Best Rods for Texas Catfish Fishing

Choosing the right fishing rod for catfishing in Texas can feel like a daunting task, especially with our state's incredible diversity of waterways and the sheer size some of our whiskered residents can reach. You're not alone if you've ever stood in an aisle, staring at a wall of rods, wondering which one will truly stand up to a monster blue cat on Lake Tawakoni or offer the sensitivity needed for a finicky channel cat in a local pond. This guide is here to cut through the confusion and help you confidently select the best rod to tackle Texas's fantastic catfish population, ensuring your next battle is a triumphant one.

Understanding Texas Catfish Species and Their Fight

Before you can pick the perfect rod, it's essential to understand what you're up against. Texas is home to three main species of catfish: channel, blue, and flathead, each with its own preferred habitat, size potential, and fighting style. Matching your gear to the fish is the first step toward success.

Channel Catfish Characteristics

Channel catfish are arguably the most widespread and commonly caught catfish in Texas, thriving in everything from small ponds and urban lakes to large reservoirs and rivers. They typically range from a few pounds up to the teens, though bigger ones are certainly out there. Their fight is often described as energetic and feisty, with quick runs and headshakes. They're opportunistic eaters, often biting on a variety of baits, and can sometimes be surprisingly subtle with their takes, requiring a rod with a degree of sensitivity.

When targeting channel cats, you’re looking for a rod that can handle decent weight but also offers enough finesse to feel those lighter bites. A rod that's too heavy might make it difficult to detect when a smaller channel cat is just mouthing the bait, leading to missed hooksets. They might not be the giants of the catfish world, but they certainly put up a respectable battle, especially on lighter gear. If you're new to the sport, channel cats are a fantastic place to start building your skills. You can learn more about these versatile fish in our Texas Channel Catfish Identification Guide.

Blue Catfish Characteristics

Now, if you're chasing truly monumental fish, the blue catfish is your quarry. These are the giants of the Texas catfishing scene, capable of reaching sizes well over 100 pounds in our trophy lakes like Lake Texoma, Lake Tawakoni, and Richland Chambers Reservoir. Their fight is legendary: long, powerful runs and a stubborn refusal to give up. A big blue cat will test every ounce of your tackle, pulling with incredible strength and often making multiple powerful surges that can peel line off your reel with alarming speed.

Targeting blue cats demands serious equipment. Your rod needs immense backbone and power to turn these fish away from structure and bring them to the boat or bank. Sensitivity is still important for feeling the bite, but sheer power to handle the fight is paramount. Without the right rod, a truly large blue cat can easily snap your line, bend your hooks, or simply break you off. Understanding their immense power is crucial for selecting a rod that can withstand the abuse they dish out. Take a look at Texas Blue Catfish Identification Guide to understand what you’re up against.

Flathead Catfish Characteristics

Flathead catfish are the stealthy predators of the Texas waters. Unlike channel and blue cats, which often scavenge, flatheads prefer live bait and ambush their prey. They are solitary and territorial, often found lurking near submerged timber, rock piles, or undercut banks. While they don't grow quite as large as the biggest blue cats, they can still reach impressive sizes, often exceeding 50 pounds, with some Texas giants pushing the 80-pound mark. Their fight is characterized by a heavy, bulldogging style. They tend to stick to the bottom, attempting to wrap your line around any available structure to break free.

Fishing for flatheads requires a rod that can not only handle a heavy fish but also has the leverage to pull them out of thick cover. You'll need enough power to maintain control and prevent them from burying themselves in snags. A rod with good leverage is essential for directing their movements and prying them away from their chosen hideouts. The initial hookset needs to be solid to penetrate their tough mouths, and then the real tug-of-war begins as you try to steer them clear of structure.

Key Rod Characteristics for Catfish Anglers

Selecting the right rod involves understanding a few fundamental characteristics: power, action, and length. These aren't just fancy terms; they directly impact how well your rod performs for different catfishing scenarios.

Rod Power: Medium-Heavy to Heavy

Rod power, also known as rod weight, refers to how much force it takes to bend the rod. For catfishing, you'll generally be looking at rods described as medium-heavy (MH) to heavy (H), and sometimes even extra-heavy (XH) for the biggest blues and flatheads.

