Fish Profile - Channel Catfish

Channel cats reach trophy size of 20-plus pounds, have good fighting qualities, and are very good to eat. They can be distinguished from other members of the catfish family by their large size and deeply forked tail. Young and most adult channel catfish have many small black spots along their sides, but these often disappear on the larger, older fish.

Channel catfish differ from their cousins the bullheads in that they prefer the clearer waters of large lakes and streams. Often, they are found in currents over gravel or stony bottoms, such as areas below power dams. Channel cats are tolerant of adverse conditions such as low oxygen levels and warm waters, but to a lesser degree than bullheads.

Channel catfish also differ from the bullheads in their nest building technique. Rather than make a depression in the bottom, channel catfish make a tunnel. The tunnels are usually built under logs or in other protected areas where the water is clear. The male guards the eggs and young.

Channel catfish are most active just before sunrise and sunset. Due to their larger size and clearer habitat, adult channel cats may eat more live fish than bullheads and have even been found to have birds in their stomachs.

Channel cats play an important role as a food fish in the United States. They are raised for food on huge catfish farms in several southern states. Their unique ability to quickly turn food into flesh makes them perfect for this purpose. The culture and sale of catfish fillets are becoming a major agricultural industry.

Species Facts

Science Name: Icalurus punctatus Other Names: spotted cat, blue channel cat, river catfish Ideal Temp: 82 to 89 World Record: 58 lbs. SC Environment: river and lakes Techniques: light tackle

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