Flathead Catfish

Pylodictis olivaris

Natural-history illustration of a mottled flathead catfish with a broad head and square tail
Reviewed species illustration. Confirm your catch with current state identification resources before keeping fish.

Flathead catfish are the second-largest North American catfish, growing to over 100 pounds in large rivers. Unlike channel catfish, flatheads are almost exclusively live-bait feeders — they eat live fish, rarely taking prepared baits. They're solitary ambush predators that hide in deep holes and under large woody debris, emerging at night to hunt. Flatheads are prized trophies in states where they're native (Mississippi River basin) and have been stocked in western reservoirs.

Catching Tips

Large live sunfish, perch, or small catfish on a sturdy hook near bottom in deep river holes at night. Flatheads are structure-oriented — place your bait within inches of a log jam or concrete piling. Use strong tackle (50lb+ braid) as big flatheads are nearly unstoppable in heavy structure.

World Record

123 lbs
Weight
Elk City Reservoir, Kansas
Location
1998
Year

No stocking events recorded yet for Flathead Catfish.