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Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis) is a non-native species in Montana, introduced from the Midwest into scattered locations, primarily in southeast Montana.

These bottom-dwelling catfish are exceptionally hardy, tolerating high water temperatures and low dissolved oxygen levels that would stress other species.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus natalis

Physical Characteristics:

Distinguished by their yellowish-brown to yellow coloration with white or creamy chin barbels, they're smaller than other bullheads, typically reaching 6-14 inches and weighing up to 2 pounds, though Montana's state record stands at 1.

91 pounds from Tongue River Reservoir.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

They prefer weedy, shallow, clear-water areas of lakes and slow-moving streams with muck, rock, sand, or clay substrates.

Key Locations

Prime Montana locations include Tongue River Reservoir (which holds trophy-sized fish over 20 pounds), the lower Yellowstone River system from Huntley eastward, and various small ponds and backwater areas throughout southeast Montana. The species has established populations in various Montana waters including the Yellowstone River drainage, Tongue River system, and scattered locations in the Clark Fork and Flathead drainages.

Specific Spots

Target shallow, weedy areas of lakes, slow-moving stream pools, and backwater sloughs with soft bottoms. Fish near structure like sunken logs, rock piles, docks, and vegetation beds during evening and night hours. When fly fishing, focus on areas with thick vegetation.

Yellow Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Worms, crickets, chicken liver, cut bait, dough balls, or minnows. Small jigs are also effective.

What flies work for Yellow Bullhead in Montana?

San Juan Worms, Girdle Bugs, or other bottom-bouncing nymphs with sufficient weight to reach their feeding zone.

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

Most productive from late July through October after their spawning period ends. Yellow Bullheads are particularly active during warm summer months and can be caught consistently through fall.

How do you catch Yellow Bullhead in Montana?

Multiple techniques including bait casting, drift fishing, still fishing, spin casting, and even fly fishing when using weighted flies to reach bottom depths. Fish bait on the bottom.

What do Yellow Bullhead eat?

Yellow Bullheads are opportunistic omnivorous feeders. Their diet consists mainly of aquatic insects, mollusks, crayfish, small fish, worms, and aquatic vegetation - consuming more plant matter than other bullhead species.

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