Blue catfish are a somewhat robust catfish with a humped back. These fish have a deeply forked caudal fin. Larger mature fish are a dark blue color that fades into a white belly. Blue catfish can be distinguished from channel catfish by their straight anal fin (versus rounded in channel catfish) and the absence of dark spots on the body. These fish can commonly attain weights of 5 to 20 pounds but can reach lengths of over 5 feet and weigh up to 130 pounds. These fish can live over 20 years.
Habitat & Range
Adults feed on smaller fish, various mollusks (mussels and clams), shrimp, crabs, crayfish, and aquatic insects. These fish are found in larger rivers, oxbow lakes, reservoirs, and brackish water near the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
State Record
The Mississippi Rod and Reel record is 131 pounds, caught by Eugene Cronley on the Mississippi River at Natchez in 2022.
Fishing Tips
Methods that anglers use to target blue catfish include hand grabbing, tight lining, trot lining, and jug fishing. Stink baits and worms used for channel cats are less likely to take blues than minnows or cut shad. Footer Accessibility Careers Contact Us Privacy Policy Staff Portal License Support: 1-800-5GOHUNT Main Office: 1-601-432-2400 1505 Eastover Drive, Jackson, MS 39211 Copyright 2023-2026 Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, All Rights Reserved.
