Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish are the most sought after member of the catfish family, providing excitement by striking at both bait and artificial lures. It is distinguished from other members of the catfish family by its forked tail and the black spots visible along its sides. Channel Catfish will not muddy a pond like its cousin the Bullhead, making it preferable for stocking in those environments. They average from 2-5 pounds, and have been commonly caught over 20 pounds. Feed consists of fish, insects, crustaceans or commercial fish food. Spawning will occur when the water temperature reaches 70 degrees F, usually under a log or stone, but pipe segments or cans over 8 inches in diameter can provide an artificial medium for spawning as well.

NOTE ON SHIPPING FISH: If you would like us to ship your fish directly to you, you must be within the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia. Fish will only ship during the available season. Shipping is calculated at checkout and only offered via UPS overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many channel catfish should I stock per acre?

We recommend up to 200 channel catfish per acre. Our fish are 4-6 inch fingerlings that grow quickly on a diet of fish, insects, crustaceans, or commercial feed.

Will channel catfish muddy my pond or take it over?

No - unlike their bullhead cousins, channel catfish will not muddy a pond. They spawn only where cavity structure exists (logs, stones, or pipes over 8 inches in diameter), so their numbers stay easy to manage; most owners simply restock as fish are harvested.

How big do channel catfish get?

Pond channel catfish average 2-5 pounds, and fish over 20 pounds are commonly caught. They strike both bait and artificial lures, making them one of the most exciting fish in a pond. Feeding a floating commercial feed accelerates growth.

When are channel catfish available?

April through November, with no fish transport during July-August. They spawn once water reaches 70°F.

How do I get live channel catfish from Mid-Atlantic Stocking?

Three ways: free pickup at a scheduled delivery-route stop (routes run roughly monthly, April-October), UPS Next Day Air shipping every Wednesday (order by Tuesday 5 PM) to CT, DE, MD, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA & WV, or direct-to-pond delivery by quote. Fish are packaged with water and pure oxygen.

What if some fish do not survive the trip?

All our fish are certified disease-free, and we replace any mortality over 5% - in transit, or within 48 hours of introduction when the acclimation directions are followed. Document losses with photos and file a Mortality Report on our website.