Flathead catfish are freshwater fish known for their size and distinctive appearance. Native to North American river systems, they are a popular target for anglers. They have a broad, flattened head, a projecting lower jaw, and mottled body coloration.
Understanding Flathead Catfish Size
Flathead catfish achieve substantial sizes. Adult flatheads commonly range from 15 to 45 inches. Their average weight is typically 10 to 20 pounds, though 50-pound specimens are regularly encountered.
Upper limits are considerably larger. They can grow to lengths exceeding 5 feet, with some reaching 61 inches. Their long lifespan, averaging 12 to 14 years (and potentially over 28 years), allows them to attain these dimensions.
Factors Affecting Growth
Several elements influence flathead catfish growth. Abundant food sources are necessary, as flatheads are predatory fish consuming live prey. Their diet transitions from small crustaceans and insect larvae as juveniles to almost exclusively live fish, such as sunfish, carp, and shad, once they reach 4 inches. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming various available prey.
Habitat quality also influences growth potential. Flathead catfish thrive in stable, deep waters found in rivers, large streams, and reservoirs. They prefer areas with plenty of cover, such as submerged logs, undercut banks, and rock piles, which provide shelter and ambush points for hunting. Clean, well-oxygenated water is also crucial for their overall health and growth.
Water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels directly impact their metabolic rates and feeding activity. Flatheads are warm-water species; their appetite and growth increase when water temperatures range between 66 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Conversely, their feeding activity declines in colder water, particularly below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Age is another factor, as older flatheads have more time to grow. Genetic predispositions can also lead some fish to grow larger.
Record Catches and Notable Sizes
Angling records best illustrate flathead catfish size potential. The current all-tackle world record is an incredible 123 pounds. This fish was caught by Ken Paulie on May 19, 1998, from Elk City Reservoir in Kansas. It measured 61 inches, demonstrating the species’ growth capacity.
Many states also boast impressive records demonstrating the species’ size potential. Fish exceeding 50 pounds are notable catches, indicating healthy populations. Specimens over 70 pounds are rare and a lifetime achievement for most anglers. Such large flathead catfish are typically found in well-managed fisheries providing optimal conditions.