Channel Catfish

Ictalurus punctatus

Widely stocked across Ohio — great summer and nighttime fishing.

Size Limit
None
Daily Bag
10
Season
Year-round
State Record
37 lbs 10 oz
Lake Erie (1992)

Best Months to Fish

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

What to Use

Live Bait & Natural

chicken livercut shadnightcrawlersstink baitshrimp

Lures & Artificials

dip baitspunch baits

Overview

Channel catfish are widely stocked in Ohio’s inland reservoirs and rivers. They’re excellent fighters and great eating. The Ohio River, Muskingum River, and many state park lakes offer outstanding catfish fishing, particularly during warm summer nights.

More Ohio Fish Species

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Plan Your Channel Catfish Trip

Find lakes, guides, and bait shops for your next channel catfish fishing trip in Ohio.

Explore Lakes   Find a Guide   Bait & Tackle

Regulations shown are statewide defaults. Some waters have special regulations — always check the current Ohio DNR regulations before fishing. An Ohio fishing license is required for ages 16+.