How to Skin and Clean Catfish. Flathead catfish are a popular freshwater fish among professional anglers and amateur fishermen alike. Catfish have tough, leathery skin that's difficult to eat if it's left on the meat. And at 1-2 a year, Thats about as many as I keep a year, if that. Native to North America, this species can be found in dim underwater environments, like sinkholes, small caves, root tangles, and in the shadows of larger rocks. Nick Kerber with the single best video we've ever seen on how to clean a trophy flathead. Haven't seen any post on cleaning a flathead so thought we could open it up for all the feedback out there. Noodling A flathead & Cleaning A flathead catfish & cooking it If you agree, share this! Fishing for one is the first step in preparation. If I post a picture of a Flathead on FB that I keep, he will call me a meat hunter and give me hell. Here are some simple ways on how to clean a catfish. Flatheads are unique in body shape, so lets open it up and see what kind of help is out there. The first step of preparing a catfish is of course having one! He really likes using a three letter word that starts with f and ends in g. But it’s ok for him to keep them I guess. How To Catch Flathead Catfish With Old School "Stealth Rigs" First off, for catching flathead catfish I recommend a 7' medium/heavy action rod (minimum)... and a … I saw in general catfishing about bleeding which I do especially for processing a flathead. Next, you will need to use a good sharp knife that will remove the catfish’ head and skin easily enough. Fill the bags with water 1″ over the top of the fish. Here’s how to freeze your catfish fillets: Put the cleaned and washed fillets into Ziplock bags. Place in the freezer and freeze your catfish fillets. Call me all sorts of names and call my wife fat. Remove the air from the bag (by squeezing it) Seal the bag well. Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice and mix well.