Craving perfectly fried catfish that crackles at first bite and stays tender to the last? This guide takes you on a delicious road trip through the South, spotlighting the single best catfish stop in each state.
From historic fish houses to modern Southern kitchens, every pick earns its place with crisp cornmeal crusts, soulful sides, and local pride. Grab your appetite and a map, because your next plate might be one exit away.
Delaware – Matt’s Fish Camp Lewes
Set right by Delaware’s breezy coast, Matt’s Fish Camp Lewes nails that Southern crunch you crave from great catfish. The batter is light, the cornmeal seasoning balanced, and the fish stays juicy without a hint of grease.
You get the beach feel alongside classic comfort, which makes the plate taste even better.
Expect hushpuppies that are crisp outside and tender inside, with just enough onion and sweetness. Coleslaw is creamy but bright, cutting through the fried goodness, while lemon wedges and tartar sauce bring zing.
It is the kind of meal that invites you to linger and order another round.
The vibe is relaxed, with cheerful staff who will point you to the day’s freshest catch. When catfish rotates onto the menu, locals show up fast because they know.
Portions satisfy without weighing you down, perfect after a boardwalk stroll.
Pair it with a local beer or a sweet tea and you will understand why this Delaware spot gets Southern praise. The setting is coastal, but the spirit is pure fish camp.
Come hungry, bring friends, and leave with sandy shoes and happy memories. That crunch will stick with you.
Maryland – Juicy Seafood
Juicy Seafood does more than lively boils, and when catfish appears, it is a standout. The fillets arrive golden and aromatic, with a peppery kick that plays well with a squeeze of lemon.
You will notice how the crust shatters, revealing moist, flaky fish that tastes clean and satisfying.
Order it with coleslaw or corn on the cob for that classic Southern spread. The kitchen seasons confidently but not aggressively, so the fish remains the star.
Extra tartar or a dash of hot sauce takes every bite somewhere new without overpowering.
This spot is about gathering, cracking shells, and swapping stories over good seafood. Catfish fans fit right in, especially when you want fried comfort alongside Maryland’s seafood culture.
Service runs quick, and the vibe stays easygoing even on busy nights.
If you like options, build a plate with fries, hushpuppies, or Cajun potatoes. When catfish is seasonal, ask your server for timing and specials.
The value is strong, portions generous, and the flavors deliver. You will leave promising to come back, especially once that catfish craving returns.
Virginia – Sea’s Bounty Seafood & Chicken – Ashland, VA
Sea’s Bounty in Ashland keeps it simple and right, which is all catfish really needs. The batter clings snugly, seasoning whispers garlic and paprika, and the fish tastes fresh and mild.
You will appreciate how the crust stays crisp from first to last bite.
Fries, hushpuppies, and collard greens make an easy trio that hits every note. Ask for hot sauce and a lemon wedge if you like a bright finish.
The staff will make sure you feel like a regular, even on your first visit.
The dining room has that small town warmth where folks chat across tables. You order, you dig in, and suddenly the plate is empty.
It is everyday good, the kind of reliable catfish you could eat weekly.
Prices are fair, portions kind, and takeout travels well for a porch supper. If you are road tripping I 95, it is a quick detour worth planning.
Pair your catfish with sweet tea and save room for pie. You will be back before long, hungry for that crunch.
West Virginia – Fish Frenzy Seafood – Beckley, WV
Fish Frenzy Seafood brings Southern fried catfish to Beckley with generous plates and friendly energy. The cornmeal breading lands that golden brown sweet spot, giving a clean crunch without extra oil.
Each fillet flakes easily, soaking up tartar or hot sauce like a sponge.
Round out the plate with mac and cheese or baked beans for a hearty balance. Coleslaw brightens things, and hushpuppies deliver a gentle onion kick.
You get that weekend fish fry feeling any night of the week.
Service is welcoming, prices make sense, and families settle in quickly. The kitchen works fast but careful, so textures hold and flavors stay true.
You feel looked after, which makes the meal taste even better.
If you are passing through on I 64, plan your stop here. The portions travel well for hotel bites or tailgate fuel.
Bring an appetite and leave room for dessert, because the slice of cake pairs perfectly. One visit and this Beckley spot sticks on your personal map.
Georgia – Busy Bee Café – Atlanta, GA
Busy Bee Café is Atlanta soul food royalty, and the fried catfish fits that crown. The crust is delicate yet assertive, giving crunch while honoring the fish.
You taste seasoned tradition in every bite, lifted by lemon and a splash of hot sauce.
Pick classic sides like collard greens, candied yams, or mac and cheese. The plate comes together with balance and heart, not just heft.
You will leave full but feeling light on regret, which says a lot for fried goodness.
The dining room hums with history, photos, and steady foot traffic. Service is warm and efficient, even during rush hours.
There is pride here, and it lands squarely on your plate.
Weekends get busy, so plan for a wait that is worth it. Bring friends, share bites, and compare favorite sides.
