Catfish in Michigan

Michigan is an often over-looked fishery when it comes to targeting Catfish. We have two major species of catfish in Michigan, Channel catfish and the beloved Flathead catfish.  As a full time Michigan Guide I truly believe these fish are some of the underrated fish in the state.  Both are fairly accessible in the southern half of the state and the opportunity for some not only great sport fishing but also a tasty meal if you’re looking to drop some fillets into some hot grease. We will cover the main differences between channel catfish and flathead catfish as well as some of the places and ways to target each. 

Catfish in Michigan

There are a lot of similarities between the two but some important and distinguishing differences as well. Flatheads on average are substantially larger than channels. A large flathead in Michigan can exceed 50+ pounds and it isn’t uncommon to catch them over 30lbs. They are easily identified by their large, flat and wide head that looks like it could swallow a basketball when you open their mouth. There are also far less flatheads than channel cats, making them more challenging and more rewarding to catch, not to mention there is a difference in strength and power as well. There are not only differences in their appearance but also their diet. Both channels and flatheads will eat both live or fresh bait. However, flatheads love live bait and eat some rather impressive sized meals. A large flathead will swallow a bullhead or channel cat that many would confuse with the catch, not mention small carp ranging 2-5 lbs. If they can fit it in their mouth they will eat it, if they can’t they are still going to try. Being a rather aggressive and territorial fish, nothing is safe if it strolls across the wrong piece of structure. They are most active at night and use their impressive sense of smell and sensitive lateral line to hunt down and ambush their next meal. 

Channel catfish share the same sense of smell and lateral line to feed. However, they usually are targeted with small pieces of cut bait. While they aren’t necessarily small, they don’t get as large as their distant relatives. A large channel will still clock in over 20 pounds and we do see them quite frequently in the early season but most of the year a big channel will come in around 10 pounds. They are often found in similar areas to the flathead and oftentimes more grouped up, when you find one, there are likely others there too and they usually aren’t shy about eating. Distinguishing the bite from a channel vs. a Flathead is fairly easy after some time on the water and seeing both fish take a bait. Flatheads vacuum their food up and crush it before swallowing it whole, leading to a slow and smooth takedown on the rod. Channel cats tear their food apart and shred it until they swallow it. Making for a very sharp abrupt pull and stop on the rod. 

The rigs for both of these fish can be very simple and almost the same for both. A typical bottom rig does the trick. A sinker on your mainline, swivel and a leader with a circle hook. Channel cats I use smaller cut baits and a 6/0 circle hook, flatheads I use bigger baits and 10/0- 12/0 circle hooks. We will discuss rigs and set-ups more in a future article. 

When it comes to targeting catfish in Michigan, a very easy and accessible place to start is off any pier head on one of the great lakes. Both the river and lakeside can have fish and be productive. Set your rods with different bait options and wait about 30-40 minutes before recasting or checking bait. Dams on Michigan rivers is another great place to start looking for catfish. 

Hopefully this article answered some questions for you and got you headed in the right direction to catching some catfish. Stay on the lookout for more educational articles coming soon regarding targeting catfish in Michigan. 

John Wielinga

www.getbentguideservicemi.com

269-277-9293