RareNativeSecure
10
Blue Catfish
Ictalurus furcatus · Ictaluridae
The big river monarch. Trophy water fish.
Common
20–36 in
Max
60+ in
Weight
Up to 100+ lbs
Best Bite Windows
When blue catfish feeds · time-of-day read
Right now · 12:00 PM · MIDD window
FAIR50%feeding activity
Off-peak · slow near cover
24-hour bite curvetaller = more feeding · scrub the clock
12a6a12p6p12a
DAWN
62
MORN
42
MIDD
50
AFTE
68
DUSK
95
NIGH
98
Deep-water night hunter
Solar + LunarMEDIUM lunar pull
Major feeds7:49p – 9:49p5:19a – 7:19a
Minor feeds5:38a – 6:38a8:00p – 9:00p
Solunar window 8:04p – 9:34p
Full MoonNew Moon
Day · Main channel structure, ledges, and dam tailraces. Moderate lunar sensitivity — bait selection matters more.
Night · Good night feeder year-round; lunar impact is secondary to proper baiting and structure location.
Habitat
RiversLarge reservoirs
Range
Arkansas, White, Mississippi river main channels.
Diet
Live & cut shad, skipjack, carp chunks.
Best baits & lures
Cut skipjack
Live bluegill (regulated)
Whole shad heads
Gear up locallyPartner
Tale Waters & Tides
The home water for Arkansas anglers
Pocket Fishing Guide is powered by Tale Waters & Tides — gear, guides, and the stories behind the water. Plan your next trip with us.
How to fish it · techniques
Anchor on ledges
Drift baits in current
Fresh cut bait beats frozen
Book a guidePartner
Rileys White & Buffalo Outfitter
Your White & Buffalo River outfitter
Guided float trips, canoe & kayak rentals, and riverside cabins on the White and Buffalo rivers.
Fun fact
The Arkansas state record is 116 pounds. Somewhere in the Mississippi River right now, a blue catfish older than most anglers is eating a whole gizzard shad in one bite.
Status
Secure
Native · Ictaluridae