Night Catfish Fishing Middletown PA River Trip

Night Catfish Fishing Trip - Susquehanna River

Captain Jeremy's got the perfect setup for your after-dark catfish adventure on the mighty Susquehanna. When the sun goes down and most folks are heading home, that's when these whiskered beasts really start moving. You'll be fishing from a solid 16' Weldcraft that's built for these waters, and trust me - there's nothing quite like the rush of setting the hook on a big channel cat under the stars. This isn't some crowded party boat deal either. It's just you, your fishing buddy, and Captain Jeremy working the best catfish holes around Middletown.

What to Expect on the Water

Your night starts at 7:00 PM sharp from South Union Street in Middletown, right when the river starts coming alive. You've got two options here - a solid 4-hour trip for $300 or stretch it out to 6 hours for $400. Both are private charters, so you're not sharing space with strangers or dealing with someone else's loud music. Captain Jeremy knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got all the gear dialed in. We're talking quality rods, fresh tackle, and a livewell to keep your catches happy and healthy. The boat's equipped with everything you need, including proper lighting for night fishing and safety gear. Kids are welcome, but they'll need to keep those life vests on the whole time - safety first out here. One thing to remember is you'll need your Pennsylvania fishing license before we push off. No exceptions on that one, but it's easy enough to grab online if you don't have yours yet.

Techniques and Hot Spots

Night catfishing is a whole different game than daytime angling, and Captain Jeremy's mastered the art. We're targeting structure where these cats like to prowl - deep holes, current breaks, and rocky ledges where the baitfish stack up. The Susquehanna around Middletown has some prime real estate for channel cats, especially the deeper pools downstream from the dam. You'll be using circle hooks with fresh cut bait, and sometimes we'll throw in some stink baits that really get their attention. The key is reading the water and understanding how these fish behave after dark. They're way more aggressive at night, moving into shallower areas to feed. Captain Jeremy's got the electronics to mark fish and structure, but a lot of it comes down to experience and knowing where to position the boat. We'll anchor up on productive spots and work multiple lines, keeping things quiet and letting the cats come to us. The livewell system keeps your catches in great shape, so whether you're planning a fish fry or catch-and-release, everything stays healthy.

Channel Catfish Deep Dive

Channel catfish are the bread and butter of Susquehanna night fishing, and for good reason. These guys can grow massive in these waters - we're talking 10 to 20+ pounders that'll test your drag and give you a real workout. They're built like underwater bulldozers with those signature whiskers that help them navigate and hunt in murky water. What makes them so exciting to target is their feeding behavior. During daylight hours, they're pretty lazy, hanging out in deep holes and structure. But when darkness hits, they become aggressive predators, moving into shallower areas to hunt. The best action typically happens from late spring through early fall, with summer nights producing some of the most consistent results. Water temperature plays a huge role - once it hits that sweet spot around 70-80 degrees, these cats really turn on. Channel cats have an incredible sense of smell, which is why those stinky baits work so well. They can detect scent trails from amazing distances, especially at night when they rely more on their chemical receptors than sight. What anglers love most about channel catfish is their fight. Unlike some fish that give up quick, a good channel cat will make multiple runs, testing your equipment and skills. They're also excellent eating if you decide to keep a few for the table, with firm white meat that's perfect for frying or grilling.

Time to Book Your Spot

This top-rated night fishing experience fills up fast, especially during peak catfish season. Captain Jeremy's built a solid reputation around Middletown for putting clients on fish and providing a safe, professional experience on the water. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to try something different or a beginner wanting to learn the ropes, this trip delivers. The private charter format means you get personalized attention and can fish at your own pace without worrying about other anglers. Plus, there's something special about being on the river at night - the sounds, the cooler temperatures, and that electric feeling when your rod tip starts dancing. The Susquehanna River system is renowned for its catfish populations, and this stretch around Middletown consistently produces quality fish. Don't miss out on what could be your best fishing story of the year. Give Captain Jeremy a call and lock in your dates while the prime spots are still available.