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Flathead Catfish fishing

Pylodictis olivaris
Flathead Catfish

About Flathead Catfish

A big river predator that wants live bait. Holds in deep cover and hunts hard after dark.

Typical size: Often 3-15 kg, big fish over 25 kg. Record (approx.): ≈ 56 kg.

Season, time and habitat

Best season
Jun-Aug
Best time
Dusk, night
Habitat
River, Lake

Lures and baits that work

Deadbait Deadbait Set a whole or half baitfish on the bottom or under a float. Deadly for pike in winter and for burbot and eel at night.
Ledger bait Ledger bait Fish the bait still on the bottom with a sinker. Common for bottom feeders; watch the rod tip for gentle bites.

Find waters where Flathead Catfish is biting now

Common questions

When is the best time to catch Flathead Catfish?

Flathead Catfish fishing is usually best around Jun-Aug. The best windows in the day are usually dusk, night.

What lures and baits work for Flathead Catfish?

Effective methods for Flathead Catfish include Deadbait and Ledger bait.

Where can you catch Flathead Catfish?

Flathead Catfish is most often found in river, lake. Napp shows the nearest waters and the live odds on the bite right now.