First Cast species profile
Blue Catfish
Ictalurus furcatus
Freshwater
Also called: blue cat, hump back blue, humpback blue
Overview
A big-river and reservoir catfish that tracks shad, current, ledges, and deep wintering holes.
- Family
- Ictaluridae
- Typical habitat
- River ledges, Deep holes, Wind-blown flats
- Takes
- Fresh cut shad, Skipjack, Cut carp
- Seasonality
- Cold-season trophy patterns often track fresh shad and deep-water edges.
Identification
Not sure what you have caught? Photograph it and First Cast will identify it against the species master.
Identify a catch →Regulations
Needs review: check current TPWD Outdoor Annual before harvesting.
Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.
Source: TPWD Outdoor Annual 2025-2026Verify current regulations with the state or federal authority before fishing.