Growing Catalpa Trees for Fishing Worms

Catalpa trees (often called "catawba") don't "bear" worms—they host the caterpillars of the catalpa sphinx moth. These caterpillars are prized fishing bait. Not all catalpas attract moths equally; some are heavily infested yearly, others rarely.

How to Get a "Wormy" Tree

• Source Matters: Collect seeds or dig seedlings from under a tree known to host caterpillars. Genetic or chemical traits may make certain trees more attractive.
• Planting: Catalpas grow fast in full sun, moist soil. They tolerate a range of conditions but prefer deep, rich soil.
• Patience: Trees may take 5-7 years to reach size enough to support caterpillar populations.

Managing for Worms

Avoid insecticides. The caterpillars defoliate the tree but rarely kill it; the tree releafs. If you want maximum worms, don't spray. The moths lay eggs in spring; caterpillars feed through summer.

Resource

See the Urban Forestry South publication on catalpa and worms for detailed biology and management.