In some areas of the U.S., baitfish aquaculture is a viable industry. Several species of freshwater and brackish water forage fish take well to aquaculture operations, growing quickly into marketable sizes.
In the United States, Arkansas dominates the baitfish aquaculture industry. Baitfish production also occurs in the Southeast, New England, California, Upper Midwest, and Texas.
Golden shiners are most popular baitfish aquaculture species in the much of the USA. Other popular species include fathead minnows, white suckers, rainbow trout, goldfish, mummichogs and others. Some species are in demand as feeder fish for aquariums or specialized aquaculture.