Stonecat

Noturus flavus

Stonecat (Noturus flavus) is a small native North American madtom, a nocturnal catfish that hides by day under rocks and logs in flowing streams and rivers. It’s known for a stout body, broad head, and venomous pectoral and dorsal fin spines.

Freshwater

Stonecat reference image — USFWS Mountain Prairie, public-domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Brown to olive body with mottled darker saddles or blotches and a pale belly
Broad, flattened head with small eyes and a stout catfish profile
White or pale chin and a tail often with a noticeable dark edge or banding

Habitat

Clear to turbid streams and rivers with moderate to swift current, especially rocky riffles, runs, and undercut banks; it shelters under flat rocks, drift, and woody cover on sand, gravel, or rubble bottoms.

Bait notes

Best taken on small live or cut worms, insect larvae, and small pieces of nightcrawler; tiny jigs, soft plastics, and bottom-bounced bait can also work. They are usually incidental catches rather than a primary game fish.

Behavior

Mostly nocturnal and benthic, stonecats feed on aquatic insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms, and other invertebrates picked from the bottom. They are secretive, hold tight to cover, and are often more active after dark.

Caution

Handle carefully: the dorsal and pectoral fin spines can inflict a painful venomous sting. Use pliers and avoid gripping behind the head. Follow local regulations; check harvest rules where native catfishes are protected or unmanaged.

Fishing notes

Fish small offerings close to bottom near rocks and current seams, especially at night or in low light. Use light tackle and a sensitive rod; expect short strikes and careful unhooking because of the venomous spines.