CommonNativeSecure
9
Channel Catfish
Ictalurus punctatus · Ictaluridae
Night-shift whiskered opportunist. The people's fish.
Common
12–24 in
Max
40+ in
Weight
Up to 30 lbs
Best Bite Windows
When channel catfish feeds · time-of-day read
Right now · 12:00 PM · MIDD window
DORMANT25%feeding activity
Off-peak · slow near cover
24-hour bite curvetaller = more feeding · scrub the clock
12a6a12p6p12a
DAWN
57
MORN
34
MIDD
27
AFTE
56
DUSK
91
NIGH
95
Nocturnal · peak bite after dark
Solar + LunarMEDIUM lunar pull
Major feeds7:53p – 9:53p5:06a – 7:06a
Minor feeds5:27a – 6:27a8:01p – 9:01p
Solunar window 8:08p – 9:38p
Full MoonNew Moon
Day · Active throughout the day with moderate lunar influence on peak feeding windows. Channel breaks and deep holes.
Night · Night fishing effective year-round; modest Full Moon enhancement. Stinkbaits and cut bait.
Habitat
RiversLakesReservoirsPonds
Range
River holes, riprap, reservoir channels.
Diet
Anything. Live, dead, stinky — works.
Best baits & lures
Chicken liver
Cut shad
Stink bait
Ready-to-fish boxes for Channel Catfish
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
Fish after dark
Current seams hold the big ones
Smellier is better
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
A catfish has more taste buds on its body than a human has in their mouth. The barbels are just the start — the whole fish tastes the water.
Status
Secure
Native · Ictaluridae