Flathead Catfish

Targeting Flathead Catfish near Butte, Nebraska, requires a bit of local knowledge and patience. The Niobrara River, which flows not too far from Butte, is your best bet for finding these whiskered giants. While the river isn't as wide or deep as some of the more famous catfish rivers, it still holds good numbers of Flatheads. Summer is the peak season, especially after a good rain that muddies the water and gets the fish moving. Live bait is king here; bluegill or bullheads are hard to beat. Focus your efforts on areas with submerged timber, deep holes, and outside bends in the river. Access can be tricky in some areas, so scouting beforehand is crucial. Look for public access points along the Niobrara State Park or the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. Be prepared for a challenging fight; these Flatheads can put up a serious battle in the river's current.