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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead in Mississippi are native to the Mississippi River basin and can be found throughout the state's freshwater systems. These hardy catfish are extremely tolerant of poor water conditions, surviving in waters with dissolved oxygen as low as 0.

2 ppm and temperatures up to 97°F.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These hardy catfish are distinguished by their mottled brown coloration, dark chin barbels, serrated pectoral spines with 5-8 saw-like teeth, and square to slightly notched tails.
  • They typically measure 8-12 inches but can grow up to 21 inches and weigh up to 7.375 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Brown Bullhead in Mississippi are native to the Mississippi River basin and can be found throughout the state's freshwater systems.

Key Locations

  • Mississippi River itself and various pools like Pool 9 and Pool 11.
  • For Mississippi River fishing, focus on deep holes behind wing dikes where channel catfish and brown bullheads congregate in current breaks and eddies.

Specific Spots

  • Target slow-moving sections of rivers, backwater areas, pools behind wing dikes on the Mississippi River, oxbow lakes, ponds, and vegetated shallow areas.
  • In pools and backwaters, fish around fallen trees, vegetation edges, and soft bottom areas.
  • Target areas with depths from 1-15 feet depending on the water body.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

The most effective baits include nightcrawlers, cut bait, live or dead minnows, leeches, crickets, chicken livers, and unconventional options like corn, cheese, hot dogs, bread, and marshmallows.

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

Brown bullhead fishing in Mississippi is most productive from spring through fall, with peak action during warmer months when they're most active. During spawning season (late spring through summer), fishing pressure should be reduced to allow successful reproduction.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in Mississippi?

Keep bait fresh and ensure hooks remain sharp and exposed since brown bullheads have bony mouths. Fish during stable or falling water conditions when possible. Early morning and evening can be productive even during daylight hours.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

Brown bullheads are omnivorous bottom feeders with an exceptional diet range including algae, leeches, worms, mollusks, crustaceans, insects, crayfish, small fish, fish e.g.gs, and even corn used as bait.

Where do Brown Bullhead live in Mississippi?

Brown Bullhead in Mississippi are native to the Mississippi River basin and can be found throughout the state's freshwater systems.

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