Find Your Next Spot
Flathead catfish
Pylodictis olivaris
Identification
A flattened head, small eyes, a protruding lower jaw, and mottled yellow-brown coloration set it apart from channel and blue catfish.
Where It's Found
Deep river holes with submerged logs and debris, most common in the central and southern U.S.
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Fishing Notes
Unlike other catfish, flatheads prefer live bait over cut bait or stink bait — live bluegill or shad fished near cover at night is the classic technique.
Scientific Classification▾
Family
Ictaluridae
Genus
Pylodictisrafinesque
Order
Siluriformes
Class
Actinopterygii
Phylum
Chordata
Kingdom
Animalia
Ready to go fishing?
Find a boat ramp near you and check state fishing regulations before you head out.
Photography sourced from Wikimedia Commons contributors.