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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead are native to Michigan's Great Lakes region and are widely distributed throughout the state's waters. These bottom-dwelling catfish are exceptionally hardy fish, tolerating low oxygen levels down to 0.

2 ppm, high water temperatures up to 97°F, and polluted conditions that would kill other species.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their mottled brown coloration, eight dark barbels around their mouths, and square-tailed profile that differentiates them from channel catfish.
  • In Michigan, they typically reach 8-14 inches, though specimens up to 21 inches and 3.77 pounds have been recorded.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit warm, shallow waters with muddy or sandy bottoms, preferring areas with abundant vegetation in ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and river backwaters.

Key Locations

  • They're found throughout Michigan's Northern Lake Michigan Management Unit waters, including numerous lakes and ponds in counties like Alger, Delta, Dickinson, Iron, Marquette, Mackinac, Menominee, and Schoolcraft.
  • Specific productive waters include many small lakes and impoundments where they're marked with 'X' for bullhead presence.
  • Michigan state record from Alcona Dam Pond.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on areas near shorelines, coves, creek mouths, and backwater areas of rivers and streams.
  • Target areas with structure like downed logs, stumps, or rocks.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

The most effective baits include nightcrawlers, worms, cut bait, minnows, chicken livers, doughballs, and stinkbaits, all fished on or near the bottom. Small jigs can also produce results.

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

Can be caught year-round in Michigan. Most productive during late spring through summer months. Spawn from late spring to early summer (May-June) when water temperatures reach 70°F.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in Michigan?

Both still fishing and drift fishing techniques are effective. Fish on or near the bottom.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

These omnivorous bottom-feeders consume aquatic plants, algae, insects, worms, small fish, fish e.g.gs, mollusks, crayfish, and even corn.

Where do Brown Bullhead live in Michigan?

They inhabit warm, shallow waters with muddy or sandy bottoms, preferring areas with abundant vegetation in ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and river backwaters.

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