Feeding fingerlings Techniques for feeding fingerlings stocked at relatively high densities are similar to those used for feeding fry in ponds. Initially feed the fish a crumbled feed and, as they increase in size, increase feed particle size accordingly. In practice, some producers feed fingerlings the same feed as they feed fish for grow-out, assuming that, as the larger pellets soften and begin to break up in the water, the fingerlings are able to consume the feed. Although there is no experimental evidence, it is likely that fingerlings fed in that manner are more variable in size as compared to fish fed different sizes of feed as they grow. Sinking feeds can be used, but management is more difficult when sinking pellets are used.
Most catfish producers prefer a floating feed.
Feed the fish in the morning, after dissolved oxygen levels have started to rise, and no later than midafternoon, to allow for digestion during periods of relatively high dissolved oxygen. Fish do not consume and assimilate feed efficiently when the oxygen levels are low. On large commercial catfish farms, the feed is scattered over a wide area of the pond by mechanical feeders mounted on or pulled by vehicles. It is best to feed on all sides of the pond to increase opportunity for all fish to feed. However, in practice, the feed is usually blown into the pond from the side from which the prevailing wind is blowing.