When is the catfish and carp bite worth fishing? I'm up in MA and the water is still pretty cold. I would be fishing in a river. Also any tips for choosing spots? I have a jon boat so I can pick any spot. Sadly no fish finder as of right now. 

Carp bite should be alright now 

I just went cat-fishing for the first time this year yesterday in the Mississippi, Missouri Illinois area.  Only had two bites but the first was a thirty seven pound blue, the other i missed but I think it was bigger yet.   I'm sure were you are fishing is quit a bit different, but i would look for a fairly deep hole where they can get out of the current.  An eddy, slough, something like that.  What kind of catfish are you after? 

35 minutes ago, countryboy65 said:

I just went cat-fishing for the first time this year yesterday in the Mississippi, Missouri Illinois area.  Only had two bites but the first was a thirty seven pound blue, the other i missed but I think it was bigger yet.   I'm sure were you are fishing is quit a bit different, but i would look for a fairly deep hole where they can get out of the current.  An eddy, slough, something like that.  What kind of catfish are you after? 

Just channel catfish. On a relatively slow river. 

I remember in 2012 I grinded it out early spring but didn't get a carp until March 30th. I have been bass fishing lately not carping. But I think when the buds are on the brush and trees the carp will start their feeding.   

Late may through july is debatably the best time to fish for carp and catfish.

My philosophy is any time.Fish have to eat to survive no matter what time of year it is.

50 degrees is kind of the magic mark for getting the catfish active, 55 if you're after flathead.

 

Carp I have no idea but I've seen them in water so shallow their backs are sticking out and it's only in the low 50's here.