Pond Boss Forums MANAGING AN EXISTING POND Corrective stocking REMOVING FHC FROM POND

I just finished reading about eliminating bullhead from ponds. I was wondering if the same techniques would work for FHCs? (Flat head Catfish)

At what water temperature do FHC spawn? The same as LMB?

They used garbage cans with 6" holes during the spawn to remove the fish and eggs. Would a FHC hold up in one during the year just because it is a secure place to hide when they are not hunting for food? Do you think it might also work for Bowfin?

It seems like a new idea that is worth a try. I have had lines out all summer & had some success removing FHC & Bowfin. Now that the water has cooled so has my good luck removing them.

Does FHCs = Flat Head Catfish?

That's my guess, too.

I was thinking of the noodling stories I have read. I am sure they are noodling after the big cats. The FHC gets too be the biggest. The stories go that they search for holes in the bottom or bank then reach in and see if there is a cat in the hole. Stick your hand in his mouth & pull him out. So perhaps a FHC might like a garbage can to hide in if he did not have a better place ?

Kids and the fairer sex seem to find some good ones too…

http://www.catfishgrabblers.com/

TGrey, that is one interesting website. Can you say R-E-D-N-E-C-K? Kinda brings a tear to my eye.

I'm not sure if I have more respect for a lady that wants to go noodling or less respect.

I figure it's like baiting their own hook. While a gentleman should be prepared to bait a lady's hook for her, one should relish and enjoy the company of a lady who baits her own. I feel the same way about noodling.

All right, Theo, but do you noodle?

It may be tough to get down deep enough with that PFD on.

My wife baits her own hooks.

Do I noodle?

Just take a look at the King Ding-a-Ling photo and see how many noodles you can count.

Remind me to tell you guys about the guy who met his future wife on the shores of a lake next to an outhouse.
In the meantime, I'll try to un-hijack the thread so J.E. Craig gets an answer.....
Flathead catfish spawn well after largemouth bass. If bass spawn in March, flatheads spawn in late May, early June. Yes, a flathead will hole up in a trash can, if there is no other better place. But, it has to be completely closed in, with a hole in one end that's large enough for the fish to go in. In order for a catfish to stay inside, he also needs a reason. Eggs...that means there must also be a mommy. The best way to remove flathead catfish is to consistently fish for them, spring to fall. When they go inside a place to hide, it's strictly for spawning. They don't normally hide in caves. They live in similar habitat as largemouth bass. They like cover, fairly shallow, quick access to deep water. Bowfins would rather live in or near thick aquatic vegetation.