This is one over several trophy channel cats I caught and released on a trip to Manitoba's Red river.

This 61 pound flathead was caught near dense submerged brush. Prespawn males often cruise spawning areas defending territory or looking for mates and will take a well placed bait.

This flathead was caught following several fishless nights. Not exactly trophy class but a flathead none the less.

This 40+ flat is photographic proof that flathead will tear theirselves off of limblines. He was still hungry and felt compelled to take a goldfish set out on a Penn 209 reel and big fiberglass rod.

As the water cooled in the Fall, I was able to tempt this 44 with a large bluegill. This cat also was subdued with a Penn 209 combo.

The air temp and rain did not keep us from Fall fishing. Air temperature drops and water temperature is slow to respond. Flathead must feed hard in Fall to gain weight to survive the winter.

This 45 pound flathead also ate a large bluegill presented near submerged timber.

I almost forgot about a trip I took to the James river in Virginia.

Mike Magis learned how much fun blue cats are.

And I caught a James river monster.