• Medium-Heavy (MH) Rods: These are excellent all-around choices, especially for channel catfish and smaller to mid-sized blue and flathead cats. They offer a good balance of sensitivity and backbone. You can cast lighter baits effectively while still having enough power to handle a good fight. If you’re targeting channels in a Texas city park pond or smaller lakes, an MH rod is often ideal.
• Heavy (H) Rods: When you start getting into the serious realm of larger blue and flathead catfish, heavy power rods become indispensable. They have significantly more backbone, allowing you to use heavier lines, bigger baits, and apply more pressure to big fish. These rods excel in situations where you might encounter fish over 20-30 pounds. They are designed to absorb powerful runs and provide the leverage needed to turn a stubborn fish.
• Extra-Heavy (XH) Rods: For the truly monster blue cats in places like Lake Tawakoni or the lower Trinity River, an extra-heavy rod is often the preferred tool. These rods are built like tanks, designed to handle the heaviest lines, weights, and the most brutal fights. While they might sacrifice some sensitivity for sheer power, they give you the best chance of landing a fish that could set a new personal best.

The choice of rod power directly correlates with the size of fish you anticipate catching and the amount of weight you'll be casting. Overkill is better than underkill when it comes to catfishing power, as you never know when a true trophy might hit your bait.

Rod Action: Moderate to Fast

Rod action describes where along the blank the rod bends when pressure is applied, and how quickly it returns to its original position. For catfishing, you'll typically find rods with moderate, moderate-fast, or fast action.

• Moderate Action (or Slow Action): These rods bend further down the blank, often through the middle or even into the lower third. This allows the rod to load up more slowly and evenly, creating a parabolic bend. A moderate action is excellent for casting heavier baits a long distance because it acts like a giant slingshot. It also provides more "give," which can be forgiving when a powerful catfish surges, helping to prevent the hook from tearing out of its mouth or snapping your line. It's a great choice for using treble hooks with cut bait or larger live baits where the fish really needs to commit.
• Moderate-Fast Action: This is a popular sweet spot for many catfishermen. The rod bends primarily in the upper half, offering a good blend of casting distance, fish-fighting power, and sensitivity. It provides a quicker response for hooksets than a moderate action rod but still offers enough flex to cushion strong runs. This action is versatile and works well for a wide range of catfishing techniques and sizes.
• Fast Action: A fast action rod bends mostly in the tip section, offering maximum sensitivity and quick, powerful hooksets. While less common for dedicated monster catfishing, a fast action medium-heavy rod can be excellent for detecting lighter bites from channel cats or for precision casting. The quick tip allows you to feel subtle bumps and quickly drive the hook home. However, the stiffer backbone means less shock absorption, so you need to be mindful of your drag settings when fighting larger fish to avoid breaking your line.

The right action depends on your fishing style, bait choice, and the expected bite. For most Texas catfishing, a moderate to moderate-fast action will serve you well, offering the best balance of flexibility and strength.

Rod Length: Longer for Casting, Shorter for Boat Work

Rod length is another crucial factor, influencing casting distance, leverage, and maneuverability. Catfish rods typically range from 6 feet to 10 feet or even longer.

• Shorter Rods (6-7 feet): These lengths are ideal for fishing from a boat, especially when targeting catfish vertically or in tight quarters. A shorter rod is easier to maneuver in a boat, allows for more direct control over the fish, and makes it simpler to net or land. If you're drifting cut bait on Lake Livingston or working a specific brush pile from a boat, a 6.5- to 7-foot rod is often perfect. They provide excellent leverage when pulling a fish straight up from the depths.
• Medium-Length Rods (7-8 feet): This is a versatile range that works well for both boat and bank fishing. An 8-foot rod can still be managed in most boats but provides significantly more casting distance than a 6-foot rod, making it great for reaching distant channels or structure from the bank. It offers a good balance of power and casting performance for general catfishing. This length is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a do-it-all rod that can adapt to various situations.
• Longer Rods (8-10+ feet): When you're fishing from the bank, a pier, or a jetty and need to make long casts, a longer rod is your best friend. The extra length allows for greater casting distance, which is critical for reaching deep channels or submerged structure far from shore. They also keep your line higher off the water, helping to clear shoreline obstacles like tall grass or brush. For bank fishing along rivers like the Brazos or large reservoirs, a 9- to 10-foot rod will give you that extra reach. However, these longer rods can be cumbersome in a boat and require more open space for casting.

