How To Catch Flathead Catfish

Flathead catfish are one of the oldest fish species in freshwater. Do you want to learn how to catch flathead catfish? Flatheads are often found in large waters. Flatheads are solitary and difficult to catch. They are the toughest of all catfish to catch. When hooked on the line, flathead catfish will put up a hard fight. It is one of the fastest growing fishes and grows to be very big up to 100 pounds. Additionally, it is a delicious and nutritional fish.

How To Catch Flathead Catfish

One of the best ways to catch flathead catfish during the day is to look for structures such as brush, rip rap, underwater piles of debris, driftwood piles, snags, riverbank cavities, and submerged logs. Drop your line with bait near these structures. When the fish is hooked, don’t fight it with the reel.

Instead, point the rod straight up, and allow the bend of the rod to tire the fish. Stand firm when the fish is fighting and when it eases it, lower your rod tip toward the water, reeling on the drop. Don’t over-apply pressure. Moreover, bottom fishing can also be used to catch flathead catfish.

Flatheads feed at night and fishing them during the night can be more productive as they are less wary during the night. You will catch larger flatheads during the night than in the daytime. When you fish for flathead catfish from the shore, use a longer rod as it is better for casting distance. Additionally, it can also prevent the flatheads from swimming in the rocks when you reel them in.

When fishing for flatheads from a river and you are casting flathead catfish baits, use two fishing rods to cover a few of the main areas. Cast one rod close to the bank and one toward the middle of the river.

1. Bottom Fishing

Bottom fishing is a popular method for targeting flathead catfish, often employing natural baits such as live baitfish, worms, or cut bait. Anglers typically use heavy tackle with a strong fishing rod and reel setup to present the bait on or near the bottom where flatheads often lurk. This method is effective in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs where flatheads are known to inhabit deep holes, submerged structures, and areas with ample cover.

2. Drift Fishing

Drift fishing involves presenting bait to flathead catfish by allowing the boat to drift naturally with the current while dragging bait along the bottom. Anglers can use a variety of baits including live baitfish, cut bait, or prepared dough baits. This method is effective for covering large areas of water and locating actively feeding fish, especially in river systems with steady currents.

3. Trotlining

Trotlining is a passive fishing method where a long line with multiple baited hooks is suspended across a body of water, often anchored at both ends. Anglers typically use live or cut bait such as fish, worms, or small crustaceans. Trotlines are set overnight or for extended periods, allowing flatheads to locate and take the bait. This method is commonly used in rivers, channels, and other water bodies with slow or moderate currents.

4. Jug Fishing

Jug fishing involves setting out floating jugs or buoys with baited lines attached, allowing them to drift freely with the current or wind. When a flathead catfish takes the bait, the jug will bob or move, indicating a strike. Anglers can then retrieve the jug and reel in the fish. Jug fishing is a versatile and easy-to-implement method suitable for various bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and ponds.

5. Anchor Fishing

Anchor fishing entails anchoring the boat in a strategic location where flathead catfish are likely to be present, such as near submerged structures, drop-offs, or channel edges. Anglers then cast or drop baited lines down to the bottom and wait for bites. This method allows anglers to target specific areas and maintain precise bait placement, increasing the chances of enticing flatheads to bite.

How To Catch Flathead Catfish In Lakes

Catfish are bottom feeders and will often be found at the bottom. However, they will move up in the water column to feed during the night. River channels and hard bottoms are areas to look for flathead catfish. They eat almost anything including minnows, earthworms, crickets, and mealworms.

Use baits and lures when fishing for flathead catfish. Anglers use a form of chumming to lure flathead catfish into smaller areas thereby making it easier to catch them.

How To Catch Flathead Catfish In A River

When fishing for flathead catfish in a river, look for bushes, fallen trees, rocky drop-offs, and shaded areas. They eat almost anything that can fit in their mouths. Therefore you have a wide pool of baits that you can use. Cast your baits and lures to any structure that you discovered. Try casting in different parts of the river until you find the spots where they are located.

How To Catch Flathead Catfish From Shore

When fishing for flathead catfish from the shore, look for areas of the water that provide shade or cover. Fallen trees, logs, wrecks, and other cover. I like to divide the water into 3 to four parts and start testing each section with baits and lures. Flathead catfish eat anything that can fit into their mouths.

Bream, minnows, and worms are some of the baits that can be used when fishing for flathead catfish. Cast into each area from the shore to find catfish. It is a trial-and-error strategy until you hit a spot that brings you some catfish.

Flathead Catfish Fishing Tackle

A 7 to 9 feet medium/heavy action rod with 300 yards of 20 lb line. Use a 40 to 60-lb monofilament or 80 to 100-pound braided line. Use hooks with sizes 4/0 to 8/0.

Best Bait For Flathead Catfish

1. Bullheads

Bullheads serve as excellent live bait for targeting flathead catfish, renowned for their predatory nature. These smaller catfish species are often abundant in many freshwater ecosystems, making them easily accessible bait for anglers. When used as bait, bullheads emit vibrations and movements that can attract flatheads lurking in their vicinity.

