Clip the Spines on a Catfish?

[AmirsDad]

New at this... My 9 yr old and I have put together a little pond in the back yard. We caught a few small catfish and they are doing fine so far. He now tells me that we are supposed to clip the spines on the catfish using nail clippers. I can't see how that's a good idea.
Thoughts?

 

[kno4te]

No reason to do it. Wouldn’t suggest cutting the spines.

 

[Fishman Dave]

Any idea what cats you have? Never heard of clipping spines generally.

 

[AmirsDad]

If I had to guess... Channel Cats from a pond in the Chicago burbs.

 

[twentyleagues]

I'd advise against that. Besides the discomfort for the fish the chance for infection is high. Permanently disfiguring animals for our safety or astetics is barbaric. Just be aware of the possibility for injury to one's self and be careful if/when interacting.

 

[thebiggerthebetter]

You mean the tips or the entire spine? What is the reasoning? To protect the pond because it is rubber liner lined?

 

[twentyleagues]

You mean the tips or the entire spine? What is the reasoning? To protect the pond because it is rubber liner lined?

I never even thought of that. But aren't these kept in rubber lined ponds all the time?

 

[thebiggerthebetter]

I never even thought of that. But aren't these kept in rubber lined ponds all the time?

Depends on the pond. Mine was in the basement, above ground. Most of these are outdoors, inground. A poke or a dozen carry a vastly different consequence.

In any case, tips will grow back. Would have to cut close to body, which is absolutely barbaric and sadistic in my book too, I concur with you. Unless raising catfish like that is meant for one's sustenance, food or hunger, life or death situation.

 

[qldmick]

I had this big guy destroy my net with his spines.

No way would I clip his fins, but I would use a fishing net to catch it rather than an aquarium net.

 

[thebiggerthebetter]

If I had to guess... Channel Cats from a pond in the Chicago burbs.

I notice you stopped posting and not answering my questions. We are not bashing you or your son, don't take it wrong. You asked a question. We answer. Nothing personal, strictly business

There may or may not be other opinions out there, including this forum. In any case, all one can do is offer their thoughts and opinions. You decide for yourself what to do and how to live, needless to say.