Flathead Catfish Fishing in Minnesota
Minnesota’s largest catfish species. Found in the Mississippi, Minnesota, and St. Croix rivers. Trophy fish exceeding 40 pounds are caught annually.
Flathead Catfish
Pylodictis olivaris
Minnesota's largest catfish species. Found in the Mississippi, Minnesota, and St. Croix rivers. Trophy fish exceeding 40 pounds are caught annually.
Size Limit
No minimum
Daily Bag
2
Season
Year-round
State Record
70 lb 0 oz
St. Croix River (2021)
Best Months to Fish
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
What to Use
Live Bait & Natural
Live sunfishLive bullheadsLarge minnowsCut bait
Lures & Artificials
Heavy slip sinker rigs with circle hooks
Minnesota Lakes with Flathead Catfish
1 lake in our directory has flathead catfish — sorted by size.
More Minnesota Fish Species
Plan Your Flathead Catfish Trip
Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next flathead catfish fishing trip in Minnesota.
Explore Lakes Find a Guide Bait & TackleRegulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Minnesota DNR regulations before fishing. A Minnesota fishing license is required for ages 16+.