Abstract Although a concerted effort in catfish nutrition research in the United States did not begin until the late 1950s/early 1960s, the genesis of both the catfish industry and catfish nutrition research is rooted in studies conducted early in the 20th century. Thus, a historical view delineating the progression of channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus , nutrition from 1900 to the present is given. Notable nutrition research programs, as well as significant events and accomplishments, will be examined.