If you’re looking to take your fishing adventures beyond the traditional rod and reel, the South offers some of the most exciting and unconventional ways to land a catch. From bowfishing under the stars to running trotlines for monster catfish, these alternative fishing methods provide adrenaline-pumping experiences and big rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to try something new, here’s your guide to the best hands-on fishing techniques in the South.
1. Bowfishing: Hunting Fish with Precision
Bowfishing combines the skill of archery with the thrill of fishing. Using specialized bows and barbed arrows, anglers target invasive species like carp and gar in shallow waters. This method is particularly popular in Southern states with expansive lakes, rivers, and coastal estuaries.
Best Places to Bowfish in the South:
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Mississippi River (Mississippi & Louisiana)
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Lake Guntersville (Alabama)
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Florida Everglades
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Texas Gulf Coast
Pro Tip: Bowfishing is best done at night with high-powered lights illuminating the water, making it easier to spot fish.
2. Noodling: The Ultimate Hand-Fishing Challenge
For those who prefer a more primal fishing experience, noodling—also known as hand-fishing—is as intense as it gets. Anglers search for catfish hiding in submerged logs and riverbanks, then use their bare hands to wrestle them to the surface.
Best Noodling Spots in the South:
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Santee Cooper Lakes (South Carolina)
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Red River (Louisiana)
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Tennessee River (Tennessee & Alabama)
Safety First: Noodling can be dangerous due to potential encounters with snapping turtles, snakes, and deep water. Always go with a buddy and wear protective gloves.
3. Jugging: A Simple Yet Effective Catfishing Method
Jugging is a laid-back but highly productive way to catch catfish. Anglers tie baited lines to floating jugs and let the current carry them. When a jug starts bouncing, it’s time to reel in a big one.
Best Southern Waters for Jugging:
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Mississippi River (Mississippi & Arkansas)
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Lake Okeechobee (Florida)
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Kentucky Lake (Kentucky & Tennessee)
Pro Tip: Use different bait types on multiple jugs to see what the catfish are biting best on that day.
4. Trotlining: Set It and Forget It
Trotlines are long fishing lines with multiple baited hooks, perfect for catching large catfish. This passive technique allows anglers to set their lines and return later to haul in their catch.
Best Locations for Trotlining:
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Arkansas River (Arkansas)
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Toledo Bend Reservoir (Texas & Louisiana)
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Chattahoochee River (Georgia)
Know the Rules: Many states have regulations on trotlining, including the number of hooks allowed and where they can be set. Always check local fishing laws.
5. Cast Netting: The Art of Throwing for Baitfish
Cast netting is a skillful way to catch baitfish like shad, mullet, and minnows, essential for other fishing methods. Anglers throw circular nets that spread out and sink before being pulled back in, trapping fish inside.
Best Cast Netting Locations:
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Gulf Coast beaches (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida)
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Inlets and estuaries (Georgia & South Carolina)
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Large freshwater lakes (Tennessee & Arkansas)
Pro Tip: Practice your casting technique on land before heading out to maximize your catch efficiency.
The South offers a diverse range of fishing experiences that go far beyond traditional angling. Whether you’re stalking fish with a bow, wrangling catfish by hand, or setting juglines on a lazy afternoon, these alternative methods bring excitement and adventure to every trip.
Looking to try one of these techniques with expert guidance? Check out our Venku-guided trips to book your next hands-on angling experience!