Consider your primary fishing locations and techniques when choosing rod length. A dedicated bank angler will benefit greatly from a longer rod, while a boat angler might prefer something shorter and more manageable.

Rod Types Best Suited for Texas Catfishing

Once you understand power, action, and length, you can start looking at specific rod types. While many rods can catch catfish, some are particularly well-suited for the task.

Spinning Rods: Versatility and Ease of Use

Spinning rods are incredibly popular, especially for those who are just getting into catfishing or prefer a lighter setup. They pair with spinning reels, which are known for their ease of use, making them a fantastic choice for beginners.

• Pros: Spinning rods are versatile and can handle a wide range of bait sizes and weights. They are generally easier to cast, especially with lighter baits, and tend to be more forgiving of casting mistakes. The open-face reel allows for smooth line flow and easy retrieve, making them less prone to frustrating backlashes than baitcasters. For targeting channel catfish with smaller baits like worms, shrimp, or stink bait, a medium-heavy spinning rod is often the go-to.
• Cons: While strong spinning setups exist, they generally offer less raw power and torque for fighting truly massive fish compared to a heavy baitcasting setup. The line comes off in coils, which can sometimes lead to line twist over time, and they typically aren't designed for the heaviest lines required for trophy blue cats. However, for most common catfishing scenarios, especially for channel and smaller blue/flathead cats, a good quality spinning rod performs admirably. Many anglers find excellent, affordable spinning rod options at retailers like Bass Pro Shops.

For the casual angler or someone looking for an all-around catfish rod, a medium-heavy to heavy spinning rod in the 7-to-8-foot range with a moderate-fast action will cover a lot of bases across Texas waters. This setup is perfectly capable of landing many respectable catfish.

Baitcasting Rods: Power and Control for Big Fish

Baitcasting rods, paired with baitcasting reels, are the choice of many serious catfishermen, especially when targeting trophy-sized blue and flathead catfish. They offer superior power, control, and precision for heavy-duty applications.

• Pros: Baitcasting rods are built for brute strength. They are designed to handle heavier lines, larger sinkers, and substantial baits. When fighting a big fish, a baitcaster provides superior leverage and cranking power, allowing you to control the battle more effectively. The direct line pull from the reel spool means less line twist and more precise drag adjustments. For punching through thick current on the Brazos River or pulling a giant blue cat out of deep water in Lake Texoma, a heavy baitcasting setup is often the most reliable choice. They also offer more casting accuracy for experienced anglers, which can be crucial when trying to place a bait near a specific piece of submerged structure.
• Cons: Baitcasting setups have a steeper learning curve, primarily due to the potential for "backlashes" or "bird's nests" if not cast correctly. They are generally not as effective for casting very light baits and can be less forgiving for beginners. However, with practice, the control and power they offer make them indispensable for serious catfishing.

A heavy to extra-heavy baitcasting rod, often 7 to 9 feet in length with a moderate to moderate-fast action, is the preferred tool for dedicated trophy catfish hunters. Brands like Ugly Stik and Berkley offer robust, affordable options suitable for the demanding nature of Texas catfishing.

Specialty Catfish Rods: Built for Abuse

Beyond general spinning and baitcasting rods, many manufacturers offer rods specifically designed for catfishing. These rods often incorporate features tailored to the unique demands of pursuing these powerful fish.

• Features: Specialty catfish rods typically feature robust blanks made from durable fiberglass or composite materials, which offer immense strength and resistance to breakage. They often have oversized, heavy-duty guides and reel seats that can withstand powerful runs and heavy lines without failing. Handles are often extended for better leverage during a fight, and some may even feature glow-in-the-dark tips for night fishing. The construction is designed to be tough and durable, standing up to the harsh conditions that catfishing can sometimes entail.
• Benefits: These rods are purpose-built, meaning every component is optimized for catfishing. You get a rod that’s designed to handle heavy weights, powerful fish, and the wear and tear of being bumped around in a boat or on the bank. While they might not be the most aesthetically refined rods, their performance and durability for catfishing are often unmatched. If you're serious about targeting large catfish regularly, investing in a few good specialty catfish rods is a wise decision. You can often find a wide selection of these specialized rods, including options from brands like Catfish Sumo or Rippin Lips, by browsing online retailers like Amazon or visiting larger fishing tackle stores.

