Flathead Catfish

Havana, Arkansas, provides access to the Arkansas River, a renowned fishery for flathead catfish. The river's diverse structure, including deep holes, log jams, and rocky bluffs, creates ideal habitat for these ambush predators. Flatheads are most active during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Target these fish by fishing live bait, such as bream or small bullheads, near submerged structure. They are ambush predators and will often lie in wait for prey to come within striking distance. A local tip is to focus your efforts around the mouths of creeks and rivers that feed into the Arkansas River. These areas often hold concentrations of baitfish, which in turn attract flatheads. Access to the river is available through various boat ramps and public access points along Highway 10. Be aware of barge traffic on the Arkansas River and navigate accordingly. Flathead catfish in the Arkansas River are known for their impressive size, with many fish exceeding 50 pounds. Strong tackle is essential for landing these powerful fish.