August marks a special time of year at Heartland Catfish Company: National Catfish Month. It is a time to celebrate the legacy, sustainability and flavor of U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish, while also recognizing the farmers, processors and community that make catfish a treasured meal at tables across the country. We are proud to provide Americans across the country with premium catfish products raised, harvested and processed with care. Join Heartland Catfish in honoring U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish all month long.

Deep Roots: The History Behind National Catfish Month

Catfish farming began in the 1960s, taking root in the South due to its warm climate and abundant water resources. In 1988, Congress officially designated August as National Catfish Month to recognize the economic and agricultural significance of the industry. The celebration stems from an earlier proclamation by President Ronald Reagan, who declared June 25 as National Catfish Day. Not long after, Heartland Catfish Company was founded in 1996 by William Tackett, his son Jim Tackett and son-in-law Joe Walker. Heartland Catfish Company continues the legacy of the industry that began all those decades ago as one of the largest vertically integrated U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish producers in the country.

Why National Catfish Month Matters to Heartland Catfish

The impact U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish has on the American economy and food systems is significant. As one of the most popular fish in America, catfish ranks fifth among consumer seafood choices and is one of America’s largest aquaculture products. The U.S. catfish industry also fuels the local economy by creating jobs at farms, feed mills, processing plants and harvest crews. It serves as a sustainable food source in rural areas and supports revenue and employment in regions that have historically faced economic challenges. At Heartland Catfish, we are proud to support an industry that helps strengthen our local communities and feeds families nationwide.

Celebrate National Catfish Month

There are plenty of ways to celebrate National Catfish Month. If you enjoy cooking at home, try one of the many easy, flavorful recipes from the Heartland Catfish recipe collection. Heartland Catfish is also celebrating alongside The Catfish Institute, which honors a standout producer each year as Catfish Farmer of the Year.

We are proud to celebrate our outstanding U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish products, the people who help make them possible, and the entire industry during National Catfish Month. Make sure to share your celebrations with us on social media—tag us on Instagram and Facebook!