Gafftopsail Catfish fishing in Florida

Gafftopsail catfish, or gafftops, are the larger, better-looking cousins of the hardhead, recognized by their long, flag-like dorsal and pectoral spines and heavy slime. They are most common along the Gulf coast and in bays and passes through the warm months, feeding on the bottom in the surf, in channels and around piers and bridges, often more actively at night and in slightly murky water on a rising tide. Unlike hardheads they will chase moving baits, and they take cut fish, shrimp and squid readily. A Carolina or fish-finder rig with 1 to 3 oz of lead, 20 lb line and a 1/0 to 3/0 circle hook works well. They are good eating and many anglers keep them, but the slime is thick and the dorsal and pectoral spines are sharp and carry venom that causes a painful sting. Hold them from behind, avoid the spines, use pliers or a dehooker, and cut the leader if a fish is badly tangled. Check current FWC rules before keeping one.