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Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish are an introduced warm water species in New Mexico, commonly found in the state's lakes, rivers, and reservoirs.

Scientific Name: Ictalurus punctatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish are characterized by their deeply forked tail, 8 barbels (whiskers), and distinctive body shape that can reach up to 36 inches.
  • In New Mexico waters, they typically range from 1-5 pounds, though larger specimens are occasionally caught.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Commonly found in the state's lakes, rivers, and reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • In New Mexico, they're commonly found in waters like Cochiti Lake, Rio Grande, Navajo Lake, Elephant Butte Lake, Morgan Lake, Jackson Lake, Tiger Lake near Aztec, and various other reservoirs throughout the state.
  • Specific productive waters include the Rio Grande system, Cochiti Lake, Elephant Butte Lake, Navajo Lake, and smaller waters like Tiger Lake and Jackson Lake near Aztec.

Specific Spots

  • Targeting areas near riprap, current breaks, shallow flats, edges where faster water meets slow water, and structure like submerged logs or standing timber.
  • Spending daylight hours in deeper pools near boulders, submerged logs, or other cover.

Channel Catfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Channel Catfish in New Mexico?

Prepared baits, especially "punch baits" like CJ's Catfish Punch Bait, Sudden Impact Fiber Bait, and Sure Shot Catfish Punch Bait, are extremely effective for targeting numbers of Channel Catfish.

What flies work for Channel Catfish in New Mexico?

For fly fishing, woolly buggers (especially bead head versions in sizes 6-4), balanced leeches, weighted crawfish patterns, and clousers work well. Effective colors include black, olive, chartreuse, white, brown, and even bright pinks and yellows.

When is the best time to fish for Channel Catfish in New Mexico?

The most productive fishing for Channel Catfish in New Mexico occurs during summer months (June-August) when water temperatures are optimal for their metabolism and feeding activity.

How do you catch Channel Catfish in New Mexico?

Focus on fishing in 5 feet of water or less. In reservoirs, fish deeper water during the day and move to shallow feeding areas at dusk.

What do Channel Catfish eat?

Channel Catfish are opportunistic omnivores. They feed primarily on aquatic invertebrates, small fish (especially cyprinids like minnows), crayfish, mollusks, insect larvae, and occasional aquatic vegetation.

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