Photo: Engbretson, Eric / U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Pylodictis olivaris
Flathead Catfish
Freshwater
About this species
A flat-headed, solitary catfish that prefers live prey over carrion, unlike most catfish. Big flatheads lie up in deep log jams and undercut banks by day. Live sunfish and bullheads fished at night tempt the largest specimens.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
2 – 20 m
Habitat Spots
RiverLakeReservoir
Fishing Methods
BottomFloat
Bait & Rig
Live sunfish, bullheads, or large creek chubs fished under a float or on a tight-line rig at night near log jams.
Edibility & Taste
Firm, mild white flesh similar to channel catfish; best pan-fried or grilled fresh.
Similar Species
A flat, shovel-shaped head, mottled yellow-brown body, and square tail distinguish it from channel and blue catfish.
Record Weight
56.2 kg