Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In Michigan

All about fishing for flathead and channel catfish in MI.

Many rivers in Michigan have catfish. They can also be found in ponds and small lakes across the state. The larger populations tend to come from some of the major bodies of water including Burt Lake, Grand Lake, Hamlin Lake, Houghton Lake, Indian Lake, Lake Charlevoix, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake St Clair, Lake Superior, Sanford Lake and Wixom Lake.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in Michigan?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

The state record channel catfish (2) were caught from Houghton Lake.

The Barron Lake gave up the state record flathead catfish.

Enjoy an article about MI catfish fishing by Ernest Miller.

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout Michigan. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Catfish Fishing Video

Information for states with catfish.