yellow-bullhead Species Facts
Science Name: Ameiurus natalis
Other Names: butter cat, yellow cat, creek cat, white-whiskered bullhead, greaser, polliwog
Ideal Temp: 72 to 80
World Record: 4 lbs. 4 ounces, Az.
Environment: stream and lake
Techniques: bottom fishing, light tackle
Description

Ameiurus means "primitive or curtailed" in reference to the notch in the distal end of the caudal fin, and natalis is Latin for "having large buttocks." Yellow bullheads are typically light yellow to olive-green on the back, often somewhat mottled. The belly is yellowish to white. The tail is not notched, and may be slightly rounded. Chin barbels are white. The anal fin has 23-27 rays.

Though scavengers, yellow bullheads prefer to feed on minnows, snails, shrimp and crayfish. They also will feed on insect larvae, vegetation and decaying organic matter. Scent and taste play a vital role in their feeding, most of which is done at night.

The preferred habitat is variable and includes vegetated areas of clear, shallow lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and slow-flowing streams. Yellows are more tolerant of polluted environments than most other members of the catfish family.

During late spring or early summer, yellow bullheads excavate nests in mud bottoms and spawn. Both parents guard the nest, which may contain 2,000 to 12,000 eggs. In four to six days eggs hatch and fry begin to school in compact balls which are guarded by adults until individuals reach about one inch in length. Like black bullheads, the yellow bullhead is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal material, both live and dead. Immature aquatic insects and crustaceans often comprise a considerable proportion of the diet. Although yellow bullheads rarely achieve edible size, some individuals may exceed four pounds.

Yellow bullheads range throughout the central and eastern US from central Texas north into North Dakota and east through the Great Lakes region to the coast.

Tips for Fishing

Bullheads bite readily and can be caught using simple, inexpensive equipment. A variety of baits work well such as nightcrawlers, chicken livers, or red worms fished near the bottom.