There is some specialized interest in using the blue catfish as a unique large predator for special species combinations for smaller self contained water bodies. The standard PBoss acronym for blue catfish is BC.
Much more needs to be learned of how this species (BC) performs as a top line predator. Blues are known to forage higher up in the water column compared to other catfish species; sometimes near the surface in 60ft of water (see below later). Thus they could play a unique role as a large, big mouth, night time, open water predator. Are you adventuresome? Is the testing something you are willing to do in your small pond to help manage a special species fishery or control over abundant forage? Bring your experiences and results to your pond management forum. Be aware that the blue catfish can grow to some very large sizes. Growth is highly dependent on food availability. Natural reproduction in a pond could become, as with any fish species - a problem, so be prepared to drain and renovate the pond if the fishery becomes unbalanced. Once we know more about the value of a blue in a small pond, one blue per pond could be used similar to a tiger musky to help control an over abundant species. A large 28"+ BC might eat a good number of small LMB per year. Smaller more slender LMB would be easier to swallow whole and preferred forage compared to sunfish?

“While crossing the reservoir, he spotted a giant group of threadfin shad 55 feet down over 100 feet of water. Strangely, since most anglers think fish feed upward, blue cats were stationed above the shad at 40 feet.”
From https://www.in-fisherman.com/editorial/blue-catfish-fishing-methods/156175

Where to buy blue catfish.
http://www.osagecatfisheries.com/pond-stocking.asp
Note - In my opinion the Osage blue catfish are very reasonably priced due to the rareness of the species and strong lack of availability - definitely a good value from Osage Fishery. I assume that all small hatchery blues (BC) are pellet trained fish. 5"-7" = $1.50ea, 8 - 10 inch = $2.25each. Larger ones may occasionally be available, contact Osage for details.

Last edited by Bill Cody; 12/02/20 07:37 PM.

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