What is best bait for catching flathead catfish?

1. Live Bluegill: One of the most effective live baits for flathead catfish.

2. Live Sunfish: They mimic the natural prey of flatheads and are readily accepted.

3. Live Perch: Another excellent live bait option, especially in areas with strong current.

4. Live Bullhead Catfish: A natural prey item for flatheads and an irresistible bait.

5. Live Gizzard Shad: Often used for larger flatheads, especially in lakes and rivers.

Cut Bait:

1. Fresh Cutbait: Cut from any oily fish such as skipjack herring, shad, or bluegill.

2. Chicken Liver: Widely used and effective, both fresh and raw.

3. Nightcrawlers: Good bait, can be fished on the hook whole or in bunches.

Artificial Bait:

1. Large Plastic Worms: They resemble natural prey and are an excellent choice.

2. Grubs: Mimic small crayfish or insects that flatheads feed on.

3. Paddletail Swimbaits: Vibrating tails create lifelike movement and can attract flatheads.

Tips for Using Bait:

1. Freshness Matters: Use fresh bait when possible. Fresh baits have more scent and movement.

2. Presentation: Cut bait should have skin and meat dangling off the hook attractively.

3. Hook Size: Use appropriate hook sizes for your target flathead size and bait.

4. Scent Attractants: Consider using scents such as garlic, anise, or shrimp to enhance bait appeal.

Patience is Key: Flathead catfish are often considered one of the most patient fish, so be ready for a long battle once hooked.