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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead are the most common and widely distributed bullhead catfish species in New York, found in all watersheds throughout the state. They are remarkably hardy, tolerating low oxygen levels (as low as 0.

2 ppm), heavy pollution, and extreme water conditions that would kill other fish species.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

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

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their dark brown to black barbels (whiskers), mottled brown coloration with yellowish belly, square tail with no notch, and 21-24 anal fin rays.
  • Adults typically measure 8-14 inches and weigh up to 2 pounds, though some can reach 18 inches and over 7 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit diverse waters from cool Adirondack lakes to warm ponds, slow-moving streams, reservoirs, muddy backwaters, and even drainage ditches.
  • Found in all watersheds throughout New York state.

Key Locations

  • St.
  • Lawrence River, Finger Lakes, Oneida Lake, Lake Ontario, Hudson River, North-South Lake, Greens Lake, Colgate Lake, Almond Reservoir, Sanford Lake, Mexico Point on Lake Ontario, Cleveland on Oneida Lake, northeastern shore of Delta Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Look for them along shorelines of lakes in shallow bays, inlets, near tributary stream mouths, and areas with muddy bottoms and vegetation.
  • They spawn in dark, shallow locations under logs or rocks.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Night crawlers are the top bait choice - soak them in pickled beet juice for bright red coloration that attracts attention in murky water, or use worms gathered from compost piles for their stronger scent.

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

Spring pre-spawning periods are peak fishing times. They spawn from April to June when water temperatures reach 65-80°F.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in New York?

Use a simple bottom setup with an e.g.g sinker (1/8-1/4 ounce), barrel swivel, and small circle hook (#4 to 1/0) tied drop-shot style above the weight. Fish close to the bottom and keep your hook point exposed for better hooksets through their bony mouths.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

These omnivorous bottom feeders consume worms, leeches, insects, small fish, mollusks, crayfish, snails, vegetation, and even corn.

Where do Brown Bullhead live in New York?

They inhabit diverse waters from cool Adirondack lakes to warm ponds, slow-moving streams, reservoirs, muddy backwaters, and even drainage ditches. Found in all watersheds throughout New York state.

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