I make 4-6 trips a year on the CT river north of Hartford so I am by no means a knowledgeable "river rat". When I do go, I am chasing shad, stripers, or smallmouth and have not gone specifically to catch catfish. That said I have seen many cats on just about every trip. Most are in the 2-5 lb range and I have seen a few that are close or beyond 10lb.

If I were chasing them, I would launch at the Barber street (base of 291) launch. I would fish the deep spots around the 291 bridge. For a five year old, I would use whatever outfit he is most comfortable with as long as it was loaded with no lighter then 6LB test and no heavier then 12lb. (8-10 lb test is probably best). A simple set up of a hook (maybe a number 4) above a bank sinker (1/2 oz to 3oz) depending where and when your fishing. I would use chicken gizzards or chunk fish bait. If they are around, I don't think they would be too fussy. I would work north (very carefully) looking for quiet water about 4-6 feet deep. Be advised that the CT River north of Hartford is very shallow and very rockey. It can be a chore finding a lane to get up river within site of the I 91 Bridge. As you head north from the 291 Bridge the river bottom is mainly silty mud. As you head north it gets less silty and more bottom of small rocks with lots of plants along the edges. I have always had the best luck around and north of where the Farmington/Loomis school enters the CT River.

All that said, I were taking a five year old out to catch catfish, I would probably go to Lower Bolton Pond on Route 44 in Bolton. It is easier fishing, has lots of small (1/2 lb- 1lb) cats and enough in the 2-5lb range to make things interesting. If you would like the 3-4 spots on this 80 acre or so pond that holds the cats, PM me your phone number and I will call you one evening and give you the exact locations.

Take lots of pictures and don't forget to bring plenty of drinks and snacks.

Best of luck,

MikeV