Anglers typically rig bullheads on larger hooks and present them near structures or in areas where flatheads are known to congregate, such as deep holes, submerged logs, or along the edges of channels. Bullheads are particularly effective as bait for flatheads due to their hardiness and ability to withstand prolonged periods in the water, making them an enticing option for anglers seeking to hook into trophy-sized flathead catfish.

2. Carp

Carp can be an effective bait choice when targeting flathead catfish, especially in waters where carp populations are abundant. Carp are known for their large size and robust presence in many freshwater environments, making them a readily available bait option for anglers seeking to hook into flathead.

Anglers often use sections of carp, such as fillets or chunks, as bait, presenting them on larger hooks near structures or in areas where flatheads are known to frequent. The strong odor and natural oils released by carp can attract flatheads over long distances, enticing them to strike. Additionally, carp are hardy and can withstand extended periods in the water, making them a reliable choice for anglers targeting trophy-sized flathead catfish.

3. Goldfish

Goldfish can serve as effective live bait for flathead catfish, particularly in waters where they are legal to use and abundant. These small, brightly colored fish emit strong vibrations and distress signals when placed in the water, which can attract predatory flatheads lurking nearby.

Anglers typically rig live goldfish on large hooks using a slip sinker or Carolina rig, allowing them to swim freely and appear more natural to the catfish. Goldfish are hardy and can survive for extended periods in the water, making them a practical choice for anglers looking to entice flathead.

However, it’s essential to check local regulations regarding the use of goldfish as bait, as they may be prohibited in some areas due to concerns about introducing invasive species or transmitting diseases to native fish populations.

4. Sunfish

Sunfish, such as bluegill or pumpkinseed, are a popular bait choice for targeting flathead catfish. These small panfish are abundant in many freshwater systems and serve as natural prey for flatheads, making them an enticing option for anglers.

When using sunfish as bait, anglers typically rig them on large hooks or circle hooks to accommodate the size of the bait and the mouth of the catfish. Live sunfish are often hooked through the lips or back to allow for natural movement in the water, which can attract hungry flatheads.

Additionally, sunfish can be effective when used as cut bait, with chunks or fillets deployed on bottom rigs to release scent and draw in feeding flatheads. However, it’s crucial to check local regulations regarding the use of sunfish as bait, as they may be protected in certain areas or subject to size and bag limits. Overall, sunfish can be a productive bait choice for anglers targeting trophy flathead catfish in freshwater environments.

5. Bluegill

Bluegill, a common species of sunfish found in freshwater systems across North America, serves as an excellent bait for targeting flathead catfish. These small fish are natural prey for flatheads, making them an enticing choice for anglers seeking to lure in these predatory fish.

When using bluegill as bait, anglers typically rig them on large hooks or circle hooks to accommodate the size of the bait and the mouth of the catfish. Live bluegill is often hooked through the lips or back to allow for natural movement in the water, which can attract hungry flatheads.

Additionally, bluegill can be effective when used as cut bait, with chunks or fillets deployed on bottom rigs to release scent and draw in feeding flatheads. However, it’s essential to check local regulations regarding the use of bluegill as bait, as they may be protected in certain areas or subject to size and bag limits. Overall, bluegill can be a productive bait choice for anglers targeting trophy flathead catfish in freshwater environments.

6. Perch

Perch, particularly species like yellow perch or white perch, can be effective bait for targeting flathead catfish in freshwater environments. These small fish are readily available in many bodies of water and are natural prey for flatheads, making them a suitable choice for anglers looking to entice these predatory fish.

When using perch as bait, anglers typically rig them on large hooks or circle hooks to accommodate the size of the bait and the mouth of the catfish. Live perch are often hooked through the lips or back to allow for natural movement in the water, which can attract hungry flatheads.

Additionally, perch can be effective when used as cut bait, with chunks or fillets deployed on bottom rigs to release scent and draw in feeding flatheads. However, anglers should be aware of local regulations regarding the use of perch as bait, as they may be protected or subject to size and bag limits in certain areas. Overall, perch can be a valuable bait option for anglers targeting flathead catfish.

7. Small Catfish

Using small catfish as bait for flathead catfish can be an effective strategy, as flatheads are opportunistic predators known to prey on smaller fish, including their own kind. When using small catfish as bait, anglers typically target juvenile or undersized catfish species like bullheads or channel catfish.

These smaller catfish can be rigged live or as cut bait, depending on local regulations and angler preference. Live small catfish are often hooked through the lips or dorsal fin to allow for natural movement in the water, enticing nearby flatheads.

Alternatively, cut pieces or fillets of small catfish can be deployed on bottom rigs to release scent and attract flatheads to the area. Anglers should ensure that they are complying with local regulations regarding the use of live bait and any size or bag limits on small catfish species. Overall, small catfish can be an effective and natural bait choice for targeting flathead catfish in freshwater environments.

