In streams Channels inhabit the deeper pools. It is now necessary to stock Channel catfish in streams to maintain their populations. The most effective means of fishing for Channel and Blue catfish in the lakes are trotlines and floating fishing devices. They can be deadly as well as unsightly. Spearfishing is also a very popular method of catfish fishing.
Catfish fishing is good year around, even in the dead of winter.
Trotlines and set poles are effective in streams. Flathead Catfish Flathead catfish are native to most of the Arkansas Ozarks waters, including lakes and streams. They are a pure carnivore, eating almost nothing that is not alive. For table quality they are generally considered the best of the catfish. Size does not make a perceptible difference in the flavor of their meat as it does with other catfish that acquire a stronger flavor as they age.