White catfish
Ameirus catus
A state link is a recorded source association, not a catch guarantee or confirmation that targeting is legal. Check current regulations with the responsible state agency.
- Peak months
- Typical depth
- Typical size
- Catch minimum
- 22 inches or 5 lb
- National record
See state records · Browse all fishing records
Recorded profile
- habitat summary
- Found statewide in rivers and streams and in slightly brackish coastal waters.
- diet
- eat larval aquatic insects, small crustaceans, fish eggs and aquatic plants. feed at night, but are not as nocturnal as other catfish.
- preferred bait
- Live bait, especially minnows and worms, accounts for most caught whites, but they also will take cut and prepared baits.
- preferred lures
- Not recorded
- techniques
- Among the catfishes found in Florida, the white is second only to the channel catfish in popularity. Live bait, especially minnows and worms, accounts for most caught whites, but they also will take cut and prepared baits. Image Credit: © Duane Raver, Jr.
- peak months
- Not recorded
States with a source record
Source evidence by state
LoveToFish is a national fishing guide. Fish species coverage spans all 50 states. Ramp, charter, bait shop, and creator directories currently cover Florida. Verify current local regulations with the responsible agency.