First Cast species profile
Flathead Catfish
Pylodictis olivaris
Freshwater
Also called: flathead, yellow cat, opelousas, appaloosa catfish
Overview
A structure-loving ambush catfish that favors live bait around logjams, cut banks, boulders, and deep cover.
- Family
- Ictaluridae
- Typical habitat
- Logjams, Cut banks, Deep holes
- Takes
- Live sunfish, Live shad, Live perch
- Seasonality
- Night fishing near warm-season cover is a common flathead pattern.
Identification
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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.