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Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead

Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis) are native to North Dakota's central and eastern waters, representing one of the species of conservation concern in the state's Red River Basin.

These are bottom-dwelling scavengers with extraordinary sensory capabilities - over 200,000 taste buds cover their bodies, with 20,000 on their eight barbels alone.

These hardy fish tolerate poor water quality and low oxygen conditions better than most species.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus natalis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These medium-sized catfish typically reach 8.9-24 inches and weigh 1-2 pounds, though specimens up to 6 pounds have been recorded.
  • They're distinguished from other bullheads by their white or yellow chin barbels, rounded caudal fin, and 24-27 anal fin rays.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer slow-moving waters with muck, sand, or clay bottoms, thriving in backwaters, shallow lake areas, and vegetated zones.
  • Target sluggish creeks and rivers with gravel bottoms, oxbows, ponds, and impoundments throughout the state.

Key Locations

  • Focus on North Dakota waters like the Red River of the North, Elm River, Casselton Reservoir, and Rivers Bend Pond.
  • In North Dakota, they inhabit the Red River system, Elm River, James River, Sheyenne River, and various lakes including Casselton Reservoir and Rivers Bend Pond.

Specific Spots

  • Look for shallow, weedy areas with soft bottoms, submerged logs, tree roots, and vegetated zones.

Yellow Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Natural baits work exceptionally well - earthworms, crickets, chicken liver, cut bait, beef jerky, corn, and dough balls are all effective.

What flies work for Yellow Bullhead in North Dakota?

Try Woolly Buggers in various colors, Clouser Minnows, microjigs (1/80th to 1/64th oz on #8 hooks), and flies that imitate aquatic insects.

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

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) provide the best fishing as cooler water temperatures increase their activity. Avoid fishing during spawning period (April through July when water temperatures reach 73-82°F).

How do you catch Yellow Bullhead in North Dakota?

For fly fishing, use weighted patterns since they're bottom feeders. Suspend microjigs under strike indicators and retrieve very slowly with long pauses. For conventional tackle, fish on the bottom in 2-30 feet of water near structure.

What do Yellow Bullhead eat?

They're opportunistic feeders consuming worms, insects, snails, minnows, clams, crayfish, aquatic vegetation, and decaying matter, being more herbivorous than other bullhead species.

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