Bullhead

Description
Both the black and brown variety of bullhead have been introduced into Idaho. They have become a popular game fish for springtime anglers using worms as bait. They are a type of catfish, but never get as big as the channel catfish. Their back is yellowish brown to almost black with an undersurface of yellow to white. It is not native to Idaho, the distribution of both the black and brown bullhead is sparse. These species require warm waters to shallow ponds, lakes, or river sloughs. The black bullhead prefers places with aquatic weeds.

Life History
In the spring, females scoop out saucer-shaped nests in mud or sand. The adhesive-type eggs are guarded by one or both parents. They fuss over the eggs, fanning the eggs with their tails and stirring them with their barbells. The fry leave the nest in a school, and the parents continue to guard them until they are about an inch long.

Feeding Habits
Food of both the black and brown bullhead is composed of snails, worms, aquatic insects, and plant material.

Angling Technique
The most popular way to fish for bullheads is by dunking a worm or cut bait. They are nocturnal feeders, so fishing is best at night. Spring is the most popular time of year to catch them.