I’ve never seen a catfish jump, but there’s no doubt that summertime is catfish time. Some of my earliest and fondest memories are of sitting by a farm pond with a box of red worms, eagerly listening for the small copper bell on the tip of “the big rod” to ring while I passed the time bobber-fishing for bluegill. Usually, both species were willing participants, and the countless hours my friends and I spent baiting hooks and battling fish on cheap Zebcos with slipping drags sparked a lifelong passion for angling. Catfish for pond stocking are great for creating an easy-to-maintain fishery that provides steady action for anglers. Whether for sport or food, catfish are a hardy species that thrive in a variety of water conditions.
In this article, Mike Rigdon, a biologist with Southeastern Pond Management since 2006, shares his insights on how to successfully stock and manage a healthy catfish population and where to find channel catfish for sale.
Why Choose Catfish?
For many pond owners, the appeal of catfish is simple: they’re easy to catch. Unlike other species that may require specific techniques, catfish readily take bait, making them an excellent choice for recreational fishing.
When it comes to species selection, Rigdon says it’s entirely “personal preference,” but channel catfish are by far the most popular due to their adaptability and rapid growth.
Stocking Strategies
The number of catfish you should stock depends on how often you plan to fish. Rigdon recommends 50 to 100 pounds of adult catfish per acre, but the exact number varies based on harvest rates. He also emphasizes that while pond size determines stocking levels, depth is not a major factor in the decision.
Catfish can be stocked alone or alongside species like bass and bluegill, depending on the owner’s goals. They’re highly adaptable, but Rigdon notes that water quality does play a role in their success. “Catfish do well in most water types, but less acidic water leads to better growth rates,” he explains.
Feeding for Growth
While catfish can survive on natural forage—especially if bluegill are present—Rigdon advises supplemental feeding for faster, healthier growth. He recommends feeding five pounds of high-quality fish food per acre per day, ideally spread over two to three feedings with an automatic feeder.
However, not all fish food is created equal. One common mistake he sees is choosing a cheap, low-quality feed to save money. “It might be tempting, but poor-quality food won’t provide the nutrients needed for optimal growth,” he warns.
Another advantage of stocking adult catfish is that they are harvest-ready as soon as they are introduced. This means pond owners can immediately enjoy the benefits of their stocked fishery.
Maintaining a Healthy Pond
Keeping a stocked pond in good condition requires monitoring key water parameters. According to Rigdon, oxygen levels are the most critical factor in maintaining fish health. Proper aeration can prevent fish stress and reduce the risk of overcrowding.
One of the most common diseases affecting catfish is columnaris, which appears as red sores on the body. The best treatment? Medicated fish food prescribed by a veterinarian.
Long-Term Management and Restocking
One of the biggest challenges in maintaining a stocked pond is sustaining catfish populations over time—especially in ponds with bass. Bass are known to prey on catfish fry, which means the catfish population will naturally decline as fish are caught or die off.
“It’s really a ‘put-and-take’ fishery,” Rigdon explains. “You’ll need to restock periodically as catch rates go down.”
To ensure a healthy, long-lasting fishery, his number one piece of advice is to find a reputable supplier that has channel catfish for sale to avoid disease and health issues.
Final Thoughts
Stocking and managing catfish doesn’t have to be complicated, but success starts with the right approach. By following expert guidance on stocking rates, feeding strategies, and long-term management, pond owners can enjoy a thriving fishery for years to come. For those looking to stock their pond with healthy, high-quality catfish, Southeastern Pond Management offers expert advice and reliable fish sourcing. Visit SE Pond’s website or contact their team to inquire about channel catfish for sale and to get started building the perfect catfish pond.
