Flathead Catfish

Pylodictis olivaris

Wisconsin's largest catfish species. Lake Winnebago produced the state record at nearly 75 pounds. Also found in the Wisconsin, Mississippi, and Wolf rivers. Trophy flatheads are caught annually from the Winnebago system.

Size Limit

No minimum

Daily Bag

10 (combined catfish)

Season

Year-round

State Record

74 lb 8 oz

Lake Winnebago (2005)

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

Flathead Catfish Fishing in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s largest catfish species. Lake Winnebago produced the state record at nearly 75 pounds. Also found in the Wisconsin, Mississippi, and Wolf rivers. Trophy flatheads are caught annually from the Winnebago system.

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Plan Your Flathead Catfish Trip

Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next flathead catfish fishing trip in Wisconsin.

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Regulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Wisconsin DNR regulations before fishing. A Wisconsin fishing license is required for ages 16+.