8. Minnows

Minnows are a popular and effective bait choice for targeting flathead catfish. These small fish, often including species like shiners or creek chubs, are readily available in many freshwater habitats and are natural prey for flatheads.

Anglers typically rig minnows either alive or as cut bait, depending on the fishing conditions and preferences. Live minnows are usually hooked through the lips or back to allow for natural swimming motion, enticing nearby flatheads with both movement and scent.

Alternatively, cut pieces or sections of minnows can be used to release scent and attract flatheads to the area when rigged on bottom rigs. Anglers should ensure that they are complying with local regulations regarding the use of live bait and any size or bag limits on minnow species. Overall, minnows are a versatile and effective bait option for anglers targeting flathead catfish in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.

9. Suckers

Suckers, particularly species like creek suckers or white suckers, can be excellent bait for targeting flathead catfish. These fish are found in various freshwater habitats and are known to be a natural part of the flathead’s diet.

Anglers often use live suckers as bait, either rigging them on hooks through the lips or back to allow for natural movement in the water. The lively action of live suckers can attract flatheads from a distance, enticing them to strike.

Additionally, cut suckers can be used as bait, releasing scent and attracting flatheads to the area when rigged on bottom rigs. However, regulations regarding the use of live bait and size limits on sucker species should be checked before use. Overall, suckers are a versatile and effective bait choice for anglers pursuing flathead catfish in rivers, streams, and lakes.

10. Shad

Shad is a popular and effective bait choice for targeting flathead catfish in freshwater environments. These silvery baitfish are widely distributed across rivers and lakes, making them readily available for anglers.

Shad emits a strong scent that attracts predatory fish like flatheads, making them an excellent choice for bait. Anglers often use both live and cut shad for flathead catfish fishing. Live shad can be rigged on hooks to allow for natural movement in the water, enticing nearby flatheads to strike.

Alternatively, cut shad can be used to release scent and attract flatheads to the area when rigged on bottom rigs. Shad is particularly effective during periods of high activity, such as dawn and dusk when flatheads are more likely to be feeding. Overall, shad is a versatile and reliable bait option for anglers targeting flathead catfish in rivers and lakes.

11. Crayfish

Crayfish are a natural and enticing bait option for targeting flathead catfish in freshwater environments. These crustaceans are abundant in many rivers and lakes, making them a readily available and effective bait choice for anglers.

Flathead catfish are known to prey on crayfish due to their high nutritional value and enticing scent. Anglers often use live crayfish rigged on hooks to mimic natural movement in the water, which can attract nearby flatheads.

Additionally, anglers may opt to use crayfish as cut bait, releasing their scent to attract flatheads to the area when rigged on bottom rigs. Crayfish are particularly effective when fished near rocky structures, submerged logs, or other areas where flathead catfish are likely to hunt for prey. Overall, crayfish are a versatile and productive bait option for anglers seeking to catch flathead catfish in rivers and lakes.

Flathead Catfish Fishing Tips

1. Flatheads have a very good sense of smell and can taste and smell minute quantities of certain compounds. This helps to attract them to your bait but also be a deterrent when they smell things like tobacco, sunscreen, insect repellant, gasoline, etc.

2. Flathead catfish spawn during summer when the water temperature is about 72 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Flathead catfish likes structures like brush, rip rap, underwater piles of debris, driftwood piles, snags, riverbank cavities, and submerged logs.

4. Flathead catfish can be found in large rivers in deep, slow stretches close to strong currents.

5. Flathead catfish feed at night on almost anything like crustaceans, mollusks, and other fish like shad, bullheads, and carp.

6. Flatheads will ignore smelly and rotten baits or baits from the local fishing store like chicken entrails.

7. Flatheads are solitary; therefore, when you catch one adult in an area, don’t expect to find others there. Move to another area and fish for more flatheads.

8. Flatheads will become dormant and go into a hibernation stage when the water temperature drops below 45 degrees.

9. When you are fishing for trophy flatheads, focus on large rivers and lakes.

10. When you have a flathead hooked, don’t fight it with the reel. Instead, point the rod straight up, and allow the bend of the rod to tire the fish. Stand firm when the fish is fighting and when it eases it, lower your rod tip toward the water, reeling on the drop. Don’t over-apply pressure.

11. Make sure your drag is set at some point below the breaking strength of the line. When the flathead applies pressure, the drag will slip and give a line.

12. Bottom fishing using prepared or natural bait is another way to fish for flatheads.

13. Flatheads usually run straight to the rocks when they are hooked.

14. Flathead catfish like live bait.

The Bottom Line

Flathead catfish grow very large, are solitary, and are difficult to find and catch. Flatheads put up a hard fight when hooked. They like structures to hide in as they wait in an ambush for prey. Additionally, they feed at night and this is the best time to fish for flatheads.

In this article, we discussed the behaviors, fishing techniques, tips, and equipment needed to successfully catch flathead catfish. If you are interested in catching other fishes like bream, cod, blue catfish, channel catfish, and pollock, then read how to catch bream, how to catch cod, how to catch blue catfish, how to catch channel catfish, and how to catch pollock.