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Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish are not native to Colorado but have been introduced as a non-indigenous species, with documented occurrences from 1952-2009.

They are the largest North American catfish species and are highly migratory, moving to warmer waters in winter and cooler waters in summer.

Scientific Name: Ictalurus furcatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Blue Catfish are capable of exceeding 165 cm in length and 45 kg in weight.
  • They have bluish to grayish coloration with a deeply forked tail and straight-edged anal fin (distinguishing them from channel catfish).

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Colorado, Blue Catfish are found primarily in reservoirs rather than rivers.
  • They prefer open waters of large reservoirs with deep channels and can tolerate some salinity.

Key Locations

  • Adobe Creek Reservoir is a notable location where they provide good fishing opportunities alongside channel catfish and crappie.
  • Found in five hydrologic units: San Luis, South Platte, Upper Arkansas, Upper Arkansas-John Martin Reservoir, and Upper Arkansas-Lake Meredith.

Specific Spots

  • Target deep channels and pools (15-45 feet deep) with rapid drop-offs.
  • Look for submerged cover like stumps, laydown logs, and large rocks.
  • During winter, concentrate on the deepest areas (30-45 feet) where water temperatures are most stable.
  • In reservoirs, focus on main lake points, creek channels, and areas with standing timber or other structure.

Blue Catfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Blue Catfish in Colorado?

The most effective baits are cut skipjack herring, shad chunks (cut into 1-inch squares), and other fresh cut baitfish.

When is the best time to fish for Blue Catfish in Colorado?

Winter through early spring (December-March) for trophy-class fish, and late spring through early summer (April-June) for numbers and active feeding fish. Avoid targeting them during spawning periods (late May-July).

How do you catch Blue Catfish in Colorado?

Use heavy-duty bottom fishing techniques with Carolina rigs. Fish the outer edges of channel banks and target areas where current brings food to waiting catfish. Boat fishing is more successful than shore fishing, though shore anglers can succeed particularly for the abundant catfish populations.

What do Blue Catfish eat?

These opportunistic omnivores feed on a variety of prey including fish, crayfish, freshwater mussels, aquatic insects, and invertebrates. Juveniles start with small invertebrates and zooplankton, transitioning to fish as they grow beyond 10 inches.

Where do Blue Catfish live in Colorado?

In Colorado, Blue Catfish are found primarily in reservoirs rather than rivers. They prefer open waters of large reservoirs with deep channels and can tolerate some salinity.

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