*  Characteristics:  Channel catfish, the most common to the Tennesse river can reach a maximum size of nearly 60 pounds. Channel cats look much like other catfish in that they have 'skin' instead of scales and whiskers around the mouth. Channel Catfish occur throughout the Mississippi River Valley, and down to the Mexico border. Channel Catfish are the most commonly raised aquaculture species in the U.S.

*  Habitat:  Basically bottom dwellers. Often active at night.

*  Key Notes and Tips:

      Channel Catfish are only rarely caught on artificials.

      Channel Catfish are sometimes caught by hand.

      Trot lines and hoop nets are used by commercial fisherman to harvest
      their catch.