Species guide
How to catch Hardhead sea catfish
Ariopsis felis
brackishsaltwatergame fishAriidae
The Hardhead sea catfish is a predatory fish found in coastal waters of the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico. It has an elongated body and feeds mainly on organic matter, crustaceans, fish, and blue crabs. This species can grow up to 70 cm in length and weigh as much as 5.5 kg.
Where they live
Common in brackish and saltwater habitats along the North American Atlantic coast, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico, often found in waters with varied salinity and temperature.
Typical size
Up to about 70 cm
What they eat
- organic matter
- crustaceans
- fish
- blue crabs
Best baits
- cut bait
- shrimp
- crab
- worms
Best lures
- soft plastic shrimp imitations
- jigs
- small spoons
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- drift fishing
- using fish finders to locate structure
Track every Hardhead sea catfish you catch.
Bobbr turns each catch into a species collection, quests, and streaks. We're building it now — join the iOS waitlist for $19 lifetime founding access.
Claim founding access