Gafftopsail Catfish
Bagre marinus
Gafftopsail Catfish (Bagre marinus) is a saltwater/brackish ariid catfish of bays, estuaries, and coastal shallows. It has venomous fin spines and is a strong, common bait-stealer that bites best on fresh cut bait.
Identification points
- Long filament-like white extensions on the tips of the dorsal and pectoral fins
- Deep blue-gray to silvery body with a pale belly
- Four barbels on the chin and a forked tail
Habitat
Shallow coastal waters, estuaries, tidal creeks, bays, and lower river mouths over mud or sand; often near structure, docks, marsh edges, and channels.
Bait notes
Fresh cut mullet, menhaden, shrimp, squid, and small pieces of fish are effective. Fish whole or chunk baits on the bottom; live bait is usually less necessary than fresh cut bait.
Behavior
Nocturnal and opportunistic, feeding on fish, shrimp, crabs, and other bottom prey. It often schools, uses whiskers to find food, and readily picks up cut bait from the bottom.
Caution
Venomous dorsal and pectoral fin spines can cause painful puncture wounds; handle with care and use pliers or a gripper. Consume only from clean waters because coastal catfish can accumulate contaminants.
Fishing notes
Use a fish-finder or bottom rig with enough weight to hold in current, and let the bait sit on the bottom. Expect soft, cautious bites; circle hooks help with hooksets and reduce deep hooking.