Flathead Catfish — US fishing guide

Pylodictis olivaris
Ictaluridae

Flathead 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 cover, log jams
Active times
Night
Best season
Warm months
US range
Large rivers and reservoirs in South and Midwest

How to catch Flathead Catfish

Wants live bait; trophy fish target

Browse by state

Top 4982 lakes nationally

Frequently asked questions

Where do you find Flathead Catfish?

Flathead Catfish typically holds around deep cover, log jams. In the US it is common across large rivers and reservoirs in south and midwest.

When is the best time to catch Flathead Catfish?

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

What is the best way to fish for Flathead Catfish?

Wants live bait; trophy fish target

All US fish species