Brown Bullhead: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is a Brown Bullhead?
The Brown Bullhead is the gritty little catfish that never quits. Found from murky ponds to tidal creeks, this bottom-feeder is armed with whiskers, spines, and a zero-quit mentality. They bite day or night, on anything that smells edible — a true everyman’s fish.
The first FishyAF ambassador to check one off the list? @marktheshark13 — proving that even the dirtiest water holds a little FishyAF gold.
Here’s your complete guide to the Brown Bullhead — where they thrive, what they eat, and why they’re the perfect fish for anyone who loves a fight and a little slime. Click here to see what bottom-feeders are wearing.
🐟 Brown Bullhead Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ameiurus nebulosus |
| Average Size | 1–3 lbs, 10–16 inches typical |
| World Record | 6 lbs 11 oz — Michigan (2009) |
| Habitat | Ponds, lakes, rivers, and brackish creeks with muddy bottoms |
| Edible? | Yes — mild, white flesh (best from clean water) |
❓ FAQs About Brown Bullhead
Where can you catch Brown Bullhead?
Almost anywhere with mud and minnows — from farm ponds to tidal creeks. They’re hardy, adaptable, and often bite when nothing else will.
How big do Brown Bullhead get?
Most run 1–3 lbs, but they can exceed 5 lbs in fertile lakes. Anything over 4 lbs is a certified pig in bullhead terms.
What is the world record Brown Bullhead?
The all-tackle record Brown Bullhead weighed 6 lbs 11 oz and came out of Michigan in 2009 — a whiskered monster by any standard.
What is the size limit for Brown Bullhead?
⚠️ Usually unregulated due to their abundance, but always check your local DNR before you fill a stringer.
Are Brown Bullhead good to eat?
Yes — their white meat is clean and mild, especially from cold, clear water. Just be sure to skin them before cooking.
How do you cook Brown Bullhead?
Fried, grilled, or baked — same as any catfish. Cornmeal breading and hot oil are the classic combo. Bonus points for Cajun seasoning.
What is the best bait to catch a Brown Bullhead?
Worms, chicken liver, cut bait, or anything that smells “alive.” Nightcrawlers and stinkbaits are a lock — just set it on the bottom and hang on.
😂 FishyAF Brown Bullhead Joke
Brown Bullhead — the fish that’ll bite a bootlace if it smells like bacon.
🚨 WE NEED YOUR HELP…
Our goal is to photograph 1,000 species with the FishyAF Brand. Join our FishyAF Ambassador Awards Program and win cool prizes.
🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
Whether you’re fishing rivers or roadside ditches, real bottom-fishers wear Switchback Hats and Offshore Hoodies. Don’t just catch fish — look FishyAF doing it.