Catfish and Carp season

[RyanDR]

When is the catfish and carp bite worth fishing? I'm up in MA and the water is still pretty cold. I would be fishing in a river. Also any tips for choosing spots? I have a jon boat so I can pick any spot. Sadly no fish finder as of right now. 

[Bruce424]

Carp bite should be alright now 

[countryboy65]

I just went cat-fishing for the first time this year yesterday in the Mississippi, Missouri Illinois area.  Only had two bites but the first was a thirty seven pound blue, the other i missed but I think it was bigger yet.   I'm sure were you are fishing is quit a bit different, but i would look for a fairly deep hole where they can get out of the current.  An eddy, slough, something like that.  What kind of catfish are you after? 

[RyanDR]

35 minutes ago, countryboy65 said:

I just went cat-fishing for the first time this year yesterday in the Mississippi, Missouri Illinois area.  Only had two bites but the first was a thirty seven pound blue, the other i missed but I think it was bigger yet.   I'm sure were you are fishing is quit a bit different, but i would look for a fairly deep hole where they can get out of the current.  An eddy, slough, something like that.  What kind of catfish are you after? 

Just channel catfish. On a relatively slow river. 

[MassBass]

I remember in 2012 I grinded it out early spring but didn't get a carp until March 30th. I have been bass fishing lately not carping. But I think when the buds are on the brush and trees the carp will start their feeding.   

[IndianaFinesse]

Late may through july is debatably the best time to fish for carp and catfish.

[N Florida Mike]

My philosophy is any time.Fish have to eat to survive no matter what time of year it is.

[Bluebasser86]

50 degrees is kind of the magic mark for getting the catfish active, 55 if you're after flathead.

 

Carp I have no idea but I've seen them in water so shallow their backs are sticking out and it's only in the low 50's here.