Catfishing Craze Is Catching On!

As fishing tackle technology evolves it becomes more specialized, and today there are rods designed specifically for one technique, a single type of waterway, or one specific species. The latest case: Okuma’s Cat Slayer and Cat Slayer Custom fishing rods.

These new-for-2025 rods are made for serious cat-fishing sharpies with several features designed for this species’ particular proclivities. The “UFR” (ultimate flex reinforced) tips are sensitive enough to detect nibbling catfish but have the strength to drag a river monster through a roaring current, E-glass blanks, double-foot welded stainless-steel guides, and aluminum reel seats with double lock-nuts maximize ruggedness. The UV-activated paint designation means these luminescent rods will be easy to watch for bites even after the sun sinks below the horizon for some night fishing.

Expanding blue catfish populations and the propensity of these fish to grow to epic proportions – the world record stands at 143 pounds – has caused a spike in their popularity among anglers, and now a newfound popularity for catfish-specific gear.

BoatU.S. Magazine set out on the Potomac River with a set to try them firsthand and see if they made any difference in the catch. Hauling in a 42-pounder proved they have the backbone to force large fish up to the boat, and we discovered that the UFR tips do indeed have the sensitivity to spot bites when fish of just 18 inches were snapping at the baits. Look at this short video from Okuma Fishing Tackle.

Cat Slayer models are two-piece casting and spinning rods in 7- to 8-foot lengths with medium to medium-heavy power, while Cat Slayer Customs are one-piece casting and spinning rods in 7-foot, 6-inch to 8-foot lengths with medium to heavy power. Maximum line-weight ratings range from 30- to 80-pound test, depending on the model. Price: $59.99/$119.99.