Occurs in lakes, pools, backwaters, and runs of medium to large rivers. Prefers large, shallow lakes with high turbidity. Feeds at night, mainly on insects and fishes (prefers yellow perch and freshwater drum but will take any fish available) but feeds on crayfish, snails, frogs, mudpuppies, and small mammals when fish and insects are scarce. Although not widely farmed commercially for consumption, large numbers are hatched and raised for stocking lakes for game fishing. Utilized fresh or frozen; eaten pan-fried, broiled, microwaved and baked.