What factors explain crappie's scarcity compared to farm-raised catfish retail presence?

A mix of historical precedent, consumer demand structuring, and inherent logistical challenges

The primary reason crappie is difficult to find next to staples like salmon or tilapia in standard supermarkets is a combination of factors rooted in history and logistics. Unlike catfish, which benefits from a fully developed, scaled commercial aquaculture system designed for consistent year-round supply, crappie has traditionally been sourced almost entirely through recreational fishing. This means the infrastructure required to process, distribute, and consistently supply crappie in the volumes major retailers demand has not been established or is intentionally sidelined in favor of promoting recreational harvest. The resulting supply chain commitment difference is stark; one is predictable, while the other faces seasonal wild catch variability and farming hurdles.