Flathead Catfish
Pylodictis olivaris
At a Glance
Avg Length
24"
Avg Weight
10 lbs
World Record
123 lbs
Habitat
Large Rivers, Reservoirs
About the Flathead Catfish
Solitary ambush predator. Only eats live bait — trophy catches come from snags and logjams.
The Flathead Catfish is one of the most recognizable freshwater species in North American waters, classified scientifically as <em>Pylodictis olivaris</em>. It belongs to the Catfish group, most commonly found in large rivers, reservoirs environments. Anglers target this species for both sport and table fare, and it appears across a broad range of water bodies throughout the United States.
A typical Flathead Catfish runs 24 inches in length and weighs around 10 pounds, though fish in prime habitat regularly exceed these averages. The all-tackle world record stands at 123 lbs, set at Kansas, USA, making it a legitimate target for anglers chasing personal bests. Conservation status varies by region — check local regulations before keeping fish, as some waters have slot limits or catch-and-release requirements in place.
Habitat & Range
Primary habitat: Large Rivers, Reservoirs.
The Flathead Catfish thrives across a wide range of freshwater environments throughout North America. Seasonal movements are driven by water temperature — fish tend to move into shallower water during spring and fall feeding periods, and push deeper or seek cover during the heat of summer and cold of winter. Understanding these patterns is critical to locating fish consistently across the season.
How to Fish for Flathead Catfish
Best bait: Live Bluegill.
Technique: Still Fishing Snags.
Match your presentation to the season and conditions. In clear water, downsize your bait and slow your retrieve. In stained or muddy water, switch to high-contrast colors and add vibration. Early morning and evening are the most productive windows during summer months. During spawning season, fish become highly territorial and will strike out of aggression as well as hunger.
World Record
The all-tackle world record Flathead Catfish weighed 123 lbs, caught at Kansas, USA. This record represents the upper end of what this species achieves under ideal conditions. Most anglers targeting personal bests focus on proven trophy waters with the right combination of habitat, forage base, and light fishing pressure.
State Regulations
Regulations vary by state and water body. Before fishing for Flathead Catfish, verify current size limits, bag limits, and open seasons with your state fish and wildlife agency. Check your state's fishing license requirements and season dates at the FishLog Fishing License guide.
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