Bullhead Catfish (or Mudcat) Species

The term "mudcat" actually refers to bullhead catfish.  There are several distinct features that indicate a bullhead.  First and foremost is the size.  Most bullheads stay south of 3 lbs.  In fact, a one pound bullhead is very respectable.  The next distinct feature of a bullhead is the tail.  Similar to a flathead, the bullhead's tail is NOT forked.  Last but not least, take a look at the bullhead's mouth.  The top and bottom lips are pretty much even.  There's no under-bite or over-bite.

Now that we know about bullheads, guess what?  There's more than one species.  There are yellow bullheads, brown bullheads, and black bullheads.  As you might expect, the main method of distinguishing between the three is their color.

Here's a yellow bullhead.

 



Now here's a brown bullhead.

 

 

Notice the length on the brown bullhead.  It's the same length as the yellow bullhead or maybe even shorter.  However, look at the mouth on this thing!

 

 

 

I have not yet caught a black bullhead.  When I do, you can bet that I'll add to this post.  As usual, all fish pictured were released.  Tight lines!