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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead are widely distributed catfish found in North Dakota's fishing waters, though they are less common than Black Bullhead.

These fish are extremely hardy fish that can tolerate low oxygen conditions, high temperatures up to 97°F, and polluted waters that other species cannot survive.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish are characterized by dark brown to yellowish-brown coloration with mottled sides, dark chin barbels (unlike Yellow Bullhead's light barbels), and a square tail.
  • They grow 8-14 inches on average, with trophy specimens reaching 21 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit lakes, ponds, slow-moving streams, and backwaters with muddy bottoms and vegetation.

Key Locations

  • In North Dakota, they're found in various fishing waters managed by the Game and Fish Department.

Specific Spots

  • Fish shallow areas during spring and fall, including muddy bottoms near vegetation, creek mouths, and areas around logs or stumps.
  • In summer, fish deeper water (20-40 feet) during the day near weed lines and drop-offs, then move to shallow areas after dark.
  • Target areas below dams, slack water with muddy bottoms, shallow vegetated areas, and inflows from culverts or streams.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Brown Bullhead in North Dakota?

The most effective baits are nightcrawlers and earthworms, which account for two-thirds of trophy catches, but chicken liver, minnows, leeches, corn, cheese, hot dogs, and dough balls also work well.

What flies work for Brown Bullhead in North Dakota?

For fly fishing, use streamers like Woolly Buggers, Clouser Minnows, and baitfish imitations fished near the bottom.

When is the best time to fish for Brown Bullhead in North Dakota?

Spring through fall when water temperatures are above 55°F, with peak fishing occurring when temperatures reach 60-70°F. Fish actively feed before spawning in spring, making this an excellent time for fast action fishing.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in North Dakota?

Still fishing and drift fishing are the most productive techniques. Use scented baits since Brown Bullhead rely heavily on smell to locate food, and avoid getting oils or sunscreen on your hands when handling bait.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

Brown Bullhead are omnivorous bottom feeders with an excellent sense of smell, consuming aquatic insects, worms, small fish, fish e.g.gs, crayfish, mollusks, algae, and plant material.

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