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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead are the most common catfish species in Delaware waters, found statewide in abundant numbers.

These hardy bottom-dwelling fish are exceptionally tolerant of poor water conditions, surviving in warm water with low oxygen levels where other species struggle, making them particularly successful as ponds age and water quality declines.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Typically grow 6-10 inches in Delaware, though they can reach up to 20 inches.
  • Distinguished by their dark brown to olive coloration with mottled sides, flattened tail with slight indent, and distinctive dark blackish barbels (whiskers) that differentiate them from Yellow Bullheads which have whitish barbels.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Delaware's Brown Bullheads inhabit diverse waters from murky shallow ponds and ditches to deeper streams, rivers, and reservoirs throughout the state.

Key Locations

  • Found statewide in Delaware waters including shallow ponds and ditches to deeper streams, rivers, and reservoirs throughout the state.

Specific Spots

  • Target slow-moving waters with vegetation and soft mud or sand bottoms.
  • Focus on areas with soft substrates where they naturally forage.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Nightcrawlers and earthworms are highly effective, particularly worms from compost piles which have stronger scents. Other productive baits include any commercial catfish baits, cut bait, minnows, corn, and dough balls. Small jigs bounced along the bottom.

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

Year-round fishing. Best fishing occurs during warmer months from late spring through summer when water temperatures are optimal.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in Delaware?

Still fishing and drift fishing techniques are most successful. Fish directly on the bottom using simple bottom rigs. Small jigs can also be effective when bounced along the bottom.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

These nocturnal omnivores are opportunistic bottom-feeders feeding on aquatic insects, crustaceans, vegetative matter, worms, small fish, and fish e.g.gs.

Where do Brown Bullhead live in Delaware?

Delaware's Brown Bullheads inhabit diverse waters from murky shallow ponds and ditches to deeper streams, rivers, and reservoirs throughout the state.

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