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Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead are introduced freshwater catfish found throughout Massachusetts, though they are not native to the region.

These are extremely hardy fish that tolerate polluted waters, low oxygen, and high temperatures better than most species, which allows them to thrive in degraded water conditions where other fish cannot survive.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus melas

Physical Characteristics:
  • These stocky, scaleless fish typically range 6-14 inches and 1-2 pounds, with some reaching up to 25 inches.
  • They have distinctive dark-colored barbels (whiskers), squared or slightly notched tails, and lack the serrated pectoral spines found on brown bullhead.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Massachusetts, black bullhead inhabit slow-moving rivers, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs with murky water and soft mud bottoms.
  • They avoid clear, clean water and are most abundant in turbid, weedy areas with abundant organic matter.

Key Locations

  • Hot spots include Furnace Pond, Jacobs Pond, and Scituate Main Reservoir on the South Shore, plus numerous other water bodies throughout the state listed in fishing guides.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow bays and areas near shore structure like piers, docks, and weed beds during evening and night hours.
  • Focus on muddy bottom areas with soft substrates, especially near inflowing streams or culverts that bring food.
  • In spring, concentrate on the warmest water areas as fish prepare for spawning.
  • During summer, fish deeper weed lines and drop-offs during the day, then move shallow at night.

Black Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Nightcrawlers and earthworms are the most productive baits - two-thirds of trophy bullhead in similar regions are caught on worms. Other highly effective baits include chicken liver, dead shiners, cut bait, shrimp, leeches, and various stink baits.

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

Prime fishing season runs from June through September. Avoid fishing during late spring spawning period when water temperatures reach 70-77°F as fish are focused on reproduction rather than feeding.

How do you catch Black Bullhead in Massachusetts?

Let the fish mouth the bait for several seconds before setting the hook due to their tough mouths. Focus on smelly baits as black bullhead rely heavily on scent, so avoid artificial lures.

What do Black Bullhead eat?

Black bullhead are opportunistic omnivores with an estimated 100,000 taste buds covering their bodies. Their diet includes nightcrawlers, insects and larvae (especially chironomids), small fish and fish e.g.gs, crayfish, snails, leeches, aquatic worms, plant material, and virtually any organic matter.

Where do Black Bullhead live in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, black bullhead inhabit slow-moving rivers, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs with murky water and soft mud bottoms. They avoid clear, clean water and are most abundant in turbid, weedy areas with abundant organic matter.

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