What is a flathead catfish?
The flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) is a species of freshwater catfish native to North America. It is also commonly known as the yellow catfish, mudcat, or shovelhead catfish. The name “flathead” refers to its flattened head, which is broad and rounded, distinguishing it from other catfish species with more slender, pointed heads.
Flathead catfish have a distinctive appearance. They have a large mouth with a wide gape and a lower jaw that extends beyond the upper jaw. The body is cylindrical and elongated, covered in smooth, scaleless skin. The coloration can vary, but it typically ranges from light yellow to olive brown on the upper body, fading to a pale yellow or white on the belly. They have mottled patterns or dark blotches along their sides.
Flathead catfish habitat
These catfish are primarily found in large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes with slow-moving or still water. They prefer areas with abundant cover, such as submerged logs, fallen trees, and underwater vegetation. Flathead catfish are most commonly found in the central and southern regions of the United States, including the Mississippi River basin and its tributaries.
Flathead catfish are opportunistic predators and are known for their voracious appetite. They have a varied diet that includes fish, crayfish, insects, frogs, and other aquatic prey. They are skilled hunters and often lie in wait for their prey, relying on their exceptional camouflage and stealth to ambush and capture their meals.
These catfish can grow to impressive sizes. The average adult flathead catfish typically ranges from 10 to 30 pounds (4.5 to 13.6 kilograms), but they have been known to reach weights exceeding 100 pounds (45 kilograms) in exceptional cases. They are highly prized by recreational anglers for their size, strength, and the challenging nature of catching them.
Types of bait for flathead catfish
Live Fish: Flatheads prefer live bait, such as small fish like sunfish, shad, herring, or bluegill. The size of the live bait should be appropriate to match the target size of flathead catfish you are aiming to catch.
Fresh Cut Bait: Cut bait is another effective option. Fresh-cut pieces of fish like shad, bluegill, or skipjack herring can be used. Make sure the bait is fresh and has a strong scent to attract flatheads.
Live Crawfish or Crayfish: Flatheads also prey on crustaceans like crawfish, so using live crawfish or crayfish can be effective. Secure them to the hook using a hook threader or through the tail.
Live or Dead Shrimp: Flatheads are known to feed on shrimp, especially in areas where they are prevalent. You can use live or dead shrimp as bait. If using dead shrimp, make sure they are fresh and have a strong odor.
Natural Baits: Other natural baits like nightcrawlers (large earthworms), large minnows, or even live frogs can be effective in enticing flathead catfish.
Live Eels: These baits stay alive and squirm for a long time. If you fish in an area with native freshwater eels, try these for catching a big flathead.
What to look for in a catfish rod
Length: A rod with a length ranging from 7 to 9 feet is commonly used for flathead catfish. A longer rod allows for longer casting distances and better line control, especially when fishing from the bank or in open water.
Power and Action: Opt for a heavy to medium-heavy power rod with a fast or medium-fast action. This provides the backbone and strength needed to handle the weight and aggressive fighting style of flathead catfish.
Material: Look for a rod made of strong and durable materials such as graphite or composite. These materials offer the necessary strength and sensitivity to detect subtle strikes while providing the necessary backbone to fight and land big flatheads.
Handle: A comfortable and sturdy handle is important for a good grip and control. Cork or EVA foam handles are popular choices that provide a comfortable grip even during long fishing sessions.
Guides: Make sure the rod has sturdy and corrosion-resistant guides. Since flathead catfish can grow to significant sizes, they exert a lot of pressure on the rod and the line. Good quality guides will ensure smooth line flow and prevent line damage.
Reel Seat: Ensure that the rod has a reliable reel seat that securely holds the fishing reel in place. Look for a reel seat that is suitable for the size of the reel you plan to use.
Line Weight: Consider the recommended line weight for the rod. Flathead catfish can be caught using heavier lines, typically in the range of 20 to 40 pounds (9 to 18 kilograms), so choose a rod that can handle the desired line weight.
Types of reels for catching flatheads
Baitcasting Reels: Baitcasting reels are popular among flathead catfish anglers due to their strength and ability to handle heavy lines and lures. They offer excellent control and accuracy for casting and allow for easy line retrieval. Look for a baitcasting reel with a high line capacity, strong drag system, and sturdy construction to handle the size and power of flathead catfish.
Spinning Reels: Spinning reels are another viable option for flathead catfish fishing, especially if you prefer a reel that is easier to use and offers versatility. They are known for their smooth drag systems and are well-suited for casting lighter baits. Look for a spinning reel with a higher line capacity, durable construction, and a strong drag system capable of handling heavy lines and the aggressive runs of flathead catfish.
Conventional Reels: Conventional reels, also known as overhead reels or trolling reels, are commonly used for targeting larger flathead catfish from boats or in situations where heavy tackle and deep-water fishing are involved. These reels offer excellent line capacity, powerful drag systems, and sturdy construction. They are designed to handle heavy lines and can withstand the stress of battling large fish.
Types of catfish hooks
Circle Hooks: Circle hooks are a popular choice for flathead catfish fishing. These hooks have a distinct circular shape with the point turned towards the shank. They are designed to hook the fish in the corner of the mouth, reducing the chances of deep hooking and increasing the likelihood of a successful hookset. Circle hooks are effective when using live bait or cut bait.
J-Hooks: J-hooks are another widely used option for flathead catfish. These hooks have a traditional “J” shape and come in various sizes. Opt for larger-sized J-hooks with a strong shank and a wide gap to accommodate the mouth size of flathead catfish. J-hooks provide good hooking potential when used with live bait or cut bait.
