Bullhead fishing offers a rewarding challenge for anglers seeking an accessible yet reliable catch throughout much of the fishing season. While not as revered as trophy fish, bullhead are a cornerstone of freshwater fishing in many regions, providing steady action and a strong fight. Their preference for shallow, bottom-feeding areas in lakes, ponds, and rivers makes them an easy target for fishermen with the right strategies.
Bullhead are opportunistic feeders that respond well to a variety of baits and lures, from nightcrawlers to live minnows. Their abundance and willingness to bite, combined with their firm flesh, make them a popular choice for anglers, especially those targeting multiple fish in a short amount of time. Though they can be caught in a variety of conditions, understanding the nuances of their behavior and the best techniques for presenting bait will significantly increase your chances of success.
Why do Beginners Target Bullhead?
Bullhead are an excellent choice for beginner anglers due to their abundance in a variety of freshwater environments, including lakes, ponds, and deeper waters. Their opportunistic feeding habits make them relatively easy to catch, as they will strike at a wide range of bait types. Once hooked, they provide a strong fight, adding to the excitement of the catch. Additionally, their firm flesh makes them a desirable species for cooking.
Bullhead fishing is straightforward, requiring minimal gear. A simple rod setup and shore fishing are typically sufficient. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, targeting bullhead offers a great way to enjoy the sport with a high chance of success.
Bullhead Species Identification
In New York, the primary bullhead species are the Black Bullhead (Ameiurus melas) and the Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis). While less common, anglers may occasionally encounter the Brown Bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus), which is rarer in the state. These species are well-suited to a variety of freshwater environments, and understanding their traits can help anglers identify them more effectively.
Black Bullheads typically grow to lengths of 6 to 14 inches, with some individuals reaching up to 24 inches. These fish usually weigh between 1 to 4 pounds, although larger specimens are sometimes found. Yellow Bullheads tend to be slightly larger, usually growing between 9 to 14 inches, with rare individuals reaching up to 20 inches. Their weight typically ranges from 1 to 6 pounds. The Brown Bullhead shares similar size characteristics, ranging from 8 to 14 inches in length and weighing between 1 to 4 pounds.
For identification, Black Bullheads are often recognized by their dark brown to black coloration on the dorsal side and pale underbelly, along with black barbels (whiskers) around the mouth and a squared-off tail fin. Yellow Bullheads are identifiable by their yellow to olive-brown body with a white or yellowish underbelly, as well as white or yellow barbels and a nearly straight caudal fin margin. The Brown Bullhead has a mottled brown and greenish hue with a pale underbelly, dusky barbels, and a slightly notched tail fin.
Bullhead Setups
Bobber
The most basic setup for bullhead fishing is the bobber rig. It includes a hook at the end of the line, with a split shot or small weight about 10 inches above the hook, and a bobber placed at the desired height above that. This rig works best in shallow water, with the key being to position the bait on or near the bottom where bullhead feed. The visual excitement of watching the bobber makes this a fun and effective way to fish for bullhead.
Slip-Sinker Rig
Many anglers use the slip-sinker rig, which has a hook at the end of the line, a swivel about 12 inches above the hook, and a slip sinker above the swivel. This setup ensures the bait reaches the bottom, while the slip sinker allows the bullhead to take the bait with minimal resistance.
Standard Bottom-Fishing Rig
I prefer using the standard bottom-fishing rig, where a sinker is tied at the end of the line, and a hook or hooks are positioned at the desired distance from the weight. This setup keeps the bait near the bottom, and any bites are felt directly through the rod tip.
Presentation
Presenting baits to bullhead is straightforward, but an active approach can increase your chances of success. Rather than simply casting out the rig and waiting, I take a more dynamic approach. After casting and setting the rod in a forked stick, I wait about 10 minutes. If there’s no bite, I reel in the rig by five feet and let it sit again for another five minutes. If there’s still no action, I repeat the process, moving the bait further until it’s too close to shore, at which point I recast.
