Fishing Charters in Alabama
Browse fishing charters in Alabama that can help you catch flathead catfish.


30Degreesnorthsportfishing
Orange Beach, Alabama
30 Degrees North Sportfishing is a family owned and operated business that has fished for over 30 years in these waters of Southern Al. and Florida. We offer three types of boats to accommodate most any type fishing you and your family and friends may want to do.


Big Wood Fishing Charters
Gulf Shores, Alabama


Addicted 2 Fishing Charters
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Highly rated fishing charter located in Gulf Shores, AL. Contact us today to secure your next trip! We accommodate all ages.


Reel Mccoy Fishing Charters
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Reel McCoy Charters invites you to Dauphin Island, Alabama to spend a beautiful day fishing its rich waters. Enjoy exploring its nearshore and offshore grounds as well as the lovely reefs and hidden wrecks and have lots of fun chasing various species. Captain Joe Cain will help you land a great catch and do everything…


Yankee Star
Foley, Alabama


Fishintrip
Gulf Shores, Alabama


Mossy Tails Charters
Orange Beach, Alabama


Fishing Guide Success
Mobile, Alabama


Island Girl Charters
Island Girl Charters offers deep sea charter fishing for Red Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish and more in Gulf Shores, Alabama. We also offer Cobia Fishing Charters as well as offshore multi-day trips for Tuna, Marlin and Swordfish. Our customers come from Pensacola, Mobile, Orange Beach and all over!


Reel Kill Charters


Sea Dawg Charter
Experience the best fishing charters that Dauphin Island has to offer! Book now and enjoy an exceptional fishing experience with us.


Minutes Of Use
We guarantee our Daulphin Island fishing charters with a no catch-no pay guarantee. Join us for a Gulf Shores deep sea fishing experience you wont forget!
Best Time to Catch Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish can be caught year-round in Athens. Right now in February, activity is Fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Flathead Catfish
The Tennessee River near Athens, Alabama, is a flathead catfish paradise. Wheeler Lake, a major impoundment on the river, is particularly renowned for producing trophy-sized flatheads. These whiskered giants lurk in deep holes, around submerged timber, and near current breaks. Summer and fall are the best times to target them, especially at night. Live bait, such as bluegill or shad, is the preferred method. A local angler's secret: focus on areas near the old river channel. Flathead catfish in Wheeler Lake can reach enormous sizes, with fish exceeding 50 pounds not uncommon. Heavy tackle is essential to handle these powerful fish. Numerous boat ramps provide access, but be prepared for strong currents in some areas. Also, be sure to check local regulations regarding bait restrictions and size limits.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Athens.
Flathead Catfish Fishing Regulations in Alabama
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Only one flathead catfish over 34 inches may be harvested per day.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Alabama state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Alabama
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to catch Flathead Catfish near Athens, Alabama?
Live bait, such as bluegill or shad, is highly effective for catching Flathead Catfish. Cut bait can also work well.
Are there any size restrictions for Flathead Catfish in Alabama?
No, there is no minimum size limit for Flathead Catfish in Alabama. You can keep any size you catch.
How many Flathead Catfish can I keep per day in Alabama?
The daily bag limit for Flathead Catfish in Alabama is 5 fish per person.
Can I fish for Flathead Catfish year-round in Alabama?
Yes, the season for Flathead Catfish is open year-round in Alabama, so you can fish for them any time of the year.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in Alabama
Other Species to Fish in Athens
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Athens?
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