Cook the Chesapeake: Blue Catfish Three Ways

Join us in the kitchen as we celebrate flavor and sustainability with one of the Chesapeake Bay’s most surprising catches: Blue Catfish. Though invasive to our waters, these catfish thrive on a diet of crabs and crustaceans — giving them a sweeter, cleaner taste than their farm-raised cousins. By cooking them, you’re not just learning new recipes — you’re helping restore balance to our waterways.

This meal is inspired by the dedication of local sport and commercial fishermen who work the Bay, as well as the efforts of conservation organizations fighting to protect its fragile ecosystem. Together, we’ll honor their work by turning this ecological challenge into a culinary opportunity.

In this hands-on class, we’ll transform Blue Catfish into three crowd-pleasing dishes:

• Crispy Fish & Chips – golden-fried perfection with a Chesapeake twist.
• Fresh Tacos – bright, zesty, and perfect for sharing.
• Blackened Catfish – bold seasoning seared to bring out the fish’s natural sweetness.

Whether you’re a home cook looking to try something new, a seafood lover searching for the next best bite, or simply curious about sustainable eating, this class offers delicious recipes, practical techniques, and a deeper connection to the Bay.

Come hungry, leave inspired — and discover why Blue Catfish is one of the tastiest ways to protect our local waters.