Flathead Catfish

Targeting flathead catfish near Hatley, Mississippi, means heading to the 'Big Bee' – the Tombigbee River. This river system, with its deep holes and abundant structure, provides ideal habitat for these ambush predators. Flatheads in the Tombigbee can reach impressive sizes, so be prepared for a battle. Live bait is the name of the game here; bream, shad, or even small bullheads are the go-to choices. Focus your efforts on areas with submerged logs, rock piles, or deep bends in the river. Summer nights are when flatheads are most active. A practical tip: many locals fish from the bank around the Highway 6 bridge, but be mindful of current and debris. Also, heavy tackle is a must – these fish are strong and can easily break lighter lines. The flathead population in the Tombigbee is healthy, and with the right approach, you stand a good chance of landing a trophy.