Habitat

Channel catfish appear little affected by oxygen depletion, and can comfortably survive in waters most other fish would find intolerable. In general, they are characteristic of the temperate to sub-tropical lakes and rivers of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Ontario populations seem to be concentrated in the southern portions of the province and, with the exception of Lake Superior, all Great Lakes and their tributaries boast adequate numbers.

The channel cat inhabits cooler and swifter water than most catfishes. It's biokinetics (sleek, shark-like profile) make it suitable for life and foraging in swift water. In fact you'll often find many cats in fast waters, downstream from power dams. (Figure 4-3 .)

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