Black Bullhead
The Black Bullhead is a small but resilient catfish species native to Arkansas, found throughout the Arkansas River system and numerous lakes, ponds, and backwater areas.
These fish are exceptionally tolerant, thriving in warm, turbid waters with low oxygen levels where other species struggle.
Scientific Name: Ameiurus melas
- Distinguished from other bullheads by their dark chin barbels, squared-off tail with a slight notch, and tan crescent around the tail base.
- They typically average 8-14 inches and 1-2 pounds, though some reach up to 6 pounds.
Fishing in Arkansas
Lake Conway
Arkansas River
Fourche LaFave River
Bayou Meto
Greers Ferry Lake
Lake Dardanelle
Petit Jean River
Little Red River
Saline River
Lake Ouachita
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found throughout the Arkansas River system and numerous lakes, ponds, and backwater areas.
- Found in the Arkansas River, riparian wetlands, oxbow lakes, farm ponds, and backwater areas throughout the state.
Key Locations
- Arkansas River, riparian wetlands, oxbow lakes, farm ponds, Point Remove Creek, Lake Atalanta, Veterans Park pond, and Arkansas River pools.
Specific Spots
- Target them in Arkansas River backwaters, shallow vegetated lake edges, farm ponds, and areas around piers, docks, and dam tailwaters.
- Fish near structure like submerged logs, brush piles, undercut banks, and vegetated areas in 2-6 feet of water.
- They're particularly abundant in confined spaces like lake outlets, areas below dams, and heavily vegetated shallow waters with soft, muddy bottoms.
- Focus on areas with soft bottoms and minimal current.
Black Bullhead FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Black Bullhead in Arkansas?
Nightcrawlers (especially those soaked in pickled beet juice for bright red color), chicken liver, cut bait, minnows, corn, bread balls, and catalpa worms. They occasionally strike small jigs.
When is the best time to fish for Black Bullhead in Arkansas?
Most productive from July through early April, avoiding the spawning season from April through June. Spawn from April through June when water temperatures reach 68-72°F.
How do you catch Black Bullhead in Arkansas?
Still fishing is the primary technique, though they occasionally strike small jigs. Simple bottom rigs work best - use a sliding sinker setup.
What do Black Bullhead eat?
These omnivorous bottom-feeders consume midge larvae, small fish, fish e.g.gs, crayfish, aquatic insects, worms, and plant material.
Where do Black Bullhead live in Arkansas?
Found throughout the Arkansas River system and numerous lakes, ponds, and backwater areas. Found in the Arkansas River, riparian wetlands, oxbow lakes, farm ponds, and backwater areas throughout the state.
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