These rods are an excellent investment for anyone committed to consistently landing big cats and who needs gear that can take a beating and keep performing.

Matching Your Rod to Your Fishing Style and Location

The best rod isn't just about the fish; it's also about how and where you fish. Your preferred technique and location will heavily influence the ideal rod choice.

Bank Fishing and Casting

Bank fishing is a classic way to target catfish in Texas. Whether you're casting from the shore of a reservoir, a riverbank, or a public pier, the ability to reach distant fish and handle obstacles is key.

• Longer Rods are Key: For bank fishing, longer rods, typically 8 to 10 feet or even more, are highly advantageous. The extra length provides significantly more casting distance, allowing you to reach deep channels, submerged structure, or current breaks that might be far from shore. This is crucial when you can't get directly over the fish. Longer rods also help keep your line elevated, reducing snags on shoreline vegetation, rocks, or other debris. Imagine casting across a wide bend in the Trinity River; that extra foot or two on your rod makes a world of difference.
• Heavier Power, Moderate Action: A heavy or medium-heavy power rod with a moderate or moderate-fast action is usually preferred. The moderate action helps load up heavy sinkers and baits for those long casts, while the power ensures you can effectively fight a large fish from a distance, especially if it tries to run into snags. You’ll be able to drive the hook home effectively and control the battle, even with a lot of line out. A robust reel seat is also vital to keep your reel secure during powerful casts and strong fights.
• Rod Holders are a Must: When bank fishing, you’ll often set multiple rods. Sturdy rod holders are essential for protecting your gear and ensuring you don't lose a rod to a powerful bite. You’ll want a rod that balances well in these holders and can withstand the sudden strike of a big blue cat.

For detailed information on getting started, you might find our guide on How to catch catfish from the bank particularly useful.

Boat Fishing and Vertical Jigging

Fishing for catfish from a boat offers different advantages and requires different rod characteristics. You have the mobility to cover more water, access deeper areas, and position yourself directly over the fish.

• Shorter Rods for Maneuverability: When fishing from a boat, shorter rods, typically 6 to 7.5 feet, are much more practical. They are easier to handle in confined spaces, make it simpler to fight fish directly below the boat, and are less likely to get tangled with other lines or boat components. If you're drifting cut bait over humps in Lake Conroe or targeting suspended blue cats on your fish finder, a shorter rod gives you precise control.
• Strong Backbone for Direct Fights: Whether you're anchoring over a prime spot or slowly drifting, boat fishing often involves fighting fish directly beneath you or very close to the boat. This requires a rod with strong backbone to lift and turn the fish quickly, preventing it from snagging on the motor, anchor line, or other underwater structure. A heavy or medium-heavy power rod with a moderate-fast to fast action is often ideal for quick hooksets and powerful lifts.
• Special Considerations: For vertical jigging or bumping bait along the bottom, a rod with a sensitive tip but strong backbone is excellent for feeling subtle bites in deep water. The shorter length also allows you to make quick, controlled jigging motions. If you're running multiple rods from your boat, consider the overall length and how they will fit into your rod holders.

Many anglers use different rod setups for boat and bank fishing, recognizing that optimal performance varies greatly with the fishing platform.

Trotlines and Juglines

While not traditional rod-and-reel fishing, trotlines and juglines are very effective methods for catching large quantities of catfish in Texas. While you're not actively "fishing" with a rod, you'll still need one for setting, checking, and potentially battling fish that are still very much alive when you pull your line.

• Robust Utility Rods: For setting and checking trotlines and juglines, you need a robust, heavy-duty utility rod. This isn't about casting distance or sensitivity; it's about brute strength and durability. You'll be using this rod to apply leverage, pull up heavy lines, and wrestle potentially very large, angry catfish off the hooks. A shorter, very stiff, heavy-power rod (often 6-7 feet) is ideal. It needs a strong blank and oversized guides to handle heavy mono or braided mainlines that are often used for trotlines.
• Durability Over Finesse: Finesse is not a concern here. You want a rod that can take a beating, get wet, and still perform. The reel seat needs to be rock solid to hold a heavy-duty reel capable of winching in big fish. Fiberglass rods are often preferred for this application due to their incredible durability and resistance to nicks and scratches.
• Safety First: When checking trotlines, especially those with large catfish, safety is paramount. The rod gives you a safe distance and leverage to handle powerful fish. It's an indispensable tool for managing these lines effectively and safely. For those looking to explore these methods, understanding the rules is critical. Check out Texas Trotline and Jugline Rules and How many hooks can you legally use on a jugline for regulatory information.

