Crazy sport ‘noodling’ sees anglers using their arms as bait to lure catfish

LONDON - A new sport that sees anglers using their arms as bait to lure enormous catfish from their lair has emerged in the form of ‘noodling’.

The sport has become an Internet sensation, after films showed the noodlers inserting their arms into the catfish’s lair and then dragging it out, with the fish still clinging on to the human flesh by its teeth.

At times the fight between man and fish can be violent, as the fish, which can weigh up to 60lbs, is too heavy to haul to the surface.

“Most noodling takes place in shallow water,” the Daily Mail quoted Tim Jones, who is an active noodler in the southern states of America, as saying.

“Catfish make their nests where they feel safe. During spawning season, in spring and summer when the water temperature rises to about 80 degrees you’re likely to find catfish in their nests because they seldom abandon their eggs.

“Once you locate a promising spot, you’ll want to barricade any possible escape routes, using rocks, old logs or your noodling buddies.

“Next, test the hole by poking it with a stick. Experienced noodlers can feel the difference between a catfish, a snake or a turtle or a beaver.

“If your stick says it’s a catfish, go ahead and jam your hand in the hole. Sometimes you can do this without putting your head underwater,” he said.

Jason Cook, who runs the angling website fishingloft.com, said catfish noodling is considered to be dangerous, as people have drowned, lost their fingers, and suffered deep lacerations while fighting the fish.

“Therefore it’s important to wear gloves and other protective clothing,” he added. (ANI)