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Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead is the most common bullhead species in Montana, though it's an introduced non-native fish with scattered populations statewide. They're primarily concentrated in small ponds and backwater sloughs of eastern Montana.

These fish are extremely tolerant of challenging conditions including high water temperatures, high turbidity, and low dissolved oxygen levels, making them well-suited to certain ponds and slow-moving waters.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus melas

Physical Characteristics:
  • Black Bullheads are distinguished by their dark-colored chin barbels, squared tail fin, and smooth or nearly smooth rear edge on pectoral fin spines.
  • They seldom exceed 1 pound in weight.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They typically inhabit turbid, mud-bottomed lakes and ponds, as well as pools and backwaters of streams.
  • Scattered populations statewide.

Key Locations

  • Can be found in various water bodies across Montana's different regions, from prairie streams to small reservoirs.
  • They're primarily concentrated in small ponds and backwater sloughs of eastern Montana.

Specific Spots

  • Target them in small ponds, backwater sloughs, pools in streams, and muddy-bottomed lakes.
  • Focus on structure like weed beds, muddy flats, and areas with organic debris where they forage for invertebrates and small prey.

Black Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Effective baits include earthworms, nightcrawlers, cut bait, minnows, bread or dough balls, and various natural baits. Jigs can also be effective, particularly small ones fished near the bottom. These fish respond well to scented baits due to their excellent sense of smell.

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

Best targeted from late spring through early fall, with peak activity occurring from May through September. Avoid fishing during their spawning period (May through early July).

How do you catch Black Bullhead in Montana?

Still fishing and drift fishing are productive techniques. Simple bottom-fishing rigs work well. Fish shallow areas during their active feeding periods.

What do Black Bullhead eat?

Adults are omnivorous, feeding primarily on aquatic insects (especially chironomidae larvae), crustaceans, mollusks, fish, and vegetation. Young bullheads feed during the day while adults are nocturnal feeders.

Where do Black Bullhead live in Montana?

They typically inhabit turbid, mud-bottomed lakes and ponds, as well as pools and backwaters of streams. Scattered populations statewide.

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