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Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead are widespread and abundant throughout Kansas, found in nearly all streams, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs across the state.

These are extremely hardy fish that can survive in poor water conditions, low oxygen, and high temperatures that would kill other species.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus melas

Physical Characteristics:
  • These stocky catfish are brown to green in color with a squared or slightly notched tail that distinguishes them from channel catfish.
  • They're smaller than other catfish species, typically weighing 1-2 pounds, though Kansas's state record stands at 7 pounds, 5 ounces.
  • Black bullheads have completely dark barbels (whiskers) and lack the serrated pectoral spines of brown bullheads.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in nearly all streams, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs across the state.

Key Locations

  • Kansas waters with excellent black bullhead populations include Cedar Bluff, Sebelius, Kirwin, and numerous state fishing lakes like Gridley City Lake, Sabetha City Lake, and Douglas SFL.
  • Productive Kansas locations include the shallows of state fishing lakes, city lakes, and quiet backwater areas of reservoirs.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on areas with soft substrates, vegetation, and structure like fallen logs or overhanging banks where they naturally feed and shelter during daylight hours.
  • Fish shallow bays, vegetated areas, and muddy bottoms in 1-4 feet of water.

Black Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Black Bullhead in Kansas?

Since black bullheads rely heavily on smell and taste through their barbels and taste buds covering their entire body, use the stinkiest baits possible. Top natural baits include nightcrawlers, leeches, crickets, and minnows.

When is the best time to fish for Black Bullhead in Kansas?

Best fishing occurs from late spring through early fall, avoiding the May-July spawning period. In winter, they become sluggish and may bury themselves in bottom sediments, making them less active targets.

How do you catch Black Bullhead in Kansas?

Let baits sit on the bottom and allow fish to mouth the bait before setting the hook, as bullheads often swallow hooks deeply. Fish shallow bays, vegetated areas, and muddy bottoms in 1-4 feet of water.

What do Black Bullhead eat?

They're omnivorous bottom feeders that consume insects, larvae (especially midge larvae), small fish, fish e.g.gs, crayfish, worms, and even vegetation.

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