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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead are native freshwater catfish widely distributed throughout New Jersey waters. These hardy bottom-dwelling fish have established populations in the state's ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, and reservoirs.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

Also known as horned pout, hornpout, mud cat, mud pout

Physical Characteristics:
  • Brown Bullheads are distinguished by their mottled brown coloration, dark chin barbels, squared-off tail fin, and broad flat head with eight whiskers around the mouth.
  • They typically grow 8-14 inches on average but can reach up to 20 inches and weigh 1-7 pounds in New Jersey waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • These fish are widely distributed throughout New Jersey waters including ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, and reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • In New Jersey, specific populations can be found at locations like Big Brook Park in Marlboro, Holmdel Park, Manasquan Reservoir in Howell, Perrineville Lake Park in Millstone, Thompson Park in Lincroft, Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold, and numerous Monmouth County park waters.

Specific Spots

  • Target slow-moving waters with abundant vegetation and muddy bottoms, focusing on areas near logs, stumps, rocks, or other cover.
  • Fish in shallow, weedy areas near vegetation lines and structure.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

The most productive baits include nightcrawlers (especially those soaked in pickled beet juice for bright red color), chicken livers, cut bait, minnows, corn, cheese, dough balls, and stink baits. Worms gathered from compost piles work particularly well due to their strong scent.

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

The optimal fishing season runs from spring through fall, with particularly good action after the spawning period ends in late June through early fall.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in New Jersey?

Keep bait presentations on or very close to the bottom since Brown Bullheads are strict bottom feeders. Fish from shore or small boats in shallow, weedy areas during cooler evening temperatures. Cast near vegetation lines and structure.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

Brown Bullheads are omnivorous bottom feeders with poor eyesight who rely heavily on their barbels to locate food. Their diet includes worms, leeches, aquatic plants, insects, small fish, fish e.g.gs, snails, crayfish, and even corn.

Where do Brown Bullhead live in New Jersey?

These fish are widely distributed throughout New Jersey waters including ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, and reservoirs.

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