Flathead Catfish

Crystal Springs, Mississippi, is a great base for targeting flathead catfish in the Pearl River. These whiskered giants lurk in deep holes and around structure, waiting to ambush their prey. Live bait is essential for flatheads – think bream, bullheads, or even large shiners. Fish these baits on heavy tackle with a strong hook and sinker to keep them near the bottom. Summer nights are prime time for flathead fishing, as they become more active under the cover of darkness. A key to success is finding the right location. Look for areas with submerged logs, rock piles, or deep bends in the river. Public access to the Pearl River is available at several points around Crystal Springs. Be patient; flathead fishing requires persistence, but the reward of landing a trophy-sized fish is well worth the effort. The Pearl River flatheads are known for their size, with some reaching impressive weights.