Blue Catfish

Other names: -

The blue catfish, Ictalurus furcatus, is a large freshwater fish native to North America, notable for its blue-gray coloration and forked tail. It inhabits deep rivers and reservoirs and is known for its size and strength. This species is popular in fisheries, aquaculture, and sport fishing.

Length
~70 (max 170)
Weight
~25 (max 65)
Water
Fresh, brackish
Water Temp
2-28° F
Depth
6-50 ft

Other names
-
Length
~70 (max 170)
Weight
~25 (max 65)
Water
Fresh, brackish
Water Temp
2-28° F
Depth
6-50 ft

Popular lures for Blue Catfish

Anchovy

Bluegill

Cheese

Chicken Livers

Chub

Clams

Crawfish

Crayfish

Crustaceans

Cut Bait (Fish)

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Regulation for Blue Catfish

Check all regulations in AL

Season
Always open
Bag limit
No
Vessel limit
-
Trophy limits
>34" (1 fish)
Max size
-
Min size
No
Measurement
Total length
Prohibited methods
-

Check all regulations in AL

Living Conditions

🐟 Habitat preferences
- Found in deep waters of rivers and reservoirs
- Prefers slow-moving or still waters with muddy or sandy bottoms
- Juveniles stay in shallow areas with vegetation
- Diet includes small invertebrates, clams, and fish
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawning occurs in late spring to early summer in nests
- Males build nests under logs, brush, or riverbanks
- Eggs hatch within a week, and juveniles remain in the nest for protection
- Adults migrate to deeper waters, showing site fidelity for spawning grounds