Yellow Bullhead
Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis) are non-native freshwater catfish that have been introduced to Massachusetts waters.
These medium-sized catfish are highly tolerant of pollution and low oxygen conditions, making them common in urban waters like the Charles River.
Scientific Name: Ameiurus natalis
- These medium-sized catfish are easily distinguished from other bullheads by their white or yellow chin barbels, rounded caudal fin, and serrated pectoral spines.
- They typically measure 6-14 inches and weigh 1-4 pounds, with olive to slate-black coloration above fading to yellow-olive sides and bright yellow or white bellies.
Fishing in Massachusetts
Wachusett Reservoir
Lake Cochituate
Massachusetts Bay
Sudbury River
Concord River
Broad Sound
Lake Quinsigamond
Assabet River
Dorchester Bay
Merrimack River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- They prefer slow-moving or still waters with muddy bottoms and abundant vegetation, thriving in pools, backwaters, and shallow areas of lakes, ponds, and rivers.
Key Locations
- In Massachusetts, Yellow Bullhead are found in the Charles River system including backwater areas, Chauncy Lake and Little Chauncy Pond in Westborough/Northborough, Lake Chaubunagungamaug in Webster, Sudbury Reservoir, and various ponds in Douglas including Wallis Pond, Gilboa Pond, and Wallum Lake.
- Productive Massachusetts locations include the Charles River backwaters, shoreline areas of Lake Chaubunagungamaug, Chauncy Lake, and the various ponds in Douglas.
Specific Spots
- Target shallow areas (2-10 feet deep) with muddy bottoms near vegetation, fallen trees, or other cover structures.
Yellow Bullhead FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Yellow Bullhead in Massachusetts?
Nightcrawlers and earthworms are the most effective baits, accounting for the majority of larger catches. Other productive baits include chicken liver, cut bait, shrimp, corn, dough balls, and various prepared catfish baits.
When is the best time to fish for Yellow Bullhead in Massachusetts?
Yellow Bullhead fishing is most productive from late spring through early fall. Spring fishing focuses on warmer shallow areas and stream mouths where food concentrates. Summer fishing is best at night in shallows, though fish may be found deeper (20-40 feet) during daylight.
How do you catch Yellow Bullhead in Massachusetts?
Use simple bottom-fishing rigs. Fish muddy bottom areas near weed beds, stream inflows, culverts, and areas below dams.
What do Yellow Bullhead eat?
These nocturnal bottom-dwellers are opportunistic omnivores that feed on aquatic vegetation, insects, insect larvae, worms, crayfish, small fish, snails, and mollusks.
Where do Yellow Bullhead live in Massachusetts?
They prefer slow-moving or still waters with muddy bottoms and abundant vegetation, thriving in pools, backwaters, and shallow areas of lakes, ponds, and rivers.
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