Even if your main passion is rod-and-reel, a utility rod for trotlines and juglines can greatly enhance your catfishing efforts, especially if you're trying to put some serious fish on the table.

Care and Maintenance of Your Catfish Rod

Your fishing rod is an investment, and like any investment, it needs proper care to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Catfishing can be tough on gear, so a little maintenance goes a long way.

Cleaning and Storage

Taking care of your rod after each trip prevents premature wear and keeps it ready for the next adventure. This is especially true for those who chase catfish in saltwater areas or brackish rivers where corrosion is a constant threat.

• Rinse After Every Use: Even if you've only been fishing in freshwater, dirt, grime, and fish slime can build up. After each trip, give your rod (and reel!) a thorough rinse with fresh water. Pay special attention to the guides and the reel seat. If you've been saltwater fishing, this step is absolutely critical to prevent corrosion. A gentle spray from a hose or a wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Avoid high-pressure sprays that could force water into delicate reel components.
• Gentle Cleaning: For more stubborn grime, use a mild soap and water solution, then rinse thoroughly. Use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) to clean around the guide feet and reel seat. Ensure all soap residue is removed.
• Dry Thoroughly: Allow your rod to air dry completely before storing it. Hanging it upside down can help any residual water drain out of the guides. Storing a damp rod can lead to mildew on cork handles, corrosion on metal parts, or even weaken the blank over time.
• Proper Storage: Store your rods horizontally or vertically in a rod rack. Avoid leaning them against a wall for extended periods, as this can cause the blank to warp. Keep them out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can damage the blank and components. If you have a multi-piece rod, consider storing it in its original case or a soft cloth sleeve to protect it from scratches and dings. Proper storage isn't just about aesthetics; it maintains the rod's structural integrity and performance.

Following these simple steps will significantly extend the life of your catfish rod, ensuring it's always ready for action.

Inspecting Components

Regularly checking your rod's components can catch small problems before they become big, trip-ruining issues. This is especially important for rods that get a lot of use or are frequently pushed to their limits by large fish.

• Check Guides: The guides are crucial for line management and distributing stress along the rod. Before and after each trip, run your finger along the inside of each guide ring to check for cracks, nicks, or rough spots. Even a tiny imperfection can fray your line, leading to unexpected break-offs. Also, ensure the guide inserts are still securely seated in their frames. If a guide is damaged, it's best to replace it or have it repaired.
• Examine the Reel Seat: The reel seat holds your reel securely in place. Ensure that the tightening mechanism (usually a screw-down hood) is working smoothly and holding the reel firmly without any wobble. A loose reel can be incredibly frustrating and can lead to damage to both the reel and the rod. Check for any cracks or stress points, especially if you regularly cinch your reel down tight.
• Inspect the Blank: Give the rod blank a visual inspection for any deep scratches, gouges, or hairline cracks. These can compromise the rod's strength and lead to breakage under load. Pay attention to areas where the rod might have been bumped or flexed excessively. A small crack can rapidly propagate when fighting a big fish.
• Handle and Butt Cap: Check the cork or EVA foam handle for any damage or excessive wear. A comfortable grip is important for fighting powerful fish. Ensure the butt cap is still securely attached; losing it can allow water and debris into the rod blank.

Proactive inspection and timely repairs ensure your rod is always in top fighting condition. Don't let a small, overlooked issue cost you a personal best catch!

Budgeting for Your Catfish Rod: What to Expect

Let's talk about the dollars and cents. Just like with any fishing gear, the cost of catfish rods can vary wildly. Understanding what you get for your money can help you make a smart purchase without breaking the bank.

Entry-Level Options

If you're just starting out, or simply looking for a reliable, no-frills rod for casual catfishing, entry-level options are abundant and often perfectly capable. You don't need to spend a fortune to catch catfish in Texas.