When a craving hits, this is where you point the car. Catfish like this reminds you why soul food matters.
Florida – The Catfish Kitchen – Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville’s Catfish Kitchen serves a crisp, golden fillet that tastes like weekend comfort. The cornmeal batter delivers crunch without heaviness, leaving the fish moist and clean.
You can keep it classic or kick it up with hot sauce and lemon.
Waffle fries, hushpuppies, and slaw make the meal feel complete. Portions run generous, so bring a friend or plan leftovers.
The kitchen keeps tickets moving, but quality stays solid plate after plate.
Inside, the energy is easygoing Florida casual, with beach colors and friendly smiles. Families settle in, lunch crowds rotate fast, and regulars know staff by name.
It is the kind of place that becomes your default catfish stop.
Prices are sensible, and the value feels strong for what you get. If you are road tripping up I 95, this is a convenient turnoff.
Grab sweet tea, claim your basket, and let that first bite crunch. You will leave happy and sunlit.
Kentucky – North of Bourbon – Louisville, KY
North of Bourbon gives catfish a polished Kentucky treatment without losing soul. The fillet emerges perfectly fried, resting over field peas or seasonal vegetables.
You will taste thoughtful seasoning and technique that keeps the fish center stage.
Expect bright pickles or chow chow for contrast, plus sauces that add lift, not weight. Pair it with a bourbon cocktail for a regional match that sings.
The kitchen cooks with intention, honoring Southern tradition with modern edges.
The room feels handsome and warm, made for conversation and lingering. Service is attentive and knowledgeable, guiding you to sides and spirits you will love.
It is special without feeling stiff, which makes the meal inviting.
Reservations help on busy nights, but the bar is welcoming for solo bites. The value is in the execution and consistency across visits.
If catfish is your test dish, this place passes with flair. You will remember the balance of crunch and elegance.
Tennessee – Carmack’s Fish Barn – Cottage Grove, TN
Carmack’s Fish Barn is a pilgrimage for catfish lovers, pure and simple. The fillets arrive in big platters, hot and crisp with a seasoned cornmeal coat.
You will get white bread, pickles, and slaw that make each bite pop.
Hushpuppies come plentiful, and fries stack high like a friendly dare. Portions are barn sized, so bring a crew or an appetite.
The fish tastes clean and sweet, never muddy, which keeps bites coming.
Inside, it is all community tables, neon glow, and weekend energy. Service is quick and kind, refilling drinks and checking in often.
The place feels like a classic fish fry that never ended.
Come early on peak nights or enjoy the wait with good company. Prices are fair for the mountain of food you receive.
This is Tennessee catfish as many remember it, proudly served. One visit becomes tradition before you realize.
Alabama – Catfish Heaven – Tuscaloosa, AL
Catfish Heaven earns its name with fillets that are crisp outside and tender inside. The seasoning leans savory with a whisper of heat, perfect for lemon and hot sauce.
You will find the fish flaky and clean, cooked with care every time.
Popular sides include turnip greens, baked potatoes, and buttery cornbread. Portions are generous but balanced, so you can finish without feeling heavy.
The staff move with practiced rhythm and make you feel welcome fast.
The room is simple and friendly, built for regulars who know what they like. Orders land hot, and the crunch stays true till the last bite.
It is catfish first, all the way through.
Prices stay kind to your wallet, which makes repeat visits easy. Add sweet tea and a slice of cake if you want the full experience.
This is Tuscaloosa comfort that sticks with you. You will think about that crust for days.
Mississippi – Moss Creek Fish House – Pearl, MS
Moss Creek Fish House sits on the U.S. Catfish Trail for good reason.
The fillets come deep fried to a perfect golden hue, with a clean, savory crust. You get that first bite crackle followed by moist, mild fish that tastes fresh.
Hushpuppies, turnip greens, and fries round out a proud Mississippi plate. The slaw is cool and creamy, cutting richness without stealing the show.
Sauces stay supportive, not dominant, so the fish keeps its spotlight.
Families fill booths, and servers move with friendly confidence. Plates arrive hot and plentiful, ideal for sharing or hoarding, your call.
The space feels like a community stop, not just a meal.
Prices are fair, consistency is impressive, and the catfish is the draw every time. If you are touring the Catfish Trail, mark this as a must.
Save room for pie or banana pudding to end on a sweet note. You will leave satisfied and plotting a return.
Louisiana – Peche Seafood Grill – New Orleans, LA
Peche Seafood Grill treats catfish with a chef’s precision and Louisiana soul. When it appears, expect careful frying or a grilled preparation with smoky depth.
The fish stays pristine, lifted by remoulade, charred lemon, and bright herbs.
Seasonal sides shift, but you might see field peas, crisp salads, or roasted vegetables. Everything on the plate feels intentional and beautifully balanced.
You taste New Orleans creativity without losing the comfort of catfish.
The room blends rustic wood and modern polish, buzzing with conversation. Service is polished yet warm, happy to guide you through specials.
