Catfish has a distinct mild flavor with a firmer flesh than most whitefish. This fish is most popularly deep fried but is versatile and can be prepared multiple different ways. U.S. farm-raised catfish are grown in environmentally controlled, clay-based ponds filled with fresh water pumped from underground wells. Mature breeding catfish remain in production an average of 4 to 6 years. U.S. production of catfish by aquaculture is concentrated in Southeastern states, with Mississippi producing over 50% of U.S. catfish. Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi together produce 94% of all U.S. farm-raised catfish.