148 saved#1,468 of 6,224

National Catfish Day

Celebrate National Catfish Day by cooking up a delicious meal - try out our favorite recipes and enjoy the flavorful taste of fried fish!

Thursday

June 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEJune 25

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYMeat

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Catfish Day on June 25! This special day was created in 1987 to recognize the importance of catfish in the United States. Not only are they a popular food item, but they also play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and providing recreational opportunities for anglers. Whether you're enjoying some fried catfish with your family or out fishing with friends, make sure to take time this day to appreciate these unique creatures!

DEALS & OFFERS

Past offers

No active deals yet — here’s who’s celebrated before.

Nothing yet for 2026

Brands typically announce offers a week before the date. Check back closer to the day.

2 brands have run a deal

Giuseppe’s Market

Blue Water Seafood

See past offers

TIMELINE

National Catfish Day Timeline

Catfish Farming Begins

During the 1800s, catfish farming began to take shape in the southern states of the U.S, particularly in Mississippi and Arkansas.

Commercial Catfish Industry

The commercial catfish industry started to form when the first large-scale catfish farm opened in Mississippi.

US Farm-Raised Catfish Promoted

The US government started initiatives to promote US farm-raised catfish, recognizing its growing importance in the economy and health.

National Catfish Day Declared

President Ronald Reagan declared June 25th as National Catfish Day to recognize the importance and value of farm-raised catfish.

Catfish Genome Mapped

Scientists successfully mapped the catfish genome, marking a big stride in aquaculture and the understanding of this species.

Record Catfish Catch

A new record was set for the largest blue catfish ever caught, weighing in at 121.5 pounds, in Lake Texoma, Texas.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Catfish Day

Go fishing

Head to your local lake or pond and cast your line in search of the perfect catfish. Enjoy the solitude of the outdoors, take in the scenery, and with a bit of luck, you'll come home with dinner.

EAT

Eat at a Catfish Restaurant

Search online and find a restaurant that specializes in catfish. Many restaurants serve up some delicious deep fried catfish that you are sure to enjoy.

VISIT

Visit a Catfish Farm

Many farms offer tours of their facilities and allow visitors to feed their catfish. This is a great way to learn about the fish, as well as meet and interact with them.

Share Catfish Stories

Gather around with friends and family to tell stories about your catfishing adventures. Share tips on where to find the best places for catching catfish, as well as all of your funny experiences.

THROW

Throw a Catfish Party

Invite your friends over for a fish fry! Serve up some delicious catfish dishes, such as fried catfish, grilled catfish, or even tacos filled with crunchy catfish pieces.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Catfish Day

Catfish supports local economies

By purchasing locally-caught catfish from small farms and ranches, you are helping support your local economy by providing jobs and livelihoods for people in your region. Plus, you know you're getting top quality ingredients that have been raised responsibly and ethically by people who truly care about their animals' welfare!

Catfish is delicious and nutritious

Catfish has a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of spices and flavors. It's also a great source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking for a lean, nutritious meal!

Catfish is easy to cook

Whether you bake it, fry it, or poach it, catfish is quick and easy to make. Plus, you can dress it up with your favorite seasonings or sauces to give it some extra flavor. And because of its flaky texture, it cooks quickly so you don't have to wait too long to enjoy your meal!

Related holidays

SAT

Apr 2026

Food

National Crawfish Day

Get ready to "pinch" yourself because National Crawfish Day is here! Don't miss out on all the delicious crawfish boils and festivities happening today.

58Read

MON

Jan 2026