Catfish Fishing Regulations in Pennsylvania: What Every Angler Needs to Know
June 7, 2026
Pennsylvania’s rivers and reservoirs hold some of the most exciting catfish fishing in the Mid-Atlantic region, but knowing the rules before you wet a line is just as important as knowing where to drop your bait.
Whether you’re targeting a trophy flathead on the Susquehanna or a mess of channel cats on the Ohio River, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) sets the seasons, bag limits, and legal methods you must follow. This guide breaks down every regulation you need to stay legal and make the most of your time on the water.
Important Note: Catfish regulations in Pennsylvania are actively evolving. The PFBC voted in April 2026 to propose new rules for the Ohio River Basin. Always verify current rules at the official Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations page before your trip.
Catfish Species Found in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to a diverse mix of catfish species, ranging from hard-fighting giants to smaller bullheads perfect for family fishing trips. Understanding which species you’re targeting helps you apply the right regulations and choose the most effective tactics. You can also explore a broader look at different types of catfish found across North America.
The channel catfish is the most widely distributed and popular catfish in the state. The channel catfish rarely exceeds 30 lbs, and smaller individuals often have dark spots that are not found on the blue catfish. The channel catfish’s upper jaw extends over the lower, and it has a forked tail instead of a squared tail — thriving in reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and large streams.
The flathead catfish is one of Pennsylvania’s most impressive and ecologically significant species. Key characteristics of the flathead catfish are its flattened head, tiny eyes, squared tail, and protruding lower jaw — it can grow up to 60 inches long and weigh on average 30 lbs, although some have been known to reach over 100 lbs. It is native to the western part of Pennsylvania in the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela river watersheds; however, it is considered invasive in eastern Pennsylvania.
Flathead catfish have also spread dramatically in recent decades. Flathead catfish were first detected in the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania in 2002, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, and in the two decades since then the invasive species has spread throughout the river basin. Some specimens are known to grow more than 4 feet long and nearly 70 pounds in Pennsylvania waters.
Blue catfish are a newer presence in Pennsylvania waters and are the subject of an active reintroduction program. The upper jaw protrudes well beyond the lower, the body is slate blue above fading to silver-white on the sides and belly, and the outer margin of the anal fin is straight with a deeply forked caudal fin. Adults usually grow to be less than 2 feet long, but can be as long as 5 feet and weigh more than 100 lbs.
Rounding out the catfish family in Pennsylvania are three bullhead species and the white catfish. Medium-sized catfish include three bullheads — yellow, brown, and black — and the white catfish. Black bullheads are endangered in Pennsylvania, and adult bullheads measure between 15 to 20 inches in length. For a deeper dive into record-breaking catfish sizes across all species, check out this guide on the largest catfish ever recorded.
Key Insight: If you catch a flathead catfish in eastern Pennsylvania waterways like the Susquehanna or Schuylkill, you are dealing with an invasive species. The PFBC encourages anglers not to release them back into these waters.
Catfish Season Dates in Pennsylvania
One of the most angler-friendly aspects of catfishing in Pennsylvania is that the season is open year-round on Commonwealth inland waters. Catfish opportunities are broader and often shine in summer nights on rivers and reservoirs. Unlike trout or bass, which carry specific closed periods or harvest windows, catfish do not have a defined closed season under statewide general regulations.
Summer is widely considered the prime time to target catfish in Pennsylvania. Warm water temperatures push catfish into active feeding mode, and night fishing on large rivers during June, July, and August consistently produces the best results. Channel cats and flatheads both become highly aggressive feeders as water temperatures climb into the 70s.
Winter catfishing is possible but requires adjusting your approach. In the winter, choose your catfishing spot carefully because these big fish get quite apathetic in cold water. Your best shot is Brunner’s Island on the Susquehanna, where a nearby power plant regularly discharges warm water — both flatheads and channel cats come here to feed.
Pro Tip: Pennsylvania also designates two Fish-for-Free Days each year — May 24 and July 4 — when anyone can fish without a license. These are great days to introduce new anglers to catfishing.
