The Channel catfish option is ideal for any size pond, including small ponds (less than one acre) and heavily fished ponds. Catfish require very little management, eat a wide variety of foods, are easy to catch and good to eat.. They can also tolerate a wide range of water quality and will not spawn in most ponds unless nesting sites such as stumps, barrels, and tires are added. Spawning is not encouraged to prevent overcrowding.

     Channel catfish can be stocked at any time of the year, grow 3/4 to 1 pound per year and can reach large sizes if cared for properly (see channel catfish management). Fathead minnows should be stocked with channel catfish as forage. Channel catfish will grow faster and larger if fed daily with a feed that has at least 28-32% protein and 6-8% fat. Ponds without aeration should be fed no more than 10-15 pounds of feed per acre per day. Aerated ponds can be fed 20 to 30 pounds per acre per day.  Redear sunfish may also be stocked with channel catfish to control grubs. Grass carp should also be stocked in fall or spring to control aquatic vegetation before it becomes a big problem.