What perplexing, spiny catfish relative was sometimes found in smallmouth stomachs in certain Virginia rivers, despite easier prey being available?

Answer

Madtoms

Madtoms, which are small catfish members equipped with sharp, barbed fins, were found in some Virginia river bass stomachs, causing confusion because less-spiny options were abundant locally.

What perplexing, spiny catfish relative was sometimes found in smallmouth stomachs in certain Virginia rivers, despite easier prey being available?
fooddietbassfishsmallmouth