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Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead

Black Bullhead is a hardy catfish species native to Wisconsin's Great Lakes, Hudson Bay, and Mississippi River basins. These adaptable fish tolerate poor water quality, low oxygen levels, high temperatures up to 35°C, and turbid water better than most species.

Scientific Name: Ameiurus melas

Physical Characteristics:
  • Easily distinguished from other bullheads by their dark chin barbels (black or gray), squared tail fin, and uniform dark coloration without mottling.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout the state in drainage basins of the Mississippi River, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior, thriving in warm lakes, sluggish streams, ponds, and backwaters.

Key Locations

  • Fish Wisconsin's numerous lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams.
  • Bullhead Lake in Manitowoc County and Collins Marsh 3 Reservoir are productive waters, along with backwater areas of the Mississippi River.

Specific Spots

  • Target the deepest holes in small creeks, backwaters and slow eddies of rivers, edges of weed beds, and areas near underwater structure.
  • Particularly those with soft, muddy bottoms and vegetation.
  • They often congregate in schools near dams, piers, and confined spaces.

Black Bullhead FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Black Bullhead in Wisconsin?

Earthworms are highly effective, along with nightcrawlers, chicken livers, corn, marshmallows, cut bait, crickets, and even white bread. They respond well to stinky baits due to their excellent sense of smell.

When is the best time to fish for Black Bullhead in Wisconsin?

Late spring through early fall, with peak action occurring from May through October after the spawning period ends.

How do you catch Black Bullhead in Wisconsin?

Let them run with the bait for several seconds before setting the hook hard since bullheads have hard mouths and are notorious for mouthing bait before fully taking it.

What do Black Bullhead eat?

Omnivorous bottom-feeders with an estimated 100,000 taste receptors covering their bodies. Their diet includes midge larvae, insects, small fish, crayfish, snails, plant matter, and detritus.

Where do Black Bullhead live in Wisconsin?

Found throughout the state in drainage basins of the Mississippi River, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior, thriving in warm lakes, sluggish streams, ponds, and backwaters.

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