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Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish are a large, invasive species now present in New Jersey waters, particularly in the Delaware River watershed.

The species poses a significant threat to native fish populations, including the endangered Atlantic sturgeon, as they can consume juvenile sturgeon and other native species.

Scientific Name: Ictalurus furcatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These powerful fish can grow up to 5 feet long and weigh over 100 pounds, with the world record being 143 pounds.
  • Blue catfish are distinguished from channel catfish by their straight-edged anal fin (versus curved), deeply forked tail with pointed lobes, and lack of spots on their silvery-blue bodies.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They tolerate brackish water up to 15 PSU, allowing them to spread throughout tidal areas.
  • Likely arriving through the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal from established Chesapeake Bay populations.

Key Locations

  • New Jersey's Delaware River and its tributaries.
  • They've been documented in the Delaware River and tributaries like Lower Alloways Creek in Salem County.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on depths of 10-20 feet near drop-offs, fishing from shoreline out to 45 feet of water.

Blue Catfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Blue Catfish in New Jersey?

Fresh cut baits work best, particularly menhaden cut into ½ to ¾ inch steaks, menhaden heads for larger fish, squid strips, large shrimp, cut perch, live or cut small bluegills, gizzard shad, mullet, and 3-4 inch pieces of cut eel. Some anglers use chicken breast strips, even marinated in Kool-Aid.

When is the best time to fish for Blue Catfish in New Jersey?

The best fishing occurs from March through May and again in fall, avoiding the April-June spawning period when fish are guarding nests and feeding less.

How do you catch Blue Catfish in New Jersey?

Fan-cast baits 30-40 feet around the boat to cover different depths. Change baits frequently since catfish locate food by scent, cutting old bait into small pieces to use as chum.

What do Blue Catfish eat?

They're voracious predators consuming 2-5% of their body weight daily during peak feeding season, with diets including menhaden, shad, river herring, blue crabs, perch, and even small turtles.

Where do Blue Catfish live in New Jersey?

They tolerate brackish water up to 15 PSU, allowing them to spread throughout tidal areas. Likely arriving through the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal from established Chesapeake Bay populations.

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New Jersey licenses and regulations

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