Hardhead Catfish

Blue-gray above with a silvery belly. Dorsal and pectoral spines are sharp and mildly venomous. Distinguished from Gafftopsail Catfish by the lack of elongated fin extensions and by a bony plate with a cross-like ridge on top of the head. Adults reach 12–18 inches and 1–3 lbs.\n\n

Best Baits: Shrimp (top bait), cut mullet, crab, squid, worms.\n\n

Extremely common and voracious — a frequent and sometimes unwanted catch on Gulf Coast bottom rigs. Males orally brood eggs and fry. Handle carefully — spine injuries are painful.