Stonecat
🔬 Noturus flavus
The Stonecat is a small native madtom catfish found under flat rocks in fast, rocky rivers and streams across Michigan. Nocturnal and secretive, they are rarely seen but commonly caught while fishing for Smallmouth Bass and trout in rivers. Handle carefully — their pectoral spines can cause a mild sting.
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Bite this month
Good
Best season
Summer (June–August)
Regulations
limit No limit
Where to Catch Stonecat in Michigan
Stonecat Conservation Status
The daily bag limit is No limit.
Stonecat Habitat & Behavior
Fast, rocky riffles and runs in clear, clean rivers and streams. Hide under flat rocks and gravel during the day. Found in major river systems statewide including the Muskegon, Au Sable, and Kalamazoo. DNR records show Stonecat present in 396 Michigan water bodies. Bite activity rates Good or better in May, Jun, Jul, Aug and Sep.
Best Stonecat Techniques
Small hooks with worms drifted along the bottom in rocky runs — most active at night
Best Stonecat Baits
Night crawlers, wax worms, small crayfish, cut bait
Stonecat Fishing Regulations in Michigan
No limit
Daily limit
No limit
Possession limit
Year-round
Season
No bag or size limits. Handle with care — pectoral fin spines may cause mild irritation.
⚠️ Regulations shown are general statewide guidelines for 2025. Rules vary by water body and change annually.
Always verify current regulations in the official Michigan DNR Fishing Guide before you fish.
Best Times to Fish Stonecat
Angler Tips for Stonecat
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