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

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)

State record: 52.00 lb, 1943, Saint Joseph River