Flathead Catfish

   Common Names: Mud cat, yellow cat, flathead, and shovelhead cat.
   Description: Color is dark to olive-brown with dark brown mottling on the sides. The larger
   fish are frequently yellowish brown to a dark slate gray. The head is broad and flat. The anal
   fin is very short with only 15 to 17 rays. The tail is square or slightly notched. The lower jaw
   is longer than the upper.

Whenever this species is caught, it is generally considered a bonus or trophy fish. Carlyle Lake has a good population of "flatheads" and some anglers specialize in trying to catch this species. Trotlines with big hooks (No. 2 to No. 6), big baits and strong lines are some basic tackle requirements. Baits range from live green sunfish, bullhead, carp, large shiners and shad
to leeches, chicken guts and large hunks of cut baits from bowfin, white carp or carp. Fishing is best May through September. Most flatheads are taken in or around the river and its old channel in the lake. Catches of individual flatheads up to 40 pounds have been quite common. This species is occasionally taken by pole and line fishermen while fishing for other species along rock rip-rap areas of the railroad, dam or in the tailwater. Flatheads are frequently caught on jigs, streamers or small spinning lures.