Cocktails and wines pair smartly, raising the experience without overshadowing the fish.
Reservations help during peak hours, and the bar makes a great perch. Prices reflect the craft, and the consistency justifies it.
When you want catfish elevated yet familiar, this is your answer. You will remember every bright, satisfying bite.
Oklahoma – Clark’s Crew BBQ & Catfish – Oklahoma City, OK
Clark’s Crew blends barbecue swagger with excellent catfish, and it works. The fillets fry up crisp, seasoned with a subtle spice that loves lemon.
You will get that satisfying crunch while the fish stays mild and moist.
Side choices lean BBQ, so think baked beans, potato salad, or cheesy corn. The combo makes sense here, smoky richness meeting clean seafood comfort.
Add hot sauce or house sauces to explore different finishes.
The dining room feels lively, with smoke in the air and sports on screens. Staff keep things moving and check in often.
It is a casual scene made for big appetites and easy conversation.
Prices are reasonable for the portions, and takeout holds up well. Locals recommend it for reliable catfish in a city full of meat temptations.
Bring friends, share plates, and compare favorites. You will leave full and happy, no question.
Arkansas – Lassis Inn – Little Rock, AR
Lassis Inn is a Little Rock landmark, and the catfish tells the story. The fry is assertive and crisp, wrapping sweet, clean fish with old school confidence.
You taste history and community in every hot, pepper kissed bite.
Order fillets or steaks, plus white bread, pickles, and hot sauce. The simplicity is the point, letting the catfish speak.
Sides are minimal, but the flavor runs deep and satisfying.
The room is cozy and unpretentious, with a jukebox spirit and loyal crowd. Service is straightforward and kind, moving plates fast on busy nights.
It is the kind of place where traditions hold and time feels generous.
Prices are fair, parking is simple, and cravings get answered decisively. If you measure a city by its fish house, this one ranks high.
Bring cash or check payment details ahead. You will leave with a grin and a story.
Texas – Gatlin’s Fins & Feathers – Houston, TX
Gatlin’s Fins & Feathers takes Houston’s love of bold flavor and gives catfish a perfect stage. The crust is shatter crisp, the fish flaky, and the seasoning confident.
You will find jalapeno hushpuppies and zesty sauces that nudge each bite forward.
Balance matters, so slaw or greens bring freshness alongside that crunchy richness. The kitchen cooks with precision, sending plates that look as good as they taste.
Add a local beer or tea to keep things easygoing.
The room buzzes with energy, ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend groups. Service is upbeat and helpful, ready with recommendations and refills.
It is comfort food elevated just enough to feel special.
Prices reflect quality, and portions satisfy without excess. If you love catfish, this will become a regular fix.
Save space for dessert, because the sweet finish seals the deal. You will leave plotting your next visit soon.
North Carolina – Jack’s Seafood & Soul Food – Raleigh, NC
Jack’s Seafood & Soul Food is a beloved local restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina, known for its hearty combination of classic seafood and comforting soul food. With a menu full of Southern favorites like fried fish, shrimp, smothered pork chops, and mac and cheese, the eatery captures the essence of traditional home-style cooking.
The restaurant has two Raleigh locations, including the original on 1516 New Bern Ave, where breakfast and lunch are served in a casual, welcoming setting. Whether you’re stopping in for a hearty fish dinner or a comforting plate of BBQ chicken with sides, the menu is designed to satisfy a broad range of tastes.
Service at Jack’s is often described as friendly and personable, with staff who help create a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere. Reviews frequently mention that the team makes guests feel like part of the local community, enhancing the overall dining experience.
From the savory fried seafood to the slow-cooked sides, Jack’s delivers comforting, traditional flavors that keep guests returning. Its blend of seafood classics and soul food staples makes it a standout spot in Raleigh’s diverse restaurant scene.
South Carolina – Hyman’s Seafood – Charleston, SC
Hyman’s Seafood is one of Charleston’s most recognizable restaurants, drawing diners in with its deep roots and unmistakable Southern coastal character. Family-owned since 1890, the restaurant has become a fixture of the historic district, known for celebrating Lowcountry seafood traditions in a lively, old-school setting.
The menu is built around classic seafood preparations that highlight abundance and comfort rather than trendiness. Fried shrimp, flounder, crab cakes, oysters, and rich seafood platters dominate the offerings, often served with traditional sides like hushpuppies and slaw.
Portions are famously generous, reinforcing the idea that Hyman’s is a place where no one leaves hungry.
The atmosphere is casual, energetic, and unmistakably Charleston. Walls are covered with photos, signs, and memorabilia that reflect decades of history, giving the dining room a nostalgic, almost museum-like feel.
For many people, a meal at Hyman’s Seafood is more than just dinner — it’s part of the Charleston experience. The combination of history, hearty seafood, and old-fashioned Southern hospitality has made it a longtime favorite and a must-visit stop for those exploring the city.