'Operation River Raid' uncovers 300,000 pounds of illegal catfish harvested in Kentucky

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Kentucky game wardens have identified 25 people who could face hundreds of criminal charges following a months-long investigation into the illegal commercial harvest and sale of catfish across the state.

In a news release, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources said the 10-month investigation -- dubbed "Operation River Raid" -- uncovered the unlawful harvest of more than 300,000 pounds of catfish from public waterways and illegal pay lakes in multiple counties.

Officials said the case is expected to result in more than 700 criminal charges, including more than 100 felony counts, across six counties: Livingston, Marshall, Boyd, Bath, Lawrence and Powell. Charges remain pending as investigators continue reviewing evidence and prepare cases for presentation to local grand juries.

Authorities said the suspects failed to report the harvest of 300,000 pounds of catfish -- a violation of state law that officials said undermines conservation efforts and fishery management.

Officials said the illegal activity involved harvesting catfish from public waterways and putting them up for sale to unregulated or illegally operated pay lakes, which violates state law and harms fish populations and lawful businesses.

The investigation involved game wardens and fisheries staff from across Kentucky, along with cooperation from local courts.

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