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Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish in Pennsylvania are among the largest freshwater fish species in North America.

Historically native only to Pennsylvania's Three Rivers system (Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela rivers around Pittsburgh), blue catfish were extirpated around 1900 due to pollution from coal mining, sewage, and industrial discharge.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission began restoration efforts in 2022, stocking over 100,000 fingerlings and yearlings into the Ohio River basin.

Scientific Name: Ictalurus furcatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Capable of growing up to 5 feet long and exceeding 100 pounds, though average adults typically reach 2-3.5 feet and 20-40 pounds.
  • They're distinguished by their bluish-gray coloration with white undersides, deeply forked tails, and straight-edged anal fins with 30-36 rays.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Prefer main river channels with strong currents and gravel substrates, though they tolerate various habitats including deep lakes.
  • They can survive in brackish water up to 15 ppt salinity.
  • Outside their native Three Rivers range, they're considered highly invasive.

Key Locations

  • Three Rivers system around Pittsburgh, specifically the Ohio River from Pittsburgh to the state line, lower Allegheny River below Lock and Dam 5, and Monongahela River up to Grays Landing.

Specific Spots

  • Deep water (30-45 feet) near outside river channel bends with mud bottoms, deep channels, holes below dams, rocky channel banks, areas with current breaks, submerged cover like stumps and laydown logs, and creek mouths during high water.

Blue Catfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

When is the best time to fish for Blue Catfish in Pennsylvania?

Winter (December-March) offers the best trophy fishing opportunities for monster blue catfish, when surface temperatures are 36-38°F. Spring (March-May) provides excellent action for both numbers and trophy fish as warming water triggers heavy feeding.

How do you catch Blue Catfish in Pennsylvania?

Use fish finders to locate fish in appropriate depths and structure. Target deep channels and appropriate structure. Bottom fishing techniques with heavy tackle.

What do Blue Catfish eat?

Opportunistic omnivores that feed on everything fitting in their mouths - fish, crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic vegetation, and organic matter.

Where do Blue Catfish live in Pennsylvania?

Prefer main river channels with strong currents and gravel substrates, though they tolerate various habitats including deep lakes. They can survive in brackish water up to 15 ppt salinity. Outside their native Three Rivers range, they're considered highly invasive.

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