Catfish Family: Catfish family members range in size from small to large and get their name from their whisker-like barbels.
Identification: adipose fins whisker-like barbels No scales 17-20 rays in the anal fin Compared to channel catfish , bullheads are stockier, darker in color, have a more rounded, slightly notched tail, and are not as large
Notes: Black bullhead do not have scales, and their smooth skin contains taste buds across their entire body. The black bullhead is our most common bullhead. North Dakota also have yellow and brown bullheads. There are also variations in color in the three bullhead species as the names suggest, but not as noticeable as might be expected.
Habitat & Range
Black bullhead do not have scales, and their smooth skin contains taste buds across their entire body. The black bullhead is our most common bullhead. North Dakota also have yellow and brown bullheads. There are also variations in color in the three bullhead species as the names suggest, but not as noticeable as might be expected.
Fishing Season
Open year-round (April 1 – March 31)
License & Regulations
A valid North Dakota fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Resident and non-resident licenses are available. Two free fishing days per year (typically in June and December) allow fishing without a license. Purchase licenses online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations
Nongame fish: No limit. Open year-round.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | Fishing | Regulations | Season Dates | Open year-round (April 1 – March 31) | Link |
| North Dakota | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid North Dakota fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Resident and non-resident licenses are availa | Link |
