Channel catfish in Florida

Meet the species

Channel catfish
Image credit: © duane raver, jr.

Scientific name

Ictalurus punctatus

Overview

Channel catfish are found throughout Florida, and spawn in holes and crevices.

Typical size

Big catch minimum: 25 inches or 12

At a glance

Regions
Statewide freshwater
Water
Freshwater
Bait
Use baits with strong odors: chicken liver or gizzards, shrimp & cut mullet and commercial stinkbaits.

Florida fishing record

Weight
44 lb 8 oz
Location
Lake bluff, lake county
Date
May 19, 1985
Angler
Joe purvis
Type
Florida state record

Open record source

Record catch notes

44.5 lb; by joe purvis; on 5/19/1985; at lake bluff, lake county

When to fish

Good months

January–december

Season notes

Intentional year round: Florida freshwater sport fish generally available year-round; peak months only when FWC When-to-Fish states them.

More season details

Where to fish

Florida regions

Statewide freshwater

Water

Freshwater

Habitat

Channel catfish are found throughout Florida, and spawn in holes and crevices.

More locations and access

How to catch

Catfish are a staple for anglers who eat their catch. Use baits with strong odors: chicken liver or gizzards, shrimp, cut mullet and commercial stinkbaits. Catfish are most active just before dusk and at night. Fish on the bottom with a sturdy #2 to #4 hook and a heavy split shot sinker. Be careful of sharp spines when handling these fish. The FWC stocks 200, 000-300, 000 annually in public waters. Image credit: © duane raver & jr.

Bait

Use baits with strong odors: chicken liver or gizzards, shrimp & cut mullet and commercial stinkbaits.

Videos

Sources

Information comes from the supplied source datasets. Check linked FWC regulations for current rules.