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Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead are native to Nebraska and found statewide in a variety of waters. These stocky, scaleless catfish are hardy fish that tolerate poor water quality, high temperatures up to 30°C, and low oxygen conditions better than most species.

Their ability to survive in degraded conditions means they often dominate muddy, vegetated waters where other species struggle.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus melas

Physical Characteristics:
  • These stocky, scaleless catfish are distinguished by their dark olive to yellow-brown coloration, 8 black barbels around the mouth, and slightly notched tail fin.
  • The species can grow up to 620mm but typically stays under 200mm in Nebraska waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found statewide in Nebraska.
  • They inhabit everything from small farm ponds to major reservoirs.
  • These fish prefer pools, backwaters, and slow currents over soft substrates in creeks, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • Major reservoirs like Merritt Reservoir, where they're listed among secondary species.

Specific Spots

  • Fish muddy-bottomed areas with vegetation, shallow coves, inlet areas, and around docks or structure.
  • Target depths of 3-10 feet in lakes and slack water areas in rivers and streams.

Black Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Top baits include nightcrawlers, chicken livers, cut bait, minnows, bread balls, and even corn or dough balls. Worms soaked in pickled beet juice add visual appeal in murky water. Small jigs tipped with worms or minnows for ice fishing.

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

The prime fishing season for Black Bullhead in Nebraska runs from August through September. At Merritt Reservoir, the bullhead bite peaks from August 1st through September 30th. Ice fishing can be productive in winter using small jigs tipped with worms or minnows.

How do you catch Black Bullhead in Nebraska?

Keep bait on or near the bottom where bullheads feed. Still fishing and drift fishing are effective techniques.

What do Black Bullhead eat?

Black Bullhead are omnivorous bottom feeders with a diverse diet including aquatic insects (especially chironomidae larvae), small crustaceans, plant material, small fish, and invertebrates. They're opportunistic feeders that primarily hunt at night using their barbel-covered taste buds to locate food.

Where do Black Bullhead live in Nebraska?

Found statewide in Nebraska. They inhabit everything from small farm ponds to major reservoirs. These fish prefer pools, backwaters, and slow currents over soft substrates in creeks, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs.

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