The black bullhead (Ameiurus melas) is a hardy, bottom-dwelling catfish native to North America, recognized for its stocky build, dark coloration, and adaptability to a wide range of freshwater habitats, including lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. This species is primarily harvested in the United States, where it is both a popular target for recreational anglers and, to a lesser extent, a subject of small-scale commercial fisheries, especially in the Midwest and Southern states. Canada also supports black bullhead populations, with local fishing activity concentrated in southern Ontario and Quebec. While not a major commercial species globally, black bullhead have been introduced to several European countries, such as Italy, Spain, and Hungary, where they are sometimes caught by local anglers, though they are often considered invasive. Overall, the United States remains the top country for black bullhead fishing, both in terms of harvest and angling interest.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Slovenia | 4 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.