Minnesota River Flathead Catfishing Hoop Net with the MN DNR

Following the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources as they hoop net Flathead Catfish. Biologists have found that large hoop nets can be effective methods. Four-foot-diameter hoop nets sit in the river, stretched taut by current and large anchors. Fish enter the mouth of the net and funnel into the upstream tapered end, from which they cannot escape. The net creates a current break that attracts flatheads, much like a hollow log or a snag pile does. Other fish incidentally caught in the net may attract flatheads moving upstream in the dark, looking for prey.

The goal of the study is to better understand these fish as well as how to actively manage them

Thanks to the staff of the MN DNR for allowing us to follow along and document the process with permission.



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