Black Bullhead
Black Bullhead are non-native catfish found in scattered populations throughout Virginia's Piedmont reservoirs, though they do not occur near tidal waters.
These hardy fish tolerate poor water quality, low oxygen levels, and temperatures from near freezing to 30°C.
They're opportunistic feeders that hunt primarily at night, using their extensive taste receptor system - they have around 100,000 taste receptors covering their bodies.
Scientific Name: Ameiurus melas
- These distinctive fish are easily identified by their dark olive to slate-olive coloration with shiny green-gold sides and white to yellow bellies.
- They possess completely dark chin barbels (unlike Brown or Yellow Bullheads), a slightly notched tail fin, and typically reach 150-300mm in length, though they can grow up to 620mm.
Fishing in Virginia
Rivanna River
James River
Lake Anna
South Fork Shenandoah River
South River
Rappahannock River
Appomattox River
Beaver Creek Reservoir
South Fork Rivanna River
Rapidan River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- In Virginia waters, they inhabit slow-moving or stagnant areas with soft substrates, including lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and low-gradient stream pools.
Key Locations
- Virginia's Piedmont reservoirs.
Specific Spots
- Fish near underwater structure, docks, and areas with aquatic vegetation in 1-3 feet of water depth.
Black Bullhead FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Black Bullhead in Virginia?
Effective baits include nightcrawlers and earthworms (soak worms in pickled beet juice for added attraction in murky water), live or dead minnows, chicken liver, cut bait, crickets, and leeches. These opportunistic feeders also respond to unconventional baits like corn, cheese, hot dogs, bread balls, and dough balls.
When is the best time to fish for Black Bullhead in Virginia?
They're active year-round but feed less during winter months, making spring through fall the most productive fishing periods.
How do you catch Black Bullhead in Virginia?
Use still fishing techniques with bait on the bottom. During daylight hours, focus on shaded areas under piers or docks, and fish murky or turbid waters where they're more likely to be active.
What do Black Bullhead eat?
Virginia's Black Bullheads are omnivorous bottom-feeders with a diverse diet including aquatic macroinvertebrates (primarily chironomid larvae), benthic invertebrates, small fish, fish e.g.gs, plant material, and detritus.
Where do Black Bullhead live in Virginia?
In Virginia waters, they inhabit slow-moving or stagnant areas with soft substrates, including lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and low-gradient stream pools.
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