PERRY CO., AL (WSFA) -
Alabama is now the second largest catfish producing state in the country. But that doesn't mean the farmers are thriving. In fact, right now, it's just the opposite.
Everyday Paul Wheeler shoots 2,000 lbs. of fish feed into eight catfish ponds. And everyday he watches his money float away.
"Fish prices are way down," says Wheeler.
He says one pound of catfish goes for $0.55 less than it did just eight months ago.
It might not be so bad if other costs stayed the same, but they haven't.
"Feed prices are just astronomical," he adds.
With feed costs at more than $500 dollars per ton, Wheeler spends $6,000 dollars a day filling up his truck to feed his fish.
Wheeler believes an increase in imported fish means there is more supply nationally--meaning less demand for his local product.
He could lose more than $200,000 dollars this year because of it. He is reluctant to admit his farm's future is unclear.
"My gut tells me this is going to be bloody before it's over with," says Wheeler.
Agriculture officials say the lower prices forced many Mississippi and Arkansas catfish farmers out of the business--thus making Alabama one of the country's largest producers.
The good news for consumers is a fish dinner costs less. But it could put farmers like Wheeler out of business, too. He has one message for catfish eaters.
"Buy local. Always buy U.S. farm raised."
Alabama state law requires catfish labels to indicate their country of origin.
Copyright 2012 WSFA 12 News. All rights reserved.
Feeding time at Wheeler's catfish farm
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