Catfish, with their whisker-like barbels, are among the most recognizable fish in America. National Catfish Day, on June 25, celebrates catfish as both a food and a fish. Fried catfish is a Southern classic, served with hush puppies and coleslaw, and catfish farming is an important industry in states like Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas.
History of National Catfish Day
Catfish have been eaten in North America for centuries, especially in the South, where they live in rivers, lakes and ponds. Native Americans and later settlers caught wild catfish.
In the 1960s and 1970s, farmers in the Mississippi Delta began raising catfish in ponds, creating a major new industry. Farm-raised catfish provided jobs and became a popular, affordable food. Belzoni, Mississippi, calls itself the 'Catfish Capital of the World'.
In 1987, President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation designating June 25 as National Catfish Day to recognize the value of farm-raised catfish. Catfish festivals are held in many Southern towns.
Why National Catfish Day Matters
Catfish farming supports jobs and communities, especially in the rural South.
Catfish is a mild, versatile fish that can be fried, grilled or blackened.
Catfish also play important roles in freshwater ecosystems. Learning about them is a fun way to explore rivers and lakes, and fishing for catfish is a popular pastime.
Catfish are also fascinating animals. There are thousands of catfish species worldwide, ranging from tiny fish in aquariums to giants weighing hundreds of pounds. Some species can taste with their entire bodies, thanks to taste buds on their skin. Learning about them makes a fun science lesson for students and anglers alike.
How to Celebrate National Catfish Day
- Fry catfish: coat in cornmeal and fry until golden.
- Try blackened catfish: season with Cajun spices and sear.
- Visit a festival: attend a catfish festival.
- Go fishing: try catching catfish in a local lake.
- Make a Southern plate: serve with hush puppies and coleslaw.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a Southern-style lunch with catfish, hush puppies and slaw can be a fun treat; offer alternatives for those who avoid fish. In classrooms, students can learn about catfish anatomy, freshwater ecosystems or the history of aquaculture in the South. At home, families can cook catfish together, go fishing at a local pond, or visit an aquarium to see different catfish species. Cook fish to 145°F.
Fun Facts About National Catfish Day
- President Reagan proclaimed National Catfish Day in 1987.
- Belzoni, Mississippi, is called the 'Catfish Capital of the World'.
- Catfish have whisker-like barbels used to find food.
National Catfish Day FAQs
When is National Catfish Day?
National Catfish Day is June 25.
Who created National Catfish Day?
President Ronald Reagan proclaimed it in 1987.
Where is catfish farmed?
Mainly in Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas.
Why do catfish have whiskers?
Their barbels help them sense food.