Photo: forgotton0001 / CC BY 2.0 (via Wikimedia Commons)
Ictalurus furcatus
Blue Catfish
Freshwater
About this species
The largest North American catfish, capable of exceeding 50 kg in big river systems. It is a strong-current specialist that feeds heavily on shad and other baitfish. Fresh cut bait drifted along channel edges targets trophy fish.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
2 – 25 m
Habitat Spots
RiverLakeReservoir
Fishing Methods
BottomTrolling
Bait & Rig
Fresh-cut or live skipjack herring and shad drifted along current breaks and channel edges on heavy bottom rigs.
Edibility & Taste
Mild-flavored, firm white flesh excellent smoked, fried, or grilled, especially prized in the southern United States.
Similar Species
No black spots on the body and a straight-edged anal fin distinguish blue catfish from channel catfish, which has scattered black spots.
Record Weight
67.6 kg