By Brad Durick

Here we are in 2026 and already catfishing on the Red River. It feels like this spring is taking forever, yet it is still very early for catfishing. I guess the past two years have spoiled us with warmer, stable starts to the season.

With only an outing to go on for this report, I can relay that the conditions of the Red River in and around Grand Forks are good. Water levels are stable and very fishable both from boat and shore. Water temperatures are in the low 50s and currently holding to falling, but relief should be here on the weekend to turn that around.

Catfish are biting but are very lethargic with the cool water temps and consistently cool days and cold nights. The best fishing is out of the current and off the first drop off to the channel. For shore anglers, this is typically a 15-to-20-yard cast to get over from the bank. Sit on the spots for 25 to 45 minutes to let the fish find the bait. If you get in the right spot, you will see many bites and eventually a hook up. The fish are right on the edge of taking off. I have done this a long time, and they just need a little heat to put them in the mood, then hang on!

I have not tried a variety of baits yet, but it appears that everything is getting interest.

If you’re looking to connect with a trophy catfish, my season starts soon, and I am currently taking bookings beginning May 10 and on through the summer.

Brad Durick is a Dakota Edge Outdoors contributing writer and a licensed ND fishing guide specializing in trophy catfish on the Red River in and around the Grand Forks area.

Featured Photo: Almost Go Time!  With cool waters to start the season, catfish are a bit sluggish, but longer sit times will produce good fish, and the action should heat up as the water warms. DEO Photo by Brad Durick.