Quincy and the Mighty Mississippi
Quincy, Illinois owes much of its history to the Mississippi River. Long before it became a manufacturing and agricultural hub, the river provided transportation, trade, and an abundant source of fish. Today, the river and the region's lakes and ponds support commercial fishing for catfish, buffalo, and carp, along with aquaculture operations, pond stocking businesses, and a thriving recreational fishing community. Anglers line the riverbanks and backwaters around Quincy, and seafood and fish products appear on menus throughout the tri-state area.
Fishery companies play a vital role in harvesting, processing, stocking, and protecting these aquatic resources. Here are the ten best fishery companies and organizations serving Quincy and the Upper Mississippi region.
The Top 10 Fishery Companies for the Quincy Region
1. Schafer Fisheries
Located along the Mississippi River in Thomson, Illinois, Schafer Fisheries is one of the most established commercial fish processors on the Upper Mississippi. It processes river fish such as catfish, buffalo, and invasive carp into fillets, smoked products, and fish-based ingredients, supporting commercial fishermen throughout the river system.
2. Two Rivers Fish Company
Two Rivers Fish Company processes invasive carp harvested from Midwestern rivers into food products, bait, and fertilizer. Its work helps reduce invasive carp populations that threaten native fish species in the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.
3. Fin Gourmet Foods
Fin Gourmet Foods specializes in transforming invasive carp into high-quality, boneless fish products for restaurants and retailers. Its innovative processing techniques demonstrate how a problem species can become a valuable, sustainable food source.
4. Choose Copi Partners
Copi is the name adopted for invasive carp as part of an Illinois-led initiative to promote it as a healthy, sustainable fish. A growing network of processors, chefs, and distributors participates in the program, introducing Midwestern diners to mild, protein-rich fish harvested from local rivers.
5. Osage Catfisheries
Based in Missouri, Osage Catfisheries is a long-established fish hatchery providing catfish, bass, bluegill, and other species for pond and lake stocking. Landowners around Quincy rely on hatcheries like Osage to create healthy, balanced fisheries in farm ponds and private lakes.
6. Keystone Hatcheries
Keystone Hatcheries, based in northern Illinois, supplies fingerling fish and pond management services. Its expertise in pond ecology helps property owners manage aquatic vegetation, water quality, and fish populations.
7. Logan Hollow Fish Farm
Logan Hollow Fish Farm in southern Illinois produces fish for pond stocking and offers pond management guidance. Its regional knowledge of Illinois waters makes it a useful resource for farmers and rural landowners in Adams County.
8. Heartland Catfish Company
Heartland Catfish Company processes farm-raised catfish, supplying fresh and frozen fillets to grocers and restaurants. Farm-raised catfish is a popular menu item in Quincy restaurants, prized for its mild flavor and versatility.
9. Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops, which includes the Cabela's brand, is a leading outdoor retailer supplying fishing gear, boats, and outdoor equipment. Its conservation partnerships and fishing education programs support healthy fisheries and the next generation of anglers throughout the Midwest.
10. Berkley
Berkley, part of Pure Fishing and rooted in Spirit Lake, Iowa, is one of the most recognized fishing tackle brands in the world. Its fishing lines, soft baits, and rods are popular with Quincy anglers pursuing catfish, crappie, and bass in the river and nearby lakes.
How to Choose a Fishery Partner
The right fishery partner depends on your goals. Restaurants and retailers should look for processors with strong food safety practices, traceability, and consistent supply. Landowners stocking ponds should choose hatcheries with healthy, disease-free fish and expert advice on species balance and pond management. Anglers and outdoor retailers should consider brands that support conservation and sustainable fishing practices.
Fishery Trends on the Upper Mississippi
Invasive carp management is one of the most significant trends in the region. Efforts to harvest and market carp as food help protect native species while creating economic opportunities for commercial fishermen. Aquaculture is expanding as demand for locally raised fish grows. Water quality initiatives, including agricultural conservation practices, aim to improve river health. Recreational fishing continues to thrive, supported by improved access sites, tournaments, and youth fishing programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fish from the Mississippi River safe to eat? Many river fish are safe to eat when harvested and prepared properly. Illinois publishes fish consumption guidance that anglers can follow for specific species and locations.
What fish are best for stocking a farm pond? A common combination includes largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Hatcheries can recommend the right ratios based on pond size and goals.
Why promote invasive carp as food? Harvesting carp for food reduces their population, protects native fish, and provides a healthy, high-protein fish that is mild in flavor.
Conclusion
The fisheries of the Mississippi River and surrounding waters are part of Quincy's heritage and future. From river fish processors and invasive carp innovators to hatcheries and tackle makers, these ten fishery companies help sustain healthy waters, delicious food, and outstanding recreation for residents of the Gem City and beyond.