Gafftopsail Catfish are bluish on top and silvery below with long, fleshy filaments on the dorsal and pectoral fins. They have a barbel (βwhiskerβ) at each corner of the mouth that is flattened, band like, and very long. They also have 2 barbels on the chin.
Habitat & Range
Gafftopsail Catfish roam coastal flats but prefer channels and other deep areas. Although mainly marine, it does enter brackish estuaries with relatively high salinities. They feed mostly on blue crabs but also consume small fishes, shrimps, and marine worms.
Where to Fishing
Atlantic Ocean, Lower Delaware Bay, and Inland Bays
Frequently Asked Questions
Fishing Tips
Live shrimp, small crabs, and small fish are good natural baits for Gafftopsail Catfish . Artificial worms and spoons will also work. They feed throughout the water column, but baits fished near the bottom work best.
