So, you may be asking yourself – Are bullhead catfish good to eat?
Or should you pass the experience and consider eating other types of fish?
It is true that bullhead catfish tends to be underrated. In fact, they are not as popular as other catfish varieties simply because these fish species are rather smaller.
However, you will be amazed to know that there is more to this fish than its relatively modest stature.
Learn more about the bullhead catfish, whether it’s good to eat, and what to expect about it. Let’s reel this fish in!
Key Facts About The Bullhead Catfish
As the name implies, the bullhead catfish is from the catfish family. They are typically found in reservoirs, coastal rivers, and ponds.
Otherwise known as mudcats, barbottes, and pollywogs, bullheads are quite interesting creatures. They are relatively small and barely weigh a pound.
Unlike other catfish varieties, bullheads have zero scales. Their skin is smooth, making it easy to clean them after catching them.
Speaking of catching bullheads, you can usually reel these in during the night or late evening. They usually move over to cooler waters in the nighttime, so they can catch some food.
If you are a newbie in angling, bullheads may be one of the few fish species you can try to catch. They are easy to hook in, which makes them appealing to beginner anglers. The fast action is exciting, along with the occasional challenges that may come your way.
Is It Worth it To Catch Bullheads
Once you have a taste of bullheads, you can definitely say to yourself that it is worth every energy spent on trying to catch them.
Either you cook them up for your meal or catch these fish to use as a bait for larger catfish.
But beware – bullheads are hardy. In fact, they can tolerate even a low oxygen level in the water. This is why they are able to stay alive and splash around even when out of the water for hours!
They also can bite you, thanks to their needle-like teeth and strong jaws. If you touch the barbs found on the fins, you may suffer from a stinging sensation as they inject poison in your skin.
The pain is not fatal but it will hurt for hours. Thus, you may need to rub some slime obtained from its belly, which can eliminate the pain.
Read More: Is Beef Liver For Catfish Bait A Great Idea or Not?
How To Cook Bullhead Catfish
Since we are in the topic of catching and eating bullhead catfish, it is worth mentioning these tips on how to cook this fish.
For instance, you can cook them up by pan-frying them, which releases their mild flavor and firm texture.
Others choose to bake bullhead catfish and add something on the side such as a salad or some salsa. But the best way to make things easy for you is by quick pan-frying for 20 minutes, and it should be ready to go.
Grilling the fish whole is another option, then you can pair it off with zesty salsa. No matter which way you prepare this fish, you are sure to enjoy its delectable flavor and aroma. Plus, it is moist, tender, and flaky, which adds to its appeal.
To pan-fry bullhead catfish, be sure to wash and pat dry your fish. Mix in some flour and dredge the fish in spices.
Put some oil in the pan and turn the head to medium high. Add in the bullhead and saute until it turns into a gorgeous golden brown color. Cook the other side and squeeze some lemon juice on each fish you fry.
Then, simply serve with salsa and salad, and it’s ready for munching!
If you wish to bake it, then it is pretty much the same preparation involved. Wash and dry, rub some celery seed, pepper and salt, then squeeze some fresh lemon juice.
Arrange the pieces into the baking sheet and then bake for about 20 minutes. When the internal temps reach 145 degrees, it should be well-done and cooked through. Remove from heat, serve, and voila – a super nutritious treat for you and the family!
Conclusion
Are bullhead catfish good to eat?
Absolutely! And it’s so tasty, too! So, catch yourself some bullhead catfish or pick one up at the store, and consider these cooking tips to let you enjoy the amazing flavor and texture that this catfish variety has to offer. Bon Appetit!
