How to Raise Catfish in a Plastic Above Ground Swimming Pool

Catfish are a large group of ray-finned fish identified by their long, prominent whiskers. Dating back to the Cretaceous Period more than 65 million years ago, catfish are one of the most ancient fish species on the planet. Catfish are simple to raise and are most often grown for food, although they also make good aquarium pets. Raising catfish in a plastic above ground swimming pool is a simple and effective way to enjoy this interesting species of fish.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic pool
  • Clean soil
  • Natural decoration
  • Catfish food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set your pool in a semi-shaded area. Catfish thrive in dark, murky water, so placing the pool partially under brush or trees gives them the shade they like but enough sun to keep the water temperate. Make sure the pool is secure from domestic pets and wild animals, such as raccoons, to prevent losing your fish to predators.

    • 2

      Cover the bottom of the pool with a layer of clean soil and add a few pieces of natural decoration. Wild catfish habitats are full of debris such as logs, stumps and vegetation, and adding these items to your pond gives your fish plenty of cover and places to hide.

    • 3

      Fill the pool with clean, fresh water. Avoid filling it with lake or pond water, as this water can harbor algae that can sicken your catfish. Allow the water to sit for at least 24 hours to de-chlorinate before adding your fish.

    • 4

      Introduce the catfish to the pond. You can purchase young catfish, called fingerlings, from local fish farmers, or through your county's extension office. Let the fish rest for a day before feeding to allow them time to acclimate to their new environment.

    • 5

      Feed your fish twice a day. Feed them a commercially produced catfish food to make sure they get adequate nutrition, although you can supplement this with worms and small invertebrates such as young shrimp and crayfish. Add a little bit of food at a time until the fish lose interest in eating.

    • 6

      Change the pool water weekly to keep your catfish healthy. Drain one-third of the water in the pool, refilling it with clean water. Adding clean water helps to prevent algae overgrowth and helps your catfish to thrive.