Whether it’s pulled from a river, raised on a farm or served at a favorite local restaurant, catfish has long been part of Alabama life.
Now, state tourism officials are hoping to turn that tradition into a travel experience with the launch of the Alabama Catfish Trail, a new statewide initiative featuring more than 50 waterways, restaurants, markets, and other destinations connected to Alabama’s catfish culture.
The Alabama Tourism Department will officially launch the trail on June 25 during a public event at Cahaba Brewing Company in Birmingham. Tourism leaders, catfish farmers, anglers, restaurant operators and state officials are expected to participate in the celebration, which will include tastings, live music and family-friendly activities.
According to Alabama Tourism, the Alabama Catfish Trail is designed to showcase the people, places, and traditions that define catfish in Alabama. The trail includes more than 50 catfish-related destinations and experiences across the state, offering both recreational and culinary opportunities for residents and visitors.
Tourism officials say the initiative brings together voices from across Alabama’s catfish industry while showcasing the industry’s contributions to local communities and the state’s economy.
The launch event will feature remarks from Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell, Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Rick Pate, Alabama Fisheries Director Matthew Marshall, Alabama Farmers Federation representative Townsend Kyser, SouthernCats Guide Service captain Mike Mitchell, Pearce Catfish Farm’s Fran Pearce and Dalton Green of Ezell’s Fish Camp. Alyssa Hall, known as “Aly from Alabama,” will serve as emcee.
Guests will also have an opportunity to sample catfish dishes from participating restaurants and partners, including Ezell’s Fish Camp, Old Greenbrier Restaurant, The Ark and Catfish Navy. Additional activities include live music by the Earl “Guitar” Williams Trio, a live catfish display, an Alabama Catfish Wall of Fame, recognition of the ACES 4-H “Biggest Catch” Catfish Contest and activities for children.
The event is scheduled from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. June 25 at Cahaba Brewing Company in Birmingham.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
