The flathead catfish is an introduced species to South Carolina. Its native range is in the Ohio, Mississippi and Missouri river basins. Since its introduction into the Santee-Cooper Reservoir, flatheads have become established in nearly every reservoir or river system in the state. The spread of this non-native fish has negatively affected several native species, most notably redbreast sunfish. Although the flathead catfish provides a great sportfishing opportunity, the highly predacious flathead has negatively impacted native species such as bullheads and redbreast sunfish creating ecosystem imbalance. The flathead catfish maintain a solitary existence, usually inhabiting the same site on a daily basis. Like most catfish, the flathead catfish is a nocturnal feeder, becoming more active as light intensity declines. This fish makes excellent table fare. Unlike other catfish species, flatheads are reluctant to take decaying bait and prefer live bait.
Range: The flathead can be found in the Pee Dee, Santee, Edisto and Savannah river drainages of the Coastal Plain and Piedmont.
Commonly Mistaken Species: Some species of fish that are commonly mistaken for this species are: Blue catfish Channel catfish
Habitat & Range
The flathead catfish prefers deep holes in sluggish or slow water in medium to large rivers in areas with good structure such as fallen trees, stumps and undercut banks. Flatheads have also done well in large reservoirs, though growth rates tend to be slower in non-river habitats.
Life History
Spawning: - In South Carolina, flathead catfish spawn from mid-May to mid-July in areas around hollow logs and undercut banks.
- The males create nests that are 3-15 feet in depth.
- The yellow gelatinous eggs masses that can contain 4,000 to 100,000 eggs are tended by the males. They guard and aerate the eggs with fin movements during incubation.
- Parental protection continues until the young fish absorb their yolk sacs and disperse.
Diet: - Primarily a diet of fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
15-45 inches 1-45 pounds
Lifespan
Approximately 26 years
State Record
: 79 pounds, 4 ounces (2001)
