Top Highwaterman Catfish Fishing Countries

The Highwaterman catfish, though not a widely recognized scientific name, is likely a reference to large river-dwelling catfish species such as the Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas), the Wels catfish (Silurus glanis), and the Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), all of which are significant to commercial and recreational fisheries. The top countries for catfish fishing and aquaculture include the United States, Vietnam, China, Thailand, and several European nations like Hungary and Spain. In the U.S., the Channel catfish supports a robust aquaculture industry, especially in the southern states. Vietnam and Thailand are leading exporters of Pangasius catfish, particularly to global markets in Europe and North America. In Europe, the Wels catfish is both a prized sport fish and, in some regions, harvested for consumption. These countries have developed extensive aquaculture systems and river fisheries, making catfish one of the most important freshwater fish species globally in terms of both economic value and food security.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.