and it's so smooth to cast and reel it's an amazing reel for the money I'd put it up aginst any of the fanciest reels out there! BTW it works great with the tangling with Catfish rods I've got 2 of those and I love them!

[@TheWorstmexican]

I do fresh and salt water fishing being in san diego and use my off shore penn reels on intercoastal rods for cats. but the cat max seem pretty cheap and sturdy for price I might pick a couple up. good vid!! see if they have some on sale at the fred hall fishin show this weekend!! woot woot!!

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

worst mexican thanks for stopping by to leave a comment, best of luck to you this season.

[@3RiversFishingAdventures]

Nice vid Steve. I appreciate the no nonsense approach. Biting the 50lb mono is a nice touch. :) Sometimes I see too much emphasis on the WOW factor in fishing videos and they forget the reason people are there to watch them.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Thanks,, I always like to leave my viewers with some take aways, rather than beating my chest and saying look at me and my big fish or self proclaiming pro status. I like to connect with folks and show them the real days on the water with the fish I catch whether they big or small. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment Darren

[@TheMooseracer96]

You are a humble man Steve that's the reason why I subbed AND THE GREAT TIPS 👍👍👍 lol

[@allenpatterson1070]

Steve Douglas The Catfish Dude is the monster rods any stronger than the original

[@bigahouseofpain7837]

BEEN TRYING TO ORDER THAT REEL OFF B.P. IT'S ALWAYS ON BACK ORDER.LOOKS LIKE A GOOD AFFORDABLE REEL FOR MY T.W.C. ROD. KEEP UP THE GOOD VIDS.

[@jessecantrell7317]

in stock now

[@jameskem1391]

nice clip Steve stay safe

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

thank you James

[@ZombieCleaner]

I bought a Shimano GX2 rod on sale at Walmart that's such a heavy action it's basically a broom stick. Always pay attention to how fast your rod tips are before you buy them. It's basically just for big swimbaits now unfortunately. I love the rods you use Steve, especially the cork handles.

[@corydabbs2960]

I have to say awesome I fish the ohio river a lot an it helps to have some one with more expirenc to kind of guide young cat fishermen to catch trophy fish I have used a lot of ur tricks and it has helped me a lot thank u catfish dude

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Cory Dabbs Cory thanks for dropping by to leave a comment, i hope you have a great season.

[@Joe-kb1sm]

I use a pair of Penn Peer #109 reels, w level wind for 30 years. Never a problem, except the pawl on level wind reels wears out. For monsters, I use an old Penn Squidder, non level wind #140. Caught sharks on it.

[@marshallhurt8814]

Hey Steve, great video enjoy watching it! Them are some nice reels you just got there. I saw them in the store last time was in bass pro shops. Them are some nice rods you just got too . I like its got stainless part on them not plastic that pole will last you along time. Where did you get them from ? Keep catching the biggins and keep the videos coming.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

Marshall Hurt Thanks for the support Marshall

[@KentDrumz]

Im actually gonna get a couple of these same set-ups... Keep the vids coming Steve, by the way I hope all is well with you.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

thank you kent

[@TheArby13]

Steve, great video. What size hooks and swivels are you using? Thanks.

[@andyattitude2000]

Thanks for the information, you do a great job presenting your material and I appreciate you taking the time to share it with us. I just got off the phone with the New Mexico governors office about SB226, the lady said they were getting hundreds of calls on this bill. I sure hope the Governor doesn't let it pass.

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

andyattitude2000 thanks

[@jessecantrell7317]

this reel and rod is a deadly combo.I caught a 20lb catfish last night and the fish skied across the water i was sursprise the reel has that power.

[@fuq2ho]

Hey Steve, quick question. I really enjoy your videos and live close to the Ohio River as well.. Do you ever fish the Smithland Pool area from Golconda, IL to Elizabethtown, IL?

[@jeffmgee6060]

What is the size cat max real you prefer, your videos are amazing and help educate me in catfishing... so thank you

[@brycecoffman4621]

LOL you are not sorry for catching that biggin! Haha love the videos keepum comin bud.

[@ryannewell7633]

Hey Steve where do u get ur braided line at in that big spool I wanna get some but can’t find any in that big of spool thank you for your wonderful tips

[@3thingsfishing427]

I use Windex to clean the cork handles on my rods works like a charm

[@hiddenspringknls]

I love watching your videos, very good information. Was wondering if or how I could get me one of those nice hats? Lol

[@erichull7737]

Good reels, I was skeptical as I’ve used Abu reels but just bought a Catmaxx and they cast better than my Abu 7000 and are only $69 bucks 8 years later. Lol thanks for the rigging video.

[@johnarmstrong7298]

Great video thank ypu , I got me some of those rods and reels you use ,was wandering what size barrel swivel you using with the #8 weight and what is the best size hooh 7 or 9 ?

[@conradallsworth7555]

once again thanks for an awsome video, thats all i use is cattmax reels. Steve do you not use a rubber bumper between your swivel and sinker?

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

no i dont because i use braided line and a bumper wouldn't really help as the knot slides up in the sinker and is not affected by it as it would if it was mono. I never have had an issue with breakage because of lack of sinker bumper. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment conrad.

[@alvinwine5665]

Nice ima gonna get me a cat max reel bass pro shop is only 3 miles from my house here in seffner Florida

[@GuntersvilleLakeFishing]

would be awesome to see you on Guntersville again in a future video

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

very soon matt, thanks for stopping by

[@Mntinxtreme]

I found it on your website. thanx!

[@slimnruby]

Like your video's very informative

[@olroy2006]

Steve you know when you have fished for so long and scored some good trophies when you say "that's not the one where looking for" when that's what I've been looking for haha

[@bristol831able]

great videos Steve. but can you tell me whete I can get the 65lb. line that you're using in a spool bigger the 150? thanks Mike Armstrong

[@irajamison1493]

Great video

[@SteveDouglastheCatfishDude]

thanks for stopping by Ira