MS HB1564

Reclassifies all fish in the Catfish family (Ictaluridae) from "nongame gross fish" to "game fish" in Mississippi, including channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, yellow bullhead, black bullhead, and brown bullhead

Moves catfish into the same regulatory category as bass, crappie, walleye, and other sport fish that have stricter harvest protections

Removes catfish from the commercial fishing category, as commercial fishing licenses only permit taking "nongame gross fish" for sale

Brings forward existing commercial fishing license provisions ($30.00 fee) and slat basket regulations for potential future amendment related to this reclassification

Takes effect July 1, 2026