Quote Originally Posted by Hlleonard View Post
I'm also not a catfisherman but recently I have gotten interested in it...problem is I have 40+ years of not bothering with learning anything about the sport ...Hook size and type, line size and type are some of the things I don't know ...Any advice would be appreciated ...About the only thing I'm sure of is when your line gets tight and he tries to steal the pole your supposed to jerk then start reeling, or I think I'm sure about that.
As with any species, size of fish available and area fishing will all affect equipment, but I'll try to give you some basics.

Hooks: Bigger fish need bigger hooks. A variety of circle hooks, j-hooks, and trebles all have their place and time. Just make sure they are strong. I tend to avoid the bronze trebles as they are generally weaker. I like Eagle Claw brand in all of the above. They are inexpensive, strong (if you avoid bronze), and generally made in the USA. I determine hook type by method of fishing, fish size available, and type of bait. Fish under 10 lbs, I use j-hooks or trebles. I have trouble hooking up with circles on smaller fish, although I am experimenting with smaller hooks and thinner wire this year. I mostly fish the Ohio River from a boat, so I use circle hooks 99% of time, whether I am drifting or bottom-fishing. I use j-hooks when smaller fish are present so I can use a hook-set. Remember, you do not "cross their eyes" with a circle hook...just lift the rod tip and start reeling. The circle hook will find it's way to the corner of the mouth. The bend in the rod and the weight of the fish will set the hook. This makes it a good choice for kids.

Line: Any good mono will work, pick your favorite. Mine is Berkley Big Game. If fishing for monster cats, or in heavy current, 65-100# braid is the most popular option. My favorite is 65# Power Pro.

Rods/reels: Can't go wrong with 7'-8' Ugly Stiks for starting out. Reels need to have good drags and ample line capacity. Zebco 808's are great if all you catch are smaller cats (up to 20#). I like round levelwinds such as C-3 Ambassadeur 6500's or BPS's CatMaxx reels. Saltwater spinning reels are good choice also.

All the above is just my 2 cents. Others will like different brands and methods and all will work. Shoot me a pm with where and how you plan to fish and I will try to be more specific.

Joe