Flathead Catfish
Pylodictis olivaris
Michigan's largest catfish, flatheads are native to the state's southwestern rivers including the St. Joseph, Grand, and Kalamazoo. A trophy predator that only eats live prey.
Seasonal Activity
Jan
Off season
Feb
Off season
Mar
Slow
Apr
Slow
May
Good
Jun
Prime
Jul
Prime
Aug
Prime
Sep
Good
Oct
Slow
Nov
Off season
Dec
Off season
Best Techniques
- live-baiting with big suckers
- bottom fishing logjams at night
- anchor and wait in deep holes
Top Baits
- live suckers
- live bullheads
- large shiners
- live bluegill (where legal)
Michigan state record: 52 lbs, Maple River (Gratiot Co.), 1943