Yellow Bullhead
Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis) in Washington are an introduced species that have established populations in several counties across the state.
Scientific Name: Ameiurus natalis
- These medium-sized catfish are distinguished from other bullheads by their almost clear or unpigmented chin barbels (whiskers), which are white or yellow, and their more numerous anal fin rays (usually 25-26 compared to 16-23 in brown and black bullheads).
- They average 6-10 inches in length and rarely exceed 2 pounds, though Washington's state record is 2.06 pounds from Potholes Reservoir.
- Their bodies are covered in over 200,000 taste buds, giving them exceptional chemical sensing abilities.
Fishing in Washington
Yakima River
Cedar River
Puyallup River
Snoqualmie River
East Passage
Cowlitz River
Naches River
Commencement Bay
Cle Elum River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Yellow Bullhead prefer clearer water than other bullheads and are found in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving sections of rivers with muddy bottoms and vegetation.
Key Locations
- In Washington, they're documented in waters across Benton, Clark, Franklin, Spokane, and Stevens counties, including Lake Wallula, Battle Ground Lake, Clear Lake, Lake Spokane, and several smaller ponds and reservoirs.
- In Washington, productive waters include Lake Wallula on the Columbia River, Lake Spokane (Long Lake), and various Franklin County waters like Scooteney Reservoir and Worth Lake.
Specific Spots
- Target shallow, weedy areas with muddy bottoms, particularly around submerged cover like logs, rocks, or vegetation.
Yellow Bullhead FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Yellow Bullhead in Washington?
Popular baits include worms (especially those soaked in pickled beet juice for color), chicken liver, beef liver, minnows, crickets, corn, and even unconventional options like cheese, hot dogs, or marshmallows. Their excellent sense of smell makes strong-scented baits particularly effective.
When is the best time to fish for Yellow Bullhead in Washington?
The best fishing for Yellow Bullhead in Washington occurs from spring through fall, peaking before the spawning period in May and June. Fishing may pick up again in early fall before declining as waters cool in winter. During spawning periods, avoid targeting these fish to allow successful reproduction.
How do you catch Yellow Bullhead in Washington?
Bottom fishing is essential since they're benthic feeders. A simple rod, line, bobber, and bait setup is often all that's required for success with these cooperative fish.
What do Yellow Bullhead eat?
These omnivorous fish are voracious scavengers that feed primarily at night on worms, insects, snails, minnows, crayfish, small fish, plant matter, and decaying organic material.
Where do Yellow Bullhead live in Washington?
Yellow Bullhead prefer clearer water than other bullheads and are found in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving sections of rivers with muddy bottoms and vegetation.
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