Channel catfish are distinguished by a deeply forked tail fin and younger fish have spots on the body, while adults may be too darkly colored for you to see the spots. White catfish are smaller, have a less deeply forked tail and lack the spots. The state record for channel cats is 44.5 pounds and the "Big Catch" qualifying size is 31" or 15 pounds (applications are available in the fishing regs, at GFC offices or on our web site). Most channels are caught by bottom fishing with baits such as dried chicken blood, chicken livers or gizzards, and nightcrawlers. They prefer dead or prepared stinkbaits to live bait, but at times will take live minnows and lures such as spinners and jigs. Strong fighters with good endurance, they are frequently caught on trotlines. Since channel catfish can also be taken by commercial fishermen, except where stocked by the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission (GFC), they are not legally classified as sportfish and there is not a statewide bag limit. In most urban ponds and Fish Management Areas where the FWC stocks catfish, the bag limit is six.

White catfish are similar with more rounded fins, and they are smaller. The state record is 18.9 pounds and the "Big Catch" qualifying size is 22" or 5 pounds.

Other Florida catfish include the flathead catfish, which is a recent introduction having expanded its range to include the Apalachicola, Escambia and other panhandle rivers. The fish gets it's name from the obviously flattened appearance of its forehead and is typically yellow in color. The flathead is a voracious fish eater and the record is being frequently reset as the fish adapts to Florida. Transporting these fish to other areas is illegal due to concern for disrupting natural systems. Currently, it is 43.5 pounds and the "Big Catch" qualifying size is 36" or 25 pounds.

Smaller more widespread cousins of the catfish are bullheads. These fish have almost square tail. Yellow and brown bullheads are most common in Florida waters and tolerate low oxygen levels. They are often caught most effectively at night. Fish on the bottom with a sturdy #2 to #4 hook and a heavy split shot sinker. Catfish spines may cause a painful injury, and anglers should take care when handling these fish.

If you are a catfish enthusiast and want more information get on the "Catfish Man's" mailing list by writing Joe Crumpton, FWC, PO Box 1903, Eustis, Florida 32727.

Volunteers are Always Needed and Appreciated
Eric Johnson is the Fisheries Statewide Volunteer Coordinator. If you are serious about volunteering, contact him at FWC, 3900 Drane Field Road, Lakeland, FL 33811 (Phone: 941/648- 3202; Fax: 941/701-1248 or email: eric.johnso@MyFWC.com). He will put you in touch with local biologists, so that you can contribute your time and skill to helping conserve Florida's aquatic resources and encouraging angler participation.

Volunteers help teach youth, seniors, women and the general populace to fish at both basic and advanced levels. They help with hands on habitat management such as planting desirable aquatic vegetation or removing nuisance plants and doing fish surveys. Volunteers also help construct and repair fishing piers, ramps, bank access areas, picnic facilities and other fishing amenities, including constructing fish attractors. In addition, volunteers often help distribute information at fishing and boating shows, fairs and other popular events where we seek to inform the public about local fishing opportunities. It's a great opportunity for you to share your knowledge and skills while getting back the joy of helping others and being a true resource steward.

National Fishing Week is Coming!
National Fishing Week 1999 is June 5 to June 13.(Note: From this link select National Fishing Week under the Outreach category). Watch for announcements about local fishing events. Karl Malone is the honorary chairman and will be featured in a public service campaign to celebrate the fun and tradition of recreational fishing and to encourage adults to share the experience with others. The Utah Jazz power forward is a lifelong angler and has been involved in youth fishing education programs near his home in Salt Lake City.