This method allows me to cover more water and spread the scent over a larger area, improving the likelihood of attracting bullhead. It also gives me a chance to check the bait’s condition. If I get a bite or catch a bullhead, I’ll cast back to the same spot to repeat the process.
Where to Catch Bullhead
To successfully target bullhead catfish, focus on areas with muddy or sandy bottoms, as bullhead prefer these environments. Visit local bait shops for real-time updates on where bullhead are currently active. These shops interact with anglers daily, so they can offer precise info on the best locations to fish.
Another effective strategy is to drive around to different fishing spots. Keep an eye out for other anglers, and don’t hesitate to ask them about recent activity. This hands-on approach helps you locate productive areas quickly and efficiently.
Tips for Bullhead Fishing
Timing
Bullhead fishing begins as soon as the ice melts in early spring. The most productive time to target these fish is when water temperatures rise into the 50s and 60s, typically occurring in late spring. This is when bullhead become most active and begin feeding heavily after the winter months. Understanding the water temperature and timing your trips accordingly can significantly improve your chances of success.
Setup
For optimal results, using a two-hook setup is highly recommended. This rig offers two distinct opportunities to hook a fish. One hook can hold a baited offering, while the second hook increases the likelihood of a catch if the first bait is taken. This setup also comes in handy when bullhead are biting actively, as it allows for a higher chance of a double catch, maximizing your time on the water. Additionally, ensure your hooks are sharp, as bullhead have tough mouths and a dull hook can make landing them difficult.
Lines
In New York State, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) permits anglers to use up to three lines per person. While this can increase your chances of success, managing multiple lines simultaneously can become challenging if bites are frequent. It’s crucial to keep your rods organized and remain vigilant to avoid missing bites or tangling the lines. Having a fishing buddy or an organized rod holder setup can help keep things running smoothly when you’re working with multiple lines.
Bait
Fresh bait is a key factor in attracting bullhead. Night crawlers, in particular, are highly effective due to their scent, which bullhead can easily detect using their sensitive olfactory systems. When choosing bait, always prioritize freshness—stale or poorly stored bait won’t produce the same results. Additionally, using a variety of baits such as worms, minnows, or even pieces of cut bait can help you determine what the fish are most actively feeding on during the day.
Gear
When fishing for bullhead, gear organization is essential for efficiency. Two buckets with lids are a practical solution: one for storing your catch and another for bait and gear. The lids on the buckets double as seats, giving you a comfortable place to sit during longer sessions. This compact and effective storage solution reduces clutter and makes your fishing experience more enjoyable. Don’t forget to bring additional tackle, as bullhead often chew through bait quickly.
Fishing Conditions
Though bullhead are often considered nocturnal feeders, they can also be active during overcast or rainy days. Cloud cover reduces light penetration, which encourages bullhead to feed during daylight hours, making them more accessible to anglers. Keep an eye on the weather forecast before your trip, as these conditions can help you plan when to fish. Even when the sun is high, if it’s raining or cloudy, your chances of success improve.
Handling
Bullhead are equipped with sharp spines located on their dorsal and pectoral fins, which can cause severe pain if touched improperly. To avoid stings, always use protective gloves made of leather or rubber, as these materials offer the necessary protection against the spines. When handling the fish, grip it firmly around the body, never near the spines, and avoid direct contact with the fins. For added safety, use a landing net to lift the fish, ensuring minimal contact and reducing the risk of injury. If you must handle a bullhead without gloves, be sure to support the body while keeping clear of the fins.
Original Article By Captain Mike Seymour
About the Author
Captain Mike Seymour is a licensed Coast Guard Captain and NYS guide who has guided extensively on the St. Lawrence River, Black Lake, and western Alaska. He is a member and former president of the New York State Outdoor Writers’ Association and is an active writer for several publications. In addition to fishing the St. Lawrence River, he is actively fishing Lake Ontario, the Adirondacks, and the other waters of the state. Contact him at fishmike@twcny.rr.com.
This article has been revised by Daniel O’Neill, an experienced angler and writer, to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. As a result, it may no longer reflect the original author’s views or intentions.