The Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) is one of the most fished catfish species in North America. It has a slender, scaleless body with a deeply forked tail and can grow over 2 feet... The Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) is one of the most fished catfish species in North America. It has a slender, scaleless body with a deeply forked tail and can grow over 2 feet in length. These catfish are adaptable, living in various freshwater environments but preferring clear, warm waters with sandy or muddy bottoms. They feed primarily on insects, mollusks, and other small fish. Channel Catfish are popular in aquaculture and sport fishing due to their size and flavor.Click here to read more about Channel Catfish.