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Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullhead

Brown Bullheads are native freshwater catfish found throughout Texas, particularly in the extreme eastern portions of the state. These hardy fish are remarkably tolerant of poor water conditions, surviving in low oxygen levels (as low as 0.

2 ppm), heavily polluted waters, and temperatures up to 97°F, making them true survivors in waters where other fish struggle.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus nebulosus

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

Physical Characteristics:
  • These hardy fish are distinguished from other bullhead species by their dark brown to black chin barbels, squared-off tail fin, and mottled brown coloration with yellowish bellies.
  • They typically grow 8-14 inches on average but can reach up to 20 inches and weigh 5-8 pounds, with the Texas record exceeding 5 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit mud-bottomed lakes, ponds, streams, reservoirs, and river backwaters with abundant vegetation.

Key Locations

  • East Texas.

Specific Spots

  • Target slow-moving waters with vegetation and muddy bottoms - look for ponds, lakes, reservoir backwaters, and sluggish stream sections.

Brown Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

The most effective baits include earthworms (especially pungent ones from compost piles), night crawlers, chicken liver, corn, small minnows, cut bait, leeches, crickets, and dough balls. Many Texas anglers swear by corn as an easy and effective bait.

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

Prime season runs from late spring through fall, with summer evenings being particularly productive.

How do you catch Brown Bullhead in Texas?

Present baits on or very close to the bottom using still fishing techniques, slip sinker rigs, or simple bobber setups.

What do Brown Bullhead eat?

As omnivorous bottom feeders, they consume worms, leeches, vegetation, snails, smaller fish, corn, aquatic insects, mollusks, crayfish, and fish e.g.gs.

Where do Brown Bullhead live in Texas?

They inhabit mud-bottomed lakes, ponds, streams, reservoirs, and river backwaters with abundant vegetation.

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