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Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish

Channel catfish are Oklahoma's third most popular sportfish and the most abundant catfish species statewide, found in virtually every body of water including streams, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs.

Scientific Name: Ictalurus punctatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • They're easily identified by their forked tail, curved anal fin with 27-29 rays, and grayish-brown coloration with small black spots on juveniles that fade with age.
  • In Oklahoma's small impoundments studied from 2020-2022, channel catfish ranged from 25-657mm total length with weights from 10-3,470 grams, reaching 95% maturity at 419mm.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in virtually every body of water including streams, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs statewide.

Key Locations

  • Productive locations include the riprap along Canton Lake dam during June spawning activity, creek channels at Lake Carl Blackwell, and the Canadian River cove areas.

Specific Spots

  • Target dam riprap, creek channels, and areas with cover like standing timber or brush piles.
  • They inhabit deeper pools and holes during the day, moving to shallow feeding areas at dusk and overnight.
  • Adults prefer cover near larger pools while juveniles tolerate faster current and shallow water.

Channel Catfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Prepared baits (punch baits or fiber baits) are the most effective, particularly brands like CJ's Catfish Punch Bait, Team Catfish Sudden Impact Fiber Bait, and Sure Shot Catfish Punch Bait. Alternative baits include chicken liver, live worms, hot dogs, cut bluegill, and live minnows.

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

The peak season runs from mid-May through early summer, though they can be caught year-round. Spawning occurs in late May through early July when water temperatures reach 75°F.

How do you catch Channel Catfish in Oklahoma?

Fish 3-5 feet below bobbers in summer, or use Carolina rigs with circle hooks and cut shad. Set the hook quickly when detecting bites, as channel catfish have light, tentative strikes and rarely return for second attempts.

What do Channel Catfish eat?

Channel cats are omnivorous scavengers that feed on fish (75% of diet for adults over 18 inches), mussels, snails, insects, crayfish, and organic matter both dead and alive. Primary forage includes gizzard shad, freshwater drum.

Where do Channel Catfish live in Oklahoma?

Found in virtually every body of water including streams, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs statewide.

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