CHANNEL CATFISH

Channel Catfish are the most popular catfish species in North America — and it’s not even close. Found from coast to coast, they’re known for being hardy, aggressive, and great eating. You’ll find them in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and even ponds. They're also heavily stocked by fisheries due to their value as a sport and food fish.

They have that signature whiskered face, a deeply forked tail, and smooth skin. Channel cats are omnivores, scavengers, and opportunistic feeders, making them super fun to target with a variety of baits. Whether you're dunking stink bait off a dock or battling a 20-pounder in the river current, channel catfish always bring the action.

Record Size: 58lbs

Where to Find Them: Near cover like logs, rocks, bridge pilings, deep holes in rivers, and the bottom of lakes. Often caught at night or early morning

Fried Catfish Recipe 

1. Channel cats have over 100,000 taste buds — they “taste” with their whole body.
   
   

2. Their whiskers (called barbels) are packed with sensors to help find food in murky water.
   
   

3. Some anglers use soap bars as bait… and it works!