• Affordable and Functional: Entry-level catfish rods typically fall into a modest price range. These rods often feature durable fiberglass or composite blanks, which are incredibly tough and forgiving. While they might not offer the extreme sensitivity or lightweight feel of more expensive rods, they are robust enough to handle most channel cats and even smaller blue and flathead cats. They are designed to be workhorses, not show ponies.
• Common Brands and Where to Find Them: You'll find many reputable brands offering solid entry-level rods. These are widely available at big-box retailers, sporting goods stores, and online. Stores like Bass Pro Shops or even general retailers offer a good selection of affordable options that will get you on the water quickly. They are excellent choices for setting up multiple rods for bank fishing or outfitting the whole family for a fun day of fishing.
• What to Expect: Expect a rod that's durable, has sufficient backbone for common catfishing situations, and will get the job done. While sensitivity might not be its strongest suit, it will certainly transmit the thumping bite of an aggressive catfish. These rods are fantastic for learning the ropes and are often tough enough to withstand a fair bit of abuse, which is perfect when you're still figuring things out.

Don't let budget constraints stop you from enjoying catfishing. A well-chosen entry-level rod can provide years of enjoyment and plenty of fish-catching memories.

Mid-Range Performance Rods

For anglers who are a bit more serious about their catfishing and spend a good amount of time on the water, mid-range rods offer a significant step up in performance, sensitivity, and often, durability.

• Enhanced Features and Performance: In this price bracket, you'll start to see rods with improved blank materials (often graphite-composite blends), which offer a better balance of strength and sensitivity. You'll likely find higher quality guides, more comfortable handles (like cork or denser EVA foam), and stronger reel seats. These rods provide a noticeable improvement in bite detection, allowing you to feel those more subtle takes. They also typically offer better casting performance and often a more refined feel during the fight.
• Versatility for Various Techniques: Mid-range rods are often designed with specific catfishing techniques in mind, offering specialized actions or lengths that cater to certain situations, whether it's heavy current fishing or precision casting for flatheads. This means you can find a rod that feels more tailored to your preferred style of fishing. If you're looking to target larger blue cats or flatheads more consistently, a mid-range rod will give you the confidence and capability to handle bigger fish.
• Smart Investment: A mid-range rod is a fantastic investment for the dedicated angler. It strikes a great balance between cost and performance, providing features and durability that will serve you well for many seasons. These rods are often robust enough to handle a variety of situations but still offer enough refinement to make fishing more enjoyable and productive.

Checking out brands that specialize in catfishing or well-known fishing brands on platforms like Amazon can reveal some excellent mid-range options that offer great value for their price.

High-End Specialty Rods

For the truly obsessed catfisherman, those who chase state records or regularly tangle with trophy-class fish, high-end specialty rods are the ultimate choice. These are precision tools built for maximum performance and durability.

• Cutting-Edge Materials and Construction: High-end rods feature the best available materials, such as advanced graphite composites or S-glass blanks, meticulously designed tapers, and premium components. They are often incredibly strong yet surprisingly lightweight, offering exceptional sensitivity to detect even the slightest bite from a cautious trophy fish. Every component, from the Fuji guides with ceramic inserts to the custom reel seats and ergonomic handles, is chosen for peak performance and longevity.
• Unmatched Power and Sensitivity: These rods provide the absolute best in terms of power-to-weight ratio and sensitivity. You can feel the subtlest pick-ups, yet have the brute force to turn a 50-pound blue cat away from a snag. They are engineered to provide maximum leverage and shock absorption, giving you the best chance to land that fish of a lifetime. The increased sensitivity also allows you to better "read" the bottom, feeling changes in structure that might indicate a prime catfishing spot.
• For the Serious Angler: While a significant investment, a high-end specialty rod is for the angler who demands the very best from their equipment and relies on it for success in demanding situations. These rods are often the preferred choice for tournament anglers or guides who put their gear through rigorous use day in and day out. They are built to withstand incredible stress and provide a competitive edge.

Ultimately, the best rod for Texas catfishing is one that matches your budget, your fishing style, and the species you're targeting. Whether you go entry-level or high-end, choosing a rod with the right power, action, and length will greatly improve your success and enjoyment on the water.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Laws, prices and regulations vary by location and change over time. Consult a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation.