Catfish, often associated with the American South and its swampy lowlands, are a staple of the culture and economy of the Mississippi River. It is not surprising, then, that in the Mississippi River, catfish can reach surprisingly large sizes. Whether commercial fishermen are hoping for a big catch or recreational anglers are looking to bring a trophy-sized fish home, the Mississippi River can provide.
Measuring in at an average length of 22 to 28 inches, flathead catfish are the largest of the various catfish species in the Mississippi River. The next-largest is the blue catfish, measuring in at an average length of 22 to 31 inches. Channel catfish, meanwhile, average between 16 and 23 inches in length. In any of these species, though, specimens as large as 50 inches have been seen, much larger than the average of their kind.
These sizes are extremely impressive—especially when compared to the average size of catfish species in other bodies of water (which tend to be in the 11 inch to 13 inch range. Some experts believe that this difference is due to the range of feeding options that the Mississippi River offers, leading to the faster growth of these larger catfish.
What is known for sure is that the Mississippi River is an excellent catfishing spot, both for recreational and commercial fishermen. The growth and size of these catfish make them popular with anglers, who can use many different techniques such as jug fishing, snag fishing, and trotlining to take advantage of the fat populations and large sizes of the catfish living in the Mississippi.
The size of the Mississippi River catfish is only part of the reason they’re so popular, though. Their delicious flavor makes them a food source and treat, while their sporting nature helps to make them popular with anglers. With big cats like the Mississippi’s, a snag fishing or trotline can easily result in a great catch, both for commercial and recreational fishermen.
Variety of Fish Species
There’s an amazing variety of fish species living in the Mississippi River, and catfish are just one of them. Other popular species include bass, carp, white crappie, yellow perch, freshwater drum, and gar. All of these fish breeds can be found in the waters of the Mississippi River, so there’s something for everyone when it comes to fishing in the region.
Commercial Fishing in the Mississippi
Commercial fishing in the Mississippi River is big business. The catfish industry alone generates over $3 million in revenue each year, with the majority of that money coming from the sale of farm-raised catfish. In addition, fishing for other popular species such as bass, carp, and white crappie all brings in money for Mississippi’s economy. The region has been a popular spot for fishermen for centuries, and the numbers show that it continues to be so.
Conservation of Fish Populations
Efforts to protect and conserve the fish species of the Mississippi River are ongoing. The State of Mississippi has enacted laws and regulations that are designed to protect the fish populations in the region. It is important for the state and its citizens to protect the river and its fisheries, as they are an important source of food, recreation, and economic activity.
Effect of Pollution on Fish Populations
Unfortunately, the pollution of the Mississippi River is also having a major effect on the fish populations. From agricultural runoff to industrial pollution, toxins which affect the fish are entering the river at alarming rates. This is causing a noticeable change in the health and population sizes of many fish species.
Population Management
To offset these negative effects, Mississippi has implemented a number of regulations and policies that are designed to protect the fish populations of the region. Restrictions on harvest sizes, bag limits, and minimum size guidelines are all being used to make sure that the fish populations remain healthy and abundant.
Recreational Fishing Opportunities
Recreational fishing on the Mississippi River is another way to help ensure that fish populations remain healthy. There are many different types of fishing available on the Mississippi River, from trolling for trophy-sized catfish to dock fishing for small panfish. The region is home to both the hardfighting largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as varieties of sunfish, crappie, and catfish.
