Louisiana Catfish Guide for Fishing and Eating

What are Louisiana "cats"?

Ask a north Louisiana outdoorsman about cats, and you won't hear anything about cute and cuddly. "Cats" in much of the Louisiana outdoors means catfish. Many fishermen love nothing better than dropping a line into the water and pulling up a big healthy cat. And a great many diners around the state consider a plate of fried catfish just about the finest item anyone could put on a table.

Catfishing in Louisiana

There are many species of catfish in Louisiana which can be caught at almost any time of the year. Anglers will happily find flathead, blue and channel cats, along with a big range of sizes, from less than a pound to 100 pounds-plus. Louisiana cats are found in ponds, streams, lakes, rivers and backwaters. Drop a line in a river or lake from north to south Louisiana, like Toledo Bend State Park and Lake Cataouatche, and you'll likely find great rewards. Find more places to catch catfish or learn more about fishing in Louisiana and fishing licenses through our Fishing Resources page.

The Louisiana Catfish Festival

Celebrate this delicious dish Louisiana style — with a festival! The South Franklin Catfish Festival Louisiana Catfish Festival in Wisner, started in 2021 and has continued to grow each year. See what new attractions and activities will be added to this year's festival.

Where to Sample a Louisiana Catfish Menu

For a deep dive into north Louisiana's catfish culture any time of year, travelers can choose from an array of dedicated catfish houses — from Scott's Catfish & Seafood in West Monroe and Scott's Catfish in Ruston. They are known for their big portions, fair prices and a family atmosphere.

Like many other catfish specialists, Johnny's Catfish & Seafood in Shreveport serves whole catfish filets and thin catfish strips. "People who like whole fish best will say it's sweeter, has more meat and catfish flavor, while the (strips) are crisper, and you're getting more of the cornmeal and that seasoning," says manager Rory Covington.

The local clientele like the fish rolled in seasoned cornmeal, and most restaurants fry it in peanut oil. The best batches come out greaseless, crisp and piping hot, accompanied by the near-universal sides of coleslaw and fries.

Travelers might find their favorite catfish house nestled in a neighborhood or along the rural routes on a north Louisiana road trip. For instance, catfish destination Port au Prince is perched right on the water's edge at Lake Claiborne State Park outside of Homer.

Try making frying up your own fish at home with our delicious Louisiana fried catfish recipe.

Ian McNulty is a New Orleans, Louisiana-based reporter, columnist and author. He is a staff writer at the New Orleans Advocate and writes frequently about Louisiana culture.