Flathead Catfish
The largest catfish species in Michigan, Flathead Catfish can exceed 50 lbs and are found in major river systems. Unlike Channel Catfish, Flatheads strongly prefer live prey and are a challenging trophy target.
Where to Catch Flathead Catfish in Michigan
Flathead Catfish Conservation Status
Flathead Catfish Habitat & Behavior
Best Flathead Catfish Techniques
Best Flathead Catfish Baits
Flathead Catfish Fishing Regulations in Michigan
Minimum size of 15" applies statewide. Separate from Channel Catfish limit. Record broken in 2025: Michigan grows trophy flatheads. Primarily found in larger river systems in southern Michigan.
Michigan DNR Flathead Catfish Stocking Records
Flathead Catfish Stocking Events by Lake
| Date | Lake | County | Quantity | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 23, 2000 | Hall Lake | 13 total | 6.4"–8.5" | |
| Jul 23, 2000 | stocking event | 3 | 6.4" | |
| Aug 1, 1999 | stocking event | 10 | 8.5" | |
| Jun 3, 1997 | Sand Lake #1 Grand Traverse County | Grand Traverse | 110 total | 25.3"–33.5" |
| Jun 3, 1997 | stocking event | 20 | 33.5" | |
| Jul 12, 1995 | stocking event | 25 | 30.4" | |
| Aug 10, 1990 | stocking event | 26 | 27.1" | |
| Jul 20, 1990 | stocking event | 10 | 25.3" | |
| Jul 13, 1990 | stocking event | 29 | 26.8" | |
| Sep 30, 1996 | Cowden Lake | 73 | 25" | |
| Jul 24, 1996 | Rush Lake Van Buren County | Van Buren | 7 | 25" |
| May 10, 1996 | Myers Lake | 2,710 total | 3.9"–4.7" | |
| May 10, 1996 | stocking event | 1,507 | 4.7" | |
| Sep 14, 1994 | stocking event | 1,203 | 3.9" | |
| Jul 12, 1995 | Baptist Lake | 47 total | 28.2"–29.4" | |
| Jul 12, 1995 | stocking event | 24 | 29.4" | |
| May 22, 1992 | stocking event | 23 | 28.2" |
Showing the 13 most recent stocking events for Flathead Catfish, across 6 lakes. Lakes with several events can be expanded.
Flathead Catfish DNR Stocking History
Forecast based on historical DNR stocking patterns. Not a guarantee of future stocking. Verify with the Michigan DNR.
Estimated Mature Flathead Catfish, October
Based on DNR stocking records from 2019–2022 (4–7 years ago), these 0 lakes likely hold mature Flathead Catfish at or near 15" keeper size today.
No DNR stocking records found for Flathead Catfish between 2019 and 2022.
This species may not have been stocked in Michigan during that window.
Estimates based on average stocking-size survival rates. Actual populations vary by habitat, fishing pressure, and lake conditions. Data sourced from Michigan DNR.