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Flathead Catfish

Flathead Catfish

Flathead catfish are non-native to New Mexico but have established populations in several key water bodies since their first recorded introduction in 1938.

These apex predators are obligate piscivores, feeding almost exclusively on live fish once they exceed 10 inches in length. Unlike other catfish species, they show little interest in dead baits or stink baits, preferring live prey.

They're primarily nocturnal hunters but will feed opportunistically during daylight hours.

Scientific Name: Pylodictis olivaris

Physical Characteristics:
  • These apex predators are distinguished by their wide, flattened heads, projecting lower jaws, and olive to yellow-brown coloration with mottled patterns.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has documented flathead catfish presence in three main hydrologic units: the San Francisco River, Upper Gila system, and Upper Gila-Mangas areas, with observations spanning from 1949 to 2015.
  • In New Mexico, flatheads inhabit deep pools in rivers and the deeper areas of reservoirs.
  • They prefer slack to slow-moving water.

Key Locations

  • Target the Lower Gila River wilderness section between Grapevine Campground and Turkey Creek, accessing via Forest Service trails or outfitters like Billy Lee (505-536-9685).
  • The Middle Gila Box below Cliff and Gila villages offers excellent fishing with easier access via FSR 809 from Bill Evans Lake.
  • Elephant Butte Reservoir produces trophy flatheads.
  • Prime habitat includes the Lower Gila River system, Elephant Butte Reservoir, and the Rio Grande.

Specific Spots

  • Particularly favoring areas with significant cover such as fallen logs, undercut banks, rocky areas, and debris piles.
  • In Elephant Butte Reservoir, particularly around deep structure and using fish finders to locate fish in 20-30 feet of water.

Flathead Catfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Live bait is absolutely critical - use live shad, sunfish, bullheads, bluegill, or carp averaging 8-10 inches for trophy fish. In the Gila River, live crayfish caught by flipping rocks and hellgrammites (pinky-finger sized aquatic insects) are deadly.

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

Prime flathead catfish season in New Mexico runs from late July through October, with September and October offering the absolute best action as fish feed heavily before winter. Post-spawn feeding resumes heavily in late July and continues strongly through October as fish prepare for winter dormancy.

How do you catch Flathead Catfish in New Mexico?

Use slip sinker rigs allowing live bait to swim freely just above bottom structure. Pre-bait holes in Elephant Butte by fermenting wheat or milo in buckets and establishing feeding areas in 20-30 feet of water, returning every few days to add more bait before fishing.

What do Flathead Catfish eat?

Flatheads are obligate piscivores, feeding almost exclusively on live fish once they exceed 10 inches in length. They prefer live prey including sunfish, bullheads, carp, suckers, and other catfish species. Juveniles under 4 inches consume insects, larvae, and crayfish before transitioning to fish.

Where do Flathead Catfish live in New Mexico?

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish has documented flathead catfish presence in three main hydrologic units: the San Francisco River, Upper Gila system, and Upper Gila-Mangas areas, with observations spanning from 1949 to 2015.

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