Black Bullhead
Ameiurus melas
Black bullhead (Ameiurus melas) is a hardy North American catfish that tolerates warm, turbid, low-oxygen waters and often thrives where other fish decline. It is an opportunistic bottom feeder and a minor to moderate angling species in many waters.
Identification points
- Small dark catfish with a stout body and a flattened, broad head
- Only a short anal fin, typically with 17 to 21 fin rays
- Tail is rounded or only slightly notched, unlike forked-tailed catfish
Habitat
Slow rivers, ponds, backwaters, reservoirs, marshes, and ditches with soft mud or silt and dense cover; often in warm, shallow, stagnant, or low-oxygen water.
Bait notes
Small live worms, nightcrawlers, cut bait, prepared stink baits, chicken liver, and soft dough baits all work well. Small chunks of fish or shrimp can also be effective where legal.
Behavior
Nocturnal and highly opportunistic, feeding on insect larvae, worms, crayfish, ছোট fish, and detritus. It often moves into shallow cover at dusk and can remain active in very warm, murky water.
Caution
Sharp pectoral and dorsal spines can puncture skin, so handle carefully. Check local regulations and water-quality advisories before keeping fish; in some polluted waters, consumption limits may apply.
Fishing notes
Fish near bottom in slack water, along weed edges, submerged timber, and muddy drop-offs. Use light to medium tackle with a sinker rig and small hooks; fish after dark or at low light for best action.