For the first time in more than 100 years, the predominant aquatic alpha predator of North American rivers is swimming in waters off Pittsburgh. In an ambitious conservation-recreation program expected to continue for another 20 years, Pennsylvania is attempting to reintroduce the blue catfish to its historic range through most of the Ohio River system.
Earlier this month, the state Fish and Boat Commission stocked 13,000 fingerling blue catfish in the Ohio River.
The 4- to 4 1/2 -inch juveniles were planted in waters off the Point in Pittsburgh and 13 miles downriver in Kilbuck. Another stocking is scheduled for Thursday in Ohio River waters off Leetsdale and Monaca.
