Blue Catfish — US fishing guide

Ictalurus furcatus
Ictaluridae

Blue Catfish is one of North America's most sought-after freshwater game fish, found across large rivers and reservoirs in south and midwest. Below is where it lives, when it bites and how to catch it — plus the top US lakes where it has been recorded.

At a glance

Typical habitat
Deep river channels
Active times
Night
Best season
Warm months
US range
Large rivers and reservoirs in South and Midwest

How to catch Blue Catfish

Cut bait; trophy fish over 40 kg possible

Browse by state

Top 2107 lakes nationally

Frequently asked questions

Where do you find Blue Catfish?

Blue Catfish typically holds around deep river channels. In the US it is common across large rivers and reservoirs in south and midwest.

When is the best time to catch Blue Catfish?

Blue Catfish is most active night, with the best fishing warm months.

What is the best way to fish for Blue Catfish?

Cut bait; trophy fish over 40 kg possible

All US fish species