Females lay large sticky clumps of heavy eggs in nests that are hidden under banks and logs. The male guards the eggs and the larvae that hatch until the fish are an inch long. Some channel catfish live to be 14 years of age. Catfish are bottom feeders that feed at night. Young channel catfish eat aquatic insects and algae.
Adults have a varied diet such as fish, insects, crayfish, fish eggs, and small clams.
Channel catfish are very good to eat. Fresh baits such as peeler or soft crab, shrimp, squid, and cut fish are best for catching channel catfish. Popular methods for fishing include bait casting, bottom fishing, and use of traps. Search the DNR site for information. Jump to the Maryland DNR Home Page .