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Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis) are medium-sized bullhead catfish found throughout Michigan. These hardy fish can tolerate low oxygen, high pollution, and temperatures over 90°F, making them abundant in Michigan's shallow, weedy waters with muddy bottoms.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus natalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Medium-sized bullhead catfish distinguished from other bullheads by their white or yellow chin barbels, rounded tail fins, and 24-27 anal fin rays.
  • State record being 3.6 pounds and 16.8 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout Michigan in lakes, ponds, river backwaters, and slow current areas throughout the state.

Key Locations

  • Lake Sixteen in Oakland County, Wabascon Lake in Calhoun County, Four Mile Lake in Washtenaw County.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow areas (under 15 feet) with muddy bottoms, especially around weed beds, inflowing streams, culverts, and areas below dams.
  • Target areas with abundant aquatic vegetation, soft substrates, and cover like logs or rocks.

Yellow Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Nightcrawlers (which account for two-thirds of Michigan Master Angler awards for bullheads), chicken liver, shrimp, dead minnows, crayfish, cut bait, waxworms, and various grocery store items like cheese, hot dogs, and corn.

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

Peak fishing from late spring through early fall when temperatures reach 60-80°F. In spring, focus on the warmest shallow areas and stream mouths. Summer fishing is productive in 20-40 foot depths during the day, moving to shallows at night.

How do you catch Yellow Bullhead in Michigan?

Employ still fishing, drift fishing, or bait casting techniques. For fly fishing, use weighted flies to reach bottom depths where bullheads feed.

What do Yellow Bullhead eat?

Opportunistic feeders consuming insects, worms, crayfish, small fish, aquatic vegetation, snails, and various invertebrates, with feeding activity primarily occurring at night.

Where do Yellow Bullhead live in Michigan?

Found throughout Michigan in lakes, ponds, river backwaters, and slow current areas throughout the state.

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