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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) in Arkansas are classified as imperiled with an S2 conservation status by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, indicating they are uncommon in the state despite being globally secure.

These bottom-dwelling catfish have sporadic distribution across Arkansas.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Brown Bullheads are distinguished by their dark brown to black chin barbels, mottled brown coloration, and squared-off tail fins.
  • They typically grow 8-14 inches and weigh up to 2 pounds, though larger specimens have been recorded.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in multiple ecobasins including the Arkansas Valley, Mississippi River Alluvial Plain, Ouachita Mountains, and South Central Plains regions.
  • They inhabit quiet streams with aquatic vegetation, medium-sized pools, and slow-moving waters with muddy conditions.
  • Fish slow-moving waters with vegetation, muddy bottomed areas, and quiet stream pools throughout the Arkansas Valley and Mississippi River floodplain regions.

Key Locations

  • Focus on Lakes Dunn and Austell in Village Creek State Park near Wynne, which are among Arkansas's best bullhead waters where 2+ pound specimens are regularly caught.

Specific Spots

  • Target around submerged timber, fallen trees, beaver lodges, stumps, and vegetated areas.
  • Target depths from shallow shoreline areas to deeper holes, particularly around creek channels, riprap banks, and timbered reaches.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Brown Bullhead in Arkansas?

Most effective baits include nightcrawlers (especially those from compost piles for stronger scent), chicken livers, corn, cut bait, minnows, and bread balls.

When is the best time to fish for Brown Bullhead in Arkansas?

Late spring through fall when they're most active, avoiding the April-June spawning period.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in Arkansas?

Fish directly on the bottom using still fishing or drift fishing techniques. Evening fishing is most productive when water temperatures are cooler.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

As omnivorous bottom feeders, they consume insects, crustaceans, small fish, worms, leeches, vegetation, snails, and corn.

Where do Brown Bullhead live in Arkansas?

Found in multiple ecobasins including the Arkansas Valley, Mississippi River Alluvial Plain, Ouachita Mountains, and South Central Plains regions. They inhabit quiet streams with aquatic vegetation, medium-sized pools, and slow-moving waters with muddy conditions.

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