Pond Boss Forums STOCKING A NEW POND Types of fish to choose Channel catfish vs blue channel catfish

Is there a difference between channel and blue channel catfish? I have seen one post on here warning against blue channel cats, but I can't find any more negative info on them. I ask because the supplier I am considering carries blue channel catfish.

The only thing that you can do to get a straight answer is call the fish supplier and ask them for the scientific name of the fish that you are thinking of buying from them. If they say it's a hybrid, then ask them what fish was the male and what fish was the female parent.

Catfish change their eating habits as they get older, and will target more fish as they age. Blues will get over 100 pounds in their natural habitat, but I have no idea what size they will get in ponds. Typically for the best eating, catfish are pulled out around 15"-24".

[quote=Tree Farmer]Is there a difference between channel and blue channel catfish? I have seen one post on here warning against blue channel cats, but I can't find any more negative info on them. I ask because the supplier I am considering carries blue channel catfish. [/quote

Ask Overton - I know he is out of your area, but he knows a LOT about BlueCat - I don't think he even hatches CC.

http://www.overtonfisheries.com/StockerFish/SportFish/BlueCatfish/tabid/72/Default.aspx

You should get Pond Boss magazine. Mar-Apr 2012 issue was mostly about the catfish family. A good article (pg 20) was included about blue catfish - Pros, Cons, & habits. Call the PBoss office for a copy or subscription. If you have a pond you should get PBoss Magazine. (903) 564-6144 or (800) 687-6075