Kahle Hooks: Kahle hooks, also known as shiner hooks or kahle-style hooks, have a slightly curved shape resembling a sickle. They are known for their high hooking efficiency and are particularly effective when using larger live bait, such as shad or bluegill. Kahle hooks provide good holding power and are less prone to bending under the weight and pressure of a flathead catfish.
Treble Hooks: Treble hooks consist of three hooks joined at a common point. They are often used in combination with artificial lures for flathead catfish fishing, such as crankbaits or spoons. Treble hooks provide multiple points of contact, increasing the chances of hooking onto the fish during the strike. Ensure that the treble hooks you choose are sturdy and have sharp points.
Types of flathead catfish rigs
Carolina Rig: The Carolina rig is a versatile and widely used rig for catfish fishing, including flatheads. It consists of a sliding weight, a bead, a swivel, a leader line, and a hook. The sliding weight is placed above the swivel, allowing the bait to move freely while the weight stays on the bottom. This rig is effective for presenting live bait or cut bait on the river or lake bottom.
Slip Sinker Rig: The slip sinker rig, also known as the sliding sinker rig or the fish finder rig, is a simple yet effective rig for flathead catfish. It consists of a sliding weight, a bead, a swivel, a leader line, and a hook. The weight is placed directly on the mainline, followed by the bead and swivel. The leader line is then tied to the swivel, and the hook is attached to the leader. This rig allows the flathead catfish to take the bait without feeling the weight, resulting in better hooksets.
Three-Way Rig: The three-way rig, also known as the T-rig or the modified Carolina rig, is another popular choice for flathead catfish fishing. It involves three components: a three-way swivel, a leader line with a hook, and a weight. The mainline is attached to one end of the three-way swivel, while the leader line and weight are attached to the remaining two ends. This rig allows the bait to be presented off the bottom at various depths, making it effective for targeting suspended flatheads.
Santee Cooper Rig: The Santee Cooper rig, named after the lakes it originated from, is a specialized rig designed for fishing in strong currents or around structure. It consists of a heavy sinker, a bead, a swivel, a leader line, and a hook. The sinker is typically a cone or egg-shaped weight that is threaded onto the mainline and followed by the bead and swivel. The leader line and hook are then attached to the swivel. This rig keeps the bait close to the bottom while reducing line tangles and snagging.
Ways to catch flathead catfish
Bottom Fishing: Flathead catfish are primarily bottom dwellers, so one of the most effective methods is to fish on or near the bottom. This can be done using various rigs like the Carolina rig, slip sinker rig, or three-way rig, with live bait or cut bait presented on or just above the bottom. Cast your bait near structure, submerged logs, or areas with cover where flatheads are likely to be hiding.
Drifting: Drifting is a popular technique for covering large areas of water and locating actively feeding flathead catfish. It involves drifting with the current or wind while presenting baited rigs. You can use the Carolina rig or slip sinker rig and allow your bait to drift naturally along the bottom or just above it. Drifting can be effective in rivers, reservoirs, and larger bodies of water.
Anchoring: Anchoring is a method commonly used when targeting specific areas or structures where flathead catfish are known to be present. Choose a spot near structure, drop anchor, and set up your baited rigs. Flatheads are often attracted to areas with cover, submerged logs, or brush piles. Anchoring allows you to stay in one location and concentrate your fishing efforts.
Trotlining: Trotlining is a technique involving setting up a long line with multiple hooks, usually baited with live or cut bait, and stretched across a section of water. The trotline is anchored on both ends, and the hooks are spaced along the line. This method allows you to cover a large area and target flathead catfish actively searching for food. Check local regulations regarding trotlining, as it may be subject to specific rules and restrictions.
Noodling or Handfishing: Noodling, also known as handfishing or grabbling, is a unique and hands-on method of catching flathead catfish. It involves reaching into underwater crevices, holes, or submerged structures where flatheads may be hiding and grabbing them by hand. This method requires experience, skill, and caution, as well as knowledge of the local regulations, as it is not legal in all areas.
FAQs
Will flathead catfish eat channel catfish?
Flathead catfish are opportunistic predators and have been known to prey on a variety of fish species, including channel catfish. While flathead catfish primarily feed on live fish, their diet can vary depending on their size, habitat, and available food sources. They are known to consume a wide range of prey, including smaller fish like channel catfish.
Flathead catfish are voracious predators and will readily consume other catfish species if given the opportunity. When flathead catfish reach larger sizes, they become more capable of overpowering and consuming other fish, including channel catfish. This can occur when flatheads are in areas where both species coexist and share similar habitats.
Why are flathead catfish a problem?
Flathead catfish are an invasive species that cause a variety of problems, altering native habitats and fish populations.
Do flathead catfish have teeth?
Yes, flathead catfish do have teeth. They possess a set of small sharp, needle-like cardiform teeth that creates a rough sandpaper texture in their mouths. These teeth are used for capturing and holding onto prey, as well as tearing and consuming their food. The teeth of flathead catfish are designed to help them grasp and secure their prey, which primarily consists of live fish but can also include other aquatic organisms like crustaceans and insects.
Do flathead catfish sting?
No, flathead catfish do not have stingers or venomous spines like some other catfish species, such as the freshwater stingray or the electric catfish. While flathead catfish have rough, sandpapery skin and may have sharp spines on their pectoral and dorsal fins, these spines are not venomous and do not pose a significant threat to humans.
However, it’s important to handle flathead catfish with care to avoid injury. The spines on their fins can be sharp and can cause cuts or puncture wounds if mishandled. When handling a flathead catfish, it’s recommended to use gloves or a towel to protect your hands, especially when dealing with larger specimens.
Are flathead catfish good to eat?
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