Fishing Tips: How To Catch Flathead Catfish

Flathead Catfish

Large, up to 125 lbs.

Heavy rods and strong lines.

Moderate to high.

High due to size and strength.

Specific large rivers and lakes.

Epic

More photos of Flathead Catfish.

Flathead Catfish are a prized catch for many anglers due to their size and the challenging fight they offer. These fish are predominantly found in larger rivers and reservoirs where they prefer areas with plenty of cover like submerged logs or deep holes. Flathead Catfish are predators, primarily feeding on live fish, which distinguishes their bait preferences from other catfish that might feed on dead or decaying matter.

Techniques such as live bait fishing, limb lines, and trotlines are particularly effective. Night fishing is recommended since Flatheads are mostly nocturnal and more active during darker hours.

Baits For Catching Flathead Catfish:

Berkley Gulp! Catfish Chunks

Soft plastic baits, such as the Berkley Gulp! Catfish Chunks, are designed to imitate the scent an...

Soft plastic baits, such as the Berkley Gulp! Catfish Chunks, are designed to imitate the scent and texture of natural baits. These chunks are infused with a strong scent that attracts bottom-dwelling fish. They can be used on a hook or jighead and are effective in various environments.
Continue reading

Cut Bluegill

Cut bluegill is another excellent choice for bait, especially for larger predatory fish. The tough...

Cut bluegill is another excellent choice for bait, especially for larger predatory fish. The tough skin of bluegill helps keep the bait on the hook longer, while the flesh releases oils and scents that attract fish. It can be used in various water conditions and is especially useful for targeting catfish and bass.
Continue reading

Cut Shad

Cut shad is an effective bait for many species of fish, especially catfish. The oily flesh of shad...

Cut shad is an effective bait for many species of fish, especially catfish. The oily flesh of shad releases a strong scent trail in the water, attracting fish from far away.
Continue reading

Live Bluegill

Live bluegill are a prime choice for live bait due to their size and natural swimming action. Hook...

Live bluegill are a prime choice for live bait due to their size and natural swimming action. Hooking them through the back or lips allows them to swim freely and naturally, making them highly attractive to predatory fish. They are particularly effective when fished near structures like logs, rocks, and drop-offs.
Continue reading

Shad

Live shad are another excellent live bait option. Their oily bodies release a strong scent that at...

Live shad are another excellent live bait option. Their oily bodies release a strong scent that attracts predatory fish from a distance. Hooking them through the back or lips keeps them alive and swimming naturally, making them an enticing target.
Continue reading

More Thoughts on Baits: Choosing the right bait is crucial when targeting Flathead Catfish. Since they prefer live prey, using baits that can actively move and create vibrations in the water will significantly increase your chances of attracting these fish. The freshness and liveliness of the bait are key factors in successful Flathead catfishing.

Gear To Use For Catching Flathead Catfish:

Gear Type	Specifications	Purpose
Rod/Reel	Heavy-action rod paired with a high-capacity reel.	Necessary to handle the significant weight and strength of flatheads.
Line	30-50 lb test braided line.	Provides the durability and strength needed for big catfish.
Hook	Size 5/0-8/0 circle hooks.	Ensures a secure hook-up and reduces gut hooking.
Weights	Heavy enough to keep bait near the bottom in current.	Essential for maintaining bait position in flowing waters.

More Thoughts on Gear:

Flathead Catfish can grow very large, often exceeding 50 pounds, so your gear needs to be robust to handle these powerful fish. Using strong, durable equipment will help you manage the fight and increase the likelihood of successfully landing a flathead.

Best Time Of Year To Catch / Weather Conditions:

The optimal time to target Flathead Catfish is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall. During this period, they are most active and feed aggressively, especially at night or during warm, humid evenings.

Most Active Feeding Times: Flathead Catfish are nocturnal feeders with peak activity just after sunset and before sunrise. Fishing during these hours maximizes your chances of a successful catch.

How To Identify If You Caught Flathead Catfish: Flathead Catfish have a distinctive appearance with a broad, flat head, hence their name. They have a mottled brownish-yellow color that helps them blend into muddy or sandy river bottoms. Unlike other catfish, their lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw, and they lack the forked tail found in channel catfish. For more detailed identification or to confirm your catch, you can consult local fishing resources or use online identification tools like the Catchpedia Fish Identifier.