Daily Bag Limits for Catfish in Pennsylvania
Bag limits for catfish in Pennsylvania depend on the specific waterbody and species you are targeting. Understanding these limits is critical, especially as the PFBC is actively updating its regulations for certain regions of the state.
For most Commonwealth inland waters, the statewide general limit applies. As of now, catfish throughout the whole state have a daily limit of 50 fish per day with no size limit, similar to that of panfish. This broad limit reflects how catfish — particularly channel cats and bullheads — have traditionally been managed as a panfish-style species across most of Pennsylvania.
However, the Ohio River Basin is undergoing a significant regulatory shift. Commissioners voted in April 2026 to authorize the publication of proposed rulemaking pertaining to miscellaneous special regulations for catfish within the Ohio River Basin. Under this proposal, catch-and-release regulations would be implemented for Blue Catfish, a four-fish-per-day creel limit for Flathead Catfish would be implemented with only one of the four flatheads being greater than or equal to 35 inches in length, and for all other species of catfish and in lakes within the Ohio River Basin, Commonwealth Inland Waters regulations would apply.
Anglers in Western Pennsylvania may have some new catfish regulations to learn in 2027. The PFBC is considering a new proposal that would change catfish regulations in the Ohio River Basin, affecting anglers who catfish the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers around Pittsburgh and the western region of the state.
| Waterbody / Region | Species | Daily Bag Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Inland Waters (statewide) | All catfish species | 50 fish/day, no size limit | Current rule |
| Ohio River Basin (flowing waters) | Blue Catfish | Catch-and-release only (proposed) | Proposed for 2027 |
| Ohio River Basin (flowing waters) | Flathead Catfish | 4/day; only 1 may be 35″+ (proposed) | Proposed for 2027 |
| Ohio River Basin (lakes) | All catfish species | Commonwealth Inland Waters rules apply | Proposed for 2027 |
These proposed regulations would replace the current 50-fish-per-day limit on catfish with no minimum size, in which catfish are included among panfish. The goal of this proposed change is to enhance protections for Blue Catfish, which are the focus of a historic reintroduction plan by the PFBC within the Three Rivers, and prevent the potential overexploitation of Flathead Catfish.
Important Note: The Ohio River Basin proposals discussed above had not been finalized as of May 2026. These changes would only affect catfishing on the Ohio River Basin in Pennsylvania. Other bodies of water in the state will maintain the original catfish regulations for blue catfish and flathead catfish, as they are not native to waters outside the Ohio River Basin.
Size and Length Limits for Catfish in Pennsylvania
Under the current statewide general regulations, there is no minimum size or length limit for catfish on Commonwealth inland waters. Catfish throughout the whole state have a daily limit of 50 fish per day with no size limit, similar to that of panfish. This means you can legally keep any size catfish you catch on most Pennsylvania waters without worrying about a minimum length requirement.
The proposed Ohio River Basin regulations would introduce the first size-based restriction for catfish in the state. Where the proposal, if approved, would change the daily limit on flowing waters of the Ohio River Basin to catch and release only for Blue Catfish, and a daily limit of four fish with only one allowed to be longer than 35 inches for Flathead Catfish. This type of slot-style limit is designed to protect the largest, most reproductively valuable fish in the population.
These new changes would also better line up with the catfish regulations of West Virginia, which has a similar 35-inch upper slot limit on certain rivers. Regional consistency in regulations helps anglers who fish boundary waters and supports coordinated conservation goals across state lines.
Pro Tip: Even where no size limit exists, practicing voluntary catch-and-release on large flathead catfish helps sustain trophy fisheries. The latest Pennsylvania record flathead was hooked in the Susquehanna in 2019, right next to Lower Bear Island — the fish weighed over 50 pounds and was just over 45 inches long, and it was released back to the river.
Legal Methods for Catching Catfish in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania allows a wider range of legal fishing methods for catfish than for most other species. Standard rod-and-reel fishing with bait is the most common approach, but the PFBC also permits several alternative methods specifically for catfish. Choosing the right setup starts with selecting the right gear — take a look at the different types of fishing rods and types of fishing reels best suited for targeting large catfish.
