Changes In Aquaculture Have Consumers Landing Higher-value Fish

Consumer trends continue to drive an industry change from traditional aquaculture species like catfish to higher-value species such as redfish and hybrid striped bass, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension aquaculture and fisheries specialist Dr. Todd Sink.

Sink said catfish, a longtime staple for Texas fish production, has experienced a recent decline in pricing and popularity, causing producers to look at other options.

Catfish prices are currently at around 93 cents/lb., compared to the high of $1.35/lb. two years ago. As a result, U.S. consumers are buying less catfish as household wealth and expendable income increase and because other options in the market are perceived as higher quality, Sink said. Those include salmon, redfish and hybrid striped bass, which is a cross between white and striped bass, he said.

Sink said poor prices and consumer trends have some catfish producers switching at least a portion of production to other species like redfish and hybrid striped bass, which bring higher prices — $3.00-3.30/lb. and $3.30-3.60/lb., respectively — and are experiencing increased demand.