Tims Fish Pages - Species Info- Flathead Catfish

Scientific Name:

Pylodictis olivaris

Common Names:

flathead catfish, mud cat, yellow cat, shovelhead cat, johnnie cat, opelousas, goujon, appaluchion

Description:

They are yellowish brown, sometimes mottled, and have a yellow or off white underside. They have a flattened head with small eyes and a lower jaw that protrudes.

Location:

Florida Panhandle

Size:

They can reach sizes of over 50 inches, making them the second largest catfish.

Spawning:

Start when water temp reaches 70 to 80 degrees in the late spring. Usually make nests in a cavity or near submerged objects. The female can lay a mass of up to 100,000 eggs. The fry generally stay in schools for a few days after hatching before they disperse.

Prey:

They are predatory and will consume fish and even other catfish. the young often feed on insects. They often feed where food is abundant and in shallow water at night.

Fishing notes:

Best at night using live or cut fish. Recommend using heavy tackle.