Bowfishing is one of the most exciting alternative methods available to Pennsylvania catfish anglers. Bow and arrow — including compound bows and crossbows — may be used for taking only snakeheads, carp, suckers, and catfish on all Commonwealth waters, day or night, with the following exceptions: bowfishing is strictly prohibited in stocked trout waters during the closed season, bowfishing is strictly prohibited in special regulations trout waters, it is unlawful to cast direct rays of a spotlight from any watercraft upon any occupied building or another watercraft, and it is unlawful to use generators on board a watercraft while bowfishing with a noise level that exceeds 90 decibels.
Spears and gigs are another legal option for targeting catfish in Pennsylvania. Spears or gigs may be used to take only snakeheads, carp, suckers, and catfish. Spears or gigs may not be mechanically propelled, may not have more than five barbed points, and may not be used in stocked trout waters.
For traditional rod-and-reel catfishing, the most productive rigs use cut bait, chicken liver, stink bait, or live baitfish. Understanding the full range of different types of fishing rigs — from Carolina rigs to three-way rigs — will give you a significant advantage when targeting bottom-feeding catfish. You should also be aware of Pennsylvania’s live bait rules: unused live bait should be disposed of in the trash; it is unlawful in Pennsylvania to release any unused live bait.
- Rod and reel with natural or prepared bait (statewide)
- Bowfishing with compound bows or crossbows (day or night, with restrictions)
- Spears or gigs (non-mechanically propelled, max five barbed points)
- Trotlines and jug lines where permitted under PFBC special regulations
- Hand fishing (noodling) — check current PFBC rules, as this method has specific restrictions
Common Mistake: Many anglers assume they can release unused live baitfish into Pennsylvania waters. This is illegal and contributes to the spread of invasive species — including, historically, the flathead catfish itself. Always dispose of leftover live bait in the trash.
For a broader understanding of fishing approaches that work well for catfish, including bottom fishing and drift fishing, explore the different types of fishing techniques used by experienced anglers.
Fishing License Requirements for Catfish in Pennsylvania
A valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required to catfish on any state water. A valid fishing permit is required for any person age 16 or older who fishes in Pennsylvania’s inland waters, Lake Erie, or its tributaries. Anglers under 16 can fish for catfish without a license, making it an accessible family activity.
For the 2026 season, a Pennsylvania fishing license costs $27.97 for residents (ages 16–64) and $60.97 for non-residents. Licenses went on sale December 1, 2025 — valid through December 31, 2026 — and can be purchased online at HuntFish.pa.gov, through the FishBoatPA mobile app, or at nearly 700 retail issuing agents statewide.
| License Type | Cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Resident Annual (ages 16–64) | $27.97 |
| Non-Resident Annual | $60.97 |
| Resident Multi-Year (3-year) | $76.97 |
| Senior Resident (65+) Lifetime | $51.97 |
| 1-Day License | $1 + issuing fee |
Catfishing does not require any additional permit beyond the base fishing license. You do not need a trout permit or Lake Erie permit to target catfish. Anglers don’t have to display the license visibly but must carry it — either printed or on a digital device — and produce it on demand from a Waterways Conservation Officer.
Anglers under 16 can fish free but may purchase an optional voluntary youth license for $2.97. Disabled veterans may qualify for free or reduced-cost licenses. If you fish boundary waters shared with other states, be aware of reciprocal license agreements. For example, a Pennsylvania or Ohio license is valid on the Pymatuning Reservoir when fishing from a boat, though this does not include shore fishing.
If you enjoy fishing for other species in Pennsylvania, be sure to review the regulations for bass fishing season in Pennsylvania and trout fishing season in Pennsylvania, as those species carry additional permit requirements and seasonal restrictions. You can also compare how other states handle fishing regulations by checking out guides like bass fishing regulations in Ohio or bass fishing regulations in Virginia.
Pro Tip: The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is a user-funded agency receiving no General Fund tax revenue — it depends on license sales to fund conservation, stocking programs, and waterway maintenance. Buying your license directly supports the fisheries you enjoy.
