Fish Profile - White Catfish

In appearance, the white catfish is a mix between a channel catfish and a bullhead. It grows larger than a bullhead, but smaller than a channel catfish. Its body is husky like a bullhead's, but its tail is forked like the channel cat's. Habitat best suited for the white catfish is also a cross between a channel cat's and a bullhead's. While a white catfish avoids the swifter waters of larger rivers, it does not thrive in weedy or muddy shallow ponds, either.

Like the brown bullhead, white catfish spawn in late spring when the water temperature reaches 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Males and females share the responsibilities of constructing the nest and guarding the eggs and young. Nests are usually located on a sandbar.

Species Facts

Science Name: Ameiurus catus Other Names: forked-tail cat, catfish Ideal Temp: 76 to 85 World Record: 18 lbs. 14 ounces, Fl. Environment: stream, lake Techniques: light tackle

Home :: Contact Us :: Parnelle Homepage :: Admin