Ictalurus punctatus

spotted cat, blue channel cat, river catfish

fresh

Channel catfish closely resemble blue catfish. Both have deeply forked tails. However, channels have a rounded anal fin with 24-29 rays and scattered black spots along their back and sides. They have a small, narrow head. The back is blue-gray with light blue to silvery-gray sides and a white belly. Larger channels lose the black spots and also take on a blue-black coloration on the back which shades to white on the belly. Males also become very dark during spawning season and develop a thickened pad on their head.

Channell cats are most common in big rivers and streams. They prefer some current and deep water with sand, gravel or rubble bottoms. Channel catfish also inhabit lakes, reservoirs and ponds. They adapt well in standing water where stocked.

Feeds primarily at night using taste buds in the sensitive barbels and throughout the skin to locate prey. Although they normally feed on the bottom, channels also will feed at the surface and at mid-depth. Major foods are aquatic insects, crayfish, mollusks, crustaceans and fishes. Small channels consume invertebrates, but larger ones may eat fish. Contrary to popular belief, carrion is not their normal food.

The fish's weight generally averages 2 to 4 pounds. Studies indicate 14 years as the maximum age for this species, but some fish probably live 15 to 20 years.

Most channels are caught by bottom fishing with baits such as dried chicken blood, chicken livers or gizzards and nightcrawlers. They prefer dead or prepared stinkbaits to live bait but at times will take live minnows and lures such as spinners and jigs. Strong fighters with good endurance, they are frequently caught on trotlines. Since channel catfish can also be taken by commercial fishermen.

Considered one of the best-eating freshwater fish. The meat is white, tender and sweet when taken from clean water.