What do channel cat fish eat?

Channel catfish are omnivores and opportunistic feeders, meaning they will consume a wide variety of food sources depending on what is available in their environment. Their diet typically includes:

Aquatic Insects: Channel catfish feed heavily on aquatic insects such as mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and midges.

Small Fish: They are also known to prey on smaller fish species such as minnows, shad, and darters.

Crayfish: Crayfish are a common food source for channel catfish, especially in rocky or vegetated areas.

Mollusks: Channel catfish may also feed on mollusks such as clams and mussels, using their strong jaws to break open the shells.

Scavenging: Channel catfish are also scavengers and will feed on dead or dying fish and other organic matter.

Commercial Fish Food: In aquaculture settings, channel catfish may be fed commercial fish food pellets specifically formulated to meet their nutritional needs.

The specific composition of their diet can vary based on the habitat, season, and availability of different food sources. Channel catfish are generally active feeders during warmer months, with reduced feeding during colder seasons. They typically feed at various depths and use their barbels to locate prey on the bottom of water bodies.