Flathead Catfishing

One of the native species of catfish in United States is the Flathead catfish. They originate from the rivers of Mississippi and bigger rivers rushing through it. Due to their original location and their usage they were relocated in the bodies of water around the country. They are popularly known for game fishing and as a meal. They usually dwell in sluggish flowing water such as huge rivers, streams, lakes and ponds. They usually stay in deep bodies of water with surface structures such as logs and rocks as their habitat.

Their distinct, elongated flat head is the reason why they are called Flathead catfish. Some of their unique features include their flat, oval shaped eyes and a protruding lower jaw. They come in different colors. Some of them have mottled brown shades while some come in yellow color. When fishing in rivers and lakes, you can catch a Flathead catfish with an average weight of forty to fifty pounds.  There are also reported catch of Flatheads weighing more than one hundred pounds.

Flatheads grow rapidly upon hatching. If they have a measurement of fifteen to nineteen inches long, they are considered mature. Usually, their life span reaches up to twenty five years. As they age, they increase in length and weight as well. They eat nearly anything although bite better on certain bait. As long as it can fit in their mouth, they consider it as food. However, they prefer eating fish and bream is their favorite. Perch and Sunfish are also included in their preference. In smaller bodies of water or waters where they are not a habitat, Flatheads destroy sunfish clusters. When Flatheads starts to enter the rivers of Georgia, Redbreast Sunfish start to get extinct. Catfish are lively at night; however, they also feed during day time. They feed through sight. You can make use of light to entice this type of catfish. Usually, they will approach feed with a light in the bait.

Deep holes with covers on the opposite edges of river bends are one of the favorite areas of Flatheads. They usually look for fallen logs, tree base and rocks to act as their hiding place. If you go fishing, approach the edges. Manipulate your bait, float it in and dangle. If bends are too harsh for fishing, look for bends with sluggish flow such as submerged brush piles. Usually, Flatheads trek around ancient rivers and on the creeks of lakes and reservoirs. They go into the shallow surface to feed especially at night time. Situate yourself within these channels and get ready for a good catch.

A better catch happens early morning and evening and during summer months especially after dark.  You should be familiar with the behavior of the water and the location of Flatheads. By doing so, you can draw the bait closer to them. Dangle your catfish bait on the bottom of rivers and lakes. Usually, Flatheads feed from the bottom area.