Brad Durick of Brad Durick Outdoors give us his latest report on fishing the Red River on June 4th, 2024
Red River Fishing Report: 6-4-2024
Hello from the Red River! As we kick off 2024, the fishing conditions here have been nothing short of perfect. The catfish are particularly responsive, making this an exciting time for anglers in the area.
Current Fishing Conditions
The catfish have been very active, responding well to a variety of baits. Whether you’re using suckers, gold eyes, worms, or any other type of bait, the fish are biting very well. This is especially true around the Grand Forks area and further North. This has been where I’ve been focusing my efforts.
Where To Find Fish On The Red River
When looking for the best spots to cast your line, focus on areas with current seams or small holes. These spots seem to be particularly effective during the current pre-spawn period, which is going strong. With higher flows “softer” or flat water will be holding more fish.
Recent Weather Changes
As I’m writing this, there have been some heavy rains upstream, leading to flood warnings in some areas. While it’s uncertain how these conditions will affect fishing in the long term, I don’t anticipate a significant disruption in the Northern Red River Valley. The flooding might slow down the catfish activity temporarily, but since we’re still in the pre-spawn phase, I expect the fishing to bounce back quickly.
Gear and Bait
- Bait: As mentioned, catfish aren’t too picky right now. Feel free to use whatever bait you have on hand—suckers, gold eyes, or worms.
- Gear: Standard cat fishing gear should suffice. Ensure your setup is suitable for the size of catfish you’re targeting, especially if you’re aiming for some of the bigger ones.
Techniques
- Location: Pay attention to the water’s flow and structure. Current seams and small holes are your best bet.
- Timing: With the ongoing pre-spawn, now is a great time to fish. The catfish are more active and likely to bite.
Safety and Regulations
Always check local fishing regulations and weather updates before heading out. Safety should be your top priority, especially with the recent heavy rains and potential for flooding.
Conclusion
The start of 2024 has brought fantastic fishing opportunities at the Red River, particularly for catfish enthusiasts. Despite some challenges posed by recent weather changes, the outlook remains positive. So grab your gear, choose your bait, and head to the river for some of the best catfishing this season. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there’s big fish waiting for everyone. Come over and enjoy the bounty that the Red River has to offer! Happy fishing!
