Catfish Capitol Visitor Center - Belzoni, Mississippi

 Print This Post

The Catfish Capitol Visitor’s Center in Belzoni, Mississippi. Belzoni is located in Humphrey County, Mississippi, and is commonly called the “Catfish Capital” of the state.  Catfish farming is an important commodity for Mississippi’s economy, as more than 117 catfish farms are located there.  Humphrey County contains 35,000 acres of ponds averaging 6,000 catfish per acre.

J.B. Williamson dug the first man-made pond in 1965, which eventually brought the local industry to today’s levels.  Visitors to Belzoni may tour the Catfish Capitol Visitor’s Center located downtown to learn about local industry and history.  The county boasts the most catfish farms per capita than any other Mississippi boundary.

The center boasts the largest collection of outdoor sculpture in the entire state.  Specimens include models made of spawning cans, hatchery tanks and seining nets.  Tourists are easily exposed to the history and local culture of Belzoni through multiple indoor exhibits.

Located in the recently renovated IB&B Depot, the Catfish Capitol Visitor’s Center holds information about the local “Catfish on Parade”.  This city-wide art exhibit features brightly painted catfish sculptures set in the sidewalk in front of multiple local businesses. 

Some of the models include the “Blues Cat” as a tribute to local music roots, “Florence Nightingale” sponsored by the local hospital, “D. Fin Der” which sits in front of a law firm, and “Alicat” in front of Alison’s Restaurant.  There are 33 total catfish, made of fiberglass, and they stand at five feet tall.

The World Catfish Fest is also held in Belzoni on an annual basis.  Food, contests and fun provide a carnival-like attraction for locals and visitors alike.  Scheduled activities include a catfish eating contest and a 5k run/walk.  First held in 1976 with only 3,000 attendants, this festival has been voted as one of the Top 100 Events in North America and Top 20 Events in the Southeast.

Whether you love eating or learning about catfish, or simply enjoy learning about local historical events, the Catfish Capitol Visitor’s Center is the perfect place to start.  The staff there can let you know about current and upcoming events, locations of local farms and the best restaurants to take part in the local fare of choice. 

Children and adults are able to find plenty of information and learning opportunities, and art enthusiasts enjoy touring the outdoor sculpture collections.  The Catfish Capitol Visitor’s Center is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

111 Magnolia St.
Belzoni, MS 39038
662-247-4838