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Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis) are abundant in Kansas waters, with the state holding an S5 conservation ranking, indicating secure populations.

These small catfish are native to Kansas and widely distributed across the state, particularly in southern and central regions.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus natalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Yellow bullheads are easily identified by their distinctive yellow to white chin barbels, unlike brown and black bullheads which have dark barbels.
  • They typically reach 6-14 inches and 1-4 pounds, with their coloration ranging from yellow-olive to brown dorsally with lighter yellow-olive sides and yellow to white bellies.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer shallow, weedy waters including slow-moving streams, backwaters, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs with soft bottoms.

Key Locations

  • In Kansas, they're commonly found in state fishing lakes, farm ponds, and the quieter sections of rivers and streams.
  • In Kansas, productive waters include state fishing lakes, farm ponds, and quieter sections of streams and rivers throughout the state.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on shallow, weedy areas of lakes and ponds, creek backwaters, slow river pools, and areas with soft bottoms.
  • Target depths of 2-30 feet, concentrating on areas with vegetation, submerged logs, or rocky cover.

Yellow Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Top choices include live or dead worms (especially nightcrawlers), minnows, cut bait, chicken liver, corn, dough balls. Since bullheads rely heavily on their exceptional sense of smell and taste, use strongly scented baits.

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

Yellow bullheads bite best from spring through fall, with peak activity occurring at night during summer months. They spawn from April through June when water temperatures reach 73-82°F.

How do you catch Yellow Bullhead in Kansas?

For best results, cast near vegetation edges, drop-offs, or structure and allow baits to sit on bottom. Fish during overcast conditions or in turbid water during daylight hours.

What do Yellow Bullhead eat?

Yellow bullheads are opportunistic omnivores and scavengers that feed primarily at night, consuming worms, minnows, insects, crayfish, aquatic invertebrates, and vegetation. Young bullheads focus mainly on aquatic invertebrates.

Where do Yellow Bullhead live in Kansas?

They prefer shallow, weedy waters including slow-moving streams, backwaters, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs with soft bottoms.

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