Imagine a sport that relies solely on touch and instinct. A sport that allows you to connect more intimately with the natural environment by using only your bare hands. A sport that allows you to immerse yourself in the local waters of catfish holes to gain a deeper appreciation for the big catfish ecosystem. A sport known as catfish noodling. Unlike traditional options in how fish are caught, noodling requires minimal equipment and no boat, making it a simple and cost-effective method to put food on the table.

Noodling is one of the oldest recognized fishing methods in the country. It was first documented in 1775 by Irish immigrant, James Adair. He wrote of different Native American tribes catching catfish by hand in the rivers around South Carolina. Noodling was later picked up by Scottish immigrants who used a similar method of hand-catching called “tickling.”

Noodling’s popularity peaked in the US during the Great Depression when it became the easiest way for poor and struggling families to put fresh food on the table. The sport’s downfall due to the decline of spawning catfish populations. Noodling fish during breeding seasons and growth cycles slowed or stopped natural reproductive cycles. In addition, many noodlers drowned while attempting to fill their freezers with catfish, so noodling was made illegal in all but four states (Meateater.com).

Different state legislations began to recognize the legitimacy of noodling and the deep roots the sport had within fishing culture. Between 2001-2018 twelve states legalized the practice. As of 2025, 17 states allow noodling with various restrictions (U.S. Fishing and Wildlife Service).

First things first- familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including size limits and catch limits, to ensure that you are complying with the law and helping to promote sustainable fish-catching practices. It is essential to consult local fish and wildlife agencies or access official fishing guides and regulations to understand specific rules. In certain areas, such as reservations or tribal lands of Native Americans, catfish noodling may be allowed as part of traditional catching practices or cultural heritage. Permission from the local tribal authority may be required.

Make sure your first attempt at noodling is with someone who has experience. Noodling is not without physical hazards (sharp objects such as rocks, branches, or broken glass). Additionally, underwater creatures like snakes, snapping turtles, or even alligators may also inhabit the same areas as catfish.

Before entering the water, carefully assess your surroundings. Avoid areas with swift currents, submerged obstacles, or signs of dangerous wildlife. Be cautious of deep water, poor visibility and sudden changes in weather when noodling in natural waters such as the Mississippi River, South Carolina lakes, or West Virginia ponds. 

During spawning season (spring and summer when the water is around 70 degrees) catfish can be found in holes near the bank, beneath washed-out boat ramps and old culverts. Because of the potential dangers of putting your hands blindly into underwater holes, Meat Eaters recommends building and placing boxes in the water, so you not only know where to look for catfish, but you’ll also have control over the situation.

The first step in catfish noodling is locating the hiding spots of large catfish in water that is up to waist deep. Look for underwater structures like logs, rocks, or submerged debris. Carefully explore crevices with your hands, feeling for any signs of movement.

Keep your fingers loosely curled to avoid injury. Gently wiggle your hand aroundto mimic the movements of prey. A catfish’s powerful jaws and sharp teeth are used as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened. Wear gloves and other protective clothing to minimize the risks. Catfish take time to bite, so patience is key.

When a catfish latches onto your hand, you need to react quickly but carefully. Maintain a firm grip on the catfish’s lower jaw or gill coversto secure your hold. Use your strength and leverage to slowly pull the catfish out of its hole. Maintain control of the fish while keeping your arm and body positioned for stability. Once you have the catfish fully exposed, carefully lift it out of the water and onto dry land.

There is no accurate record of how many people die from catfish noodling, but it is estimated that at least 1-2 deaths occur each year. (upicefishing.com). Noodling is not for the faint of heart. It poses a unique physical challenge that tests strength, agility, and underwater skill, in a challenging environment.