Channel Catfish — US fishing guide
Ictalurus punctatus
Ictaluridae
Svenska: Kanalmal
Channel Catfish is one of North America's most sought-after freshwater game fish, found across nationwide, mississippi basin, southern reservoirs. 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
River and lake bottoms
Active times
Night, dusk
Best season
Warm summer nights best
US range
Nationwide, Mississippi basin, Southern reservoirs
How to catch Channel Catfish
Bottom fishing with stinkbait, liver, cut bait
Lake-by-lake occurrence data for Channel Catfish is being compiled from GBIF and will appear here soon. In the meantime, explore US lakes by state.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you find Channel Catfish?
Channel Catfish typically holds around river and lake bottoms. In the US it is common across nationwide, mississippi basin, southern reservoirs.
When is the best time to catch Channel Catfish?
Channel Catfish is most active night, dusk, with the best fishing warm summer nights best.
What is the best way to fish for Channel Catfish?
Bottom fishing with stinkbait, liver, cut bait