Best Catfish Fishing Spots in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s extensive river systems and reservoirs offer outstanding catfishing from one end of the state to the other. From massive flatheads lurking in the Susquehanna to channel cats stacked up in western Pennsylvania rivers, you have no shortage of productive water to explore.
Susquehanna River — The Susquehanna is Pennsylvania’s most celebrated catfish destination. As you move to the lower portion of the river, catfish take center stage. The stretch between York Haven Dam all the way to Columbia is teeming with all sizes of flatheads and channel cats. Channel catfish are a popular catch throughout the river, and anglers fishing anywhere from Sunbury to Harrisburg could stumble upon a decent channel cat ranging from 15 to 35 inches. The Susquehanna is also filled with walleye and panfish alongside its catfish populations, making it a versatile destination. Use strong lines and leaders for monster cats, because they hide around big, sharp rocks.
Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela Rivers (Pittsburgh Area) — Western Pennsylvania’s Three Rivers are the heart of the state’s native flathead and blue catfish territory. These regulations would affect anglers who catfish the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers around Pittsburgh and the western region of the state. The confluence areas near Pittsburgh offer deep holes and strong current breaks that hold large catfish throughout the summer months. Night fishing with cut shad or live baitfish along the rocky banks produces consistent results.
Delaware River — The Delaware River and its estuary hold channel catfish and white catfish, particularly in the lower stretches where tidal influence creates productive feeding zones. Be aware that the Delaware River has its own specific regulations under 58 Pa. Code § 61.7, so always check the rules for this waterbody separately before fishing.
Pymatuning Reservoir — Located in Crawford County on the Ohio border, Pymatuning is one of Pennsylvania’s largest lakes and a productive catfish destination. A Pennsylvania or Ohio license is valid on the Pymatuning Reservoir when fishing from a boat. Channel catfish congregate around the reservoir’s deeper channels and near structure, especially during summer evenings.
Raystown Lake — Located in Huntingdon County, Raystown Lake is a massive Army Corps of Engineers impoundment that holds channel catfish throughout its 28-mile length. The spillway is a great spot for catfish, especially after seasonal rainfall. The lake’s deep water and abundant forage make it a reliable destination for catfish anglers targeting fish in the 5- to 15-pound range.
Lake Augusta (Sunbury) — This wide section of the Susquehanna just south of Sunbury is a hotspot for multiple species. One of the most productive spots on the river is Lake Augusta, located just south of Sunbury, where a wide variety of species calls these waters home — including catfish, smallmouth bass, musky, walleye, and carp.
| Location | Primary Catfish Species | Best Season | Top Technique |
|---|---|---|---|
| Susquehanna River (York Haven to Columbia) | Flathead, Channel | Summer (June–September) | Cut bait near rock structure |
| Three Rivers (Pittsburgh) | Flathead, Blue, Channel | Summer nights | Live baitfish, cut shad |
| Delaware River (lower stretches) | Channel, White Catfish | Late spring through fall | Bottom rigs with worms or cut bait |
| Pymatuning Reservoir | Channel Catfish | Summer evenings | Stink bait or chicken liver |
| Raystown Lake | Channel Catfish | Summer, post-rain | Bottom fishing near spillway |
| Lake Augusta (Sunbury) | Flathead, Channel | Summer through early fall | Live bait, night fishing |
For additional inspiration on fishing regulations and strategies in neighboring states, you can explore bass fishing regulations in Indiana or compare approaches with fly fishing regulations in Michigan. If you’re planning multi-state fishing trips, reviewing bass fishing regulations in Alabama can also help you understand how southern states manage their catfish and warm-water fisheries.
Key Insight: Summer nights on large Pennsylvania rivers are the most productive time for trophy catfish. Focus on deep holes, current seams, and areas near warm-water discharges for the best results from June through September.
Pennsylvania’s catfish fishery is one of the most accessible and rewarding in the eastern United States. With a year-round open season on most waters, a generous statewide bag limit, and world-class rivers holding both channel cats and massive flatheads, you have every reason to add catfishing to your Pennsylvania angling plans. Keep a close eye on the PFBC’s proposed Ohio River Basin regulations, stay current with your license, and always verify the specific rules for the waterbody you plan to fish before heading out.