A feasibility study for the sale of cultured catfish in Virginia and Washington, D.C.

Abstract

This thesis provides estimates of the market potential for farm-reared channel catfish in Virginia and Washington, D. C., the production costs and estimated returns of two small catfish farm enterprises, the present fisheries industry structure in Virginia, and the present channel catfish products and their feasibility for Virginia. The market potential for farm-reared channel catfish for Washington, D.C. and Virginia combined is estimated to be around 4,244,000 pounds (dressed weight) annually. The net returns generated by the two fish farm enterprises studied ranged from -$63.49/1.5 acre to $189.53/1.5 acre and the rates of return ranged from -8.9% to 27.4% at a $.30 per pound (live weight) price level. The present fish industry in Virginia is composed of a large number of wholesalers of various sizes who supply most of the retailers in the state. Most of the small wholesalers would not be receptive toward catfish products. However, some of the larger wholesalers may be willing to deal in catfish. In conclusion the food fish market seems to be the most feasible for absorbing farm-record channel catfish products and for providing an opportunity for an expanding farm-reared channel catfish industry in Virginia.