Species index / Amur Catfish
T.19Amur Catfish

Amur Catfish

Chinese freshwater target
Target illustration
Amur Catfish
Amur Catfish
HABITAT & CONTEXT
Water
Freshwater
Habitat
Muddy or covered areas in rivers, lakes and reservoirs; bridge piers, docks, rock holes and submerged timber.
Lure guidance
Try strong vibration or sound, such as spinnerbaits or rattling lures, at night and in stained water. Fine tooth bands line the mouth; use tools when unhooking.
01Local Field Notes

Behavior and tackle

These local examples use the middle and lower Yangtze climate for monthly activity and do not represent every species in a group.

Amur Catfish Silurus asotus

A nocturnal bottom predator with a wide mouth, a pair of barbels on each jaw and no scales. It hides in holes or cover by day and comes out to feed at night.

Habitat

  • Mud bottoms or cover in rivers, lakes and reservoirs
  • Under bridge pilings, docks, rock holes and fallen trees

Behavior

  • Finds prey mainly by smell and lateral line, and is sensitive to vibration and sound.
  • Most active at night and on dark, rainy days.

Monthly activity

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12

Recommended Tackle

Rod
M–MH, around 7'0"
Reel
Baitcaster or spinning 3000
Line
PE #1.5–2 + fluoro leader 16–20 lb
  • Loud, high-vibration lures (spinnerbaits, rattling baits) work better at night and in muddy water.
  • Its mouth has bands of fine teeth; use a tool to unhook it.
02Lure Options

Lure options

03Rig Options

Rig options