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Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis) are widespread and occasionally abundant in all river systems of Alabama, making them one of the state's most accessible catfish species.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus natalis

Also known as yellow cat

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their white or yellow chin barbels, straight-edged anal fin with 24-28 rays, and five to eight fairly large teeth on the posterior edge of each pectoral spine.
  • Adults typically range from 6-15 inches, with a maximum size around 15 inches.
  • Their coloration varies from yellow, olive, or dark gray on the back, grading to light yellow or white on the belly.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Widespread and occasionally abundant in all river systems of Alabama.
  • They prefer medium-sized to small streams, backwaters, and swamps characterized by slow-moving currents, sand and silt substrates, and varying amounts of aquatic vegetation.
  • They tolerate poor water quality, making them accessible in many urban and rural waterways throughout the state.

Key Locations

  • Alabama's river systems including the Mobile, Tensaw, Alabama, Coosa, and Tallapoosa rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with muddy bottoms, aquatic vegetation, slow currents, and structure like submerged logs or debris piles.
  • Focus efforts around creek mouths, backwaters, and deep holes along outside river bends.
  • Look for them in slower sections with soft substrates and varying amounts of vegetation.

Yellow Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Yellow Bullhead in Alabama?

Live or dead minnows, worms (especially those soaked in pickled beet juice for color), crickets, leeches, chicken liver, corn, cheese, hot dogs, and white bread.

When is the best time to fish for Yellow Bullhead in Alabama?

Best targeted from late spring through fall. This spawning period should be avoided by anglers to allow successful reproduction (typically in April and May when water temperatures reach 70°F (21°C)).

How do you catch Yellow Bullhead in Alabama?

Yellow bullheads are best targeted from late spring through fall, with peak activity occurring at night when they feed most actively. Since they're primarily nocturnal feeders, fishing after dusk dramatically improves success rates.

What do Yellow Bullhead eat?

They're opportunistic feeders that consume worms, crayfish, insects, small minnows, and quantities of aquatic vegetation and sediments. Compared to other bullheads, yellow bullheads consume more aquatic vegetation.

Where do Yellow Bullhead live in Alabama?

Widespread and occasionally abundant in all river systems of Alabama. They prefer medium-sized to small streams, backwaters, and swamps characterized by slow-moving currents, sand and silt substrates, and varying amounts of aquatic vegetation.

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