The flathead catfish is one of the most commonly sought after members of the catfish family. Their wide distribution and great eating account for their popularity.
They are a mottled brownish yellow on top with dark speckling on a whitish belly. Distinct features include a large mouth, a prominently flattened head, and chin and mouth barbels (whiskers) used for smell and dorsal and pectoral fins with prominent spines, of which anglers should use caution.
They live in all rivers and lakes and are widespread in their range throughout the eastern and central U.S. Their preferred habitat is root mats, brush piles and undercut banks and shorelines.
They are commonly caught on rod and reel, jug lines, bush lines and trot lines. Flathead catfish can be caught on a wide range of baits including worms, fish, cheese, liver, chicken parts and crawfish. However, the most successful bait for these powerful catfish would be live sunfish fished on large strong hooks with heavy line.