Species index / Amur Catfish
T.19Amur Catfish
Amur Catfish
Chinese freshwater target
Target illustration

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

