17 Montana Catfish Joints Where Locals Gather For Big Portions And Bold Flavor

Montana might be known for its mountains and wide-open plains, but hidden among the valleys and small towns are some incredible spots serving up catfish that rivals anything you’d find down South.

These restaurants have mastered the art of crispy, golden-fried fillets paired with hearty sides that keep folks coming back week after week.

Whether you’re craving Cajun spice or classic Southern comfort, Montana’s catfish scene delivers big plates and even bigger flavor that bring neighbors together around the table.

1. Tupelo Grille

Since opening its doors back in 1995, this Whitefish favorite has been serving up Southern comfort with a Montana twist that keeps tables full year-round.

Located at 17 Central Ave, Whitefish, MT 59937, Tupelo Grille earned its reputation with the signature Cornmeal Alabama Catfish, featuring perfectly seasoned fillets wrapped in a golden, crunchy crust.

The dining room glows with warm wood tones and soft lighting that makes every meal feel like a special occasion, even on a Tuesday night.

Regulars recommend arriving before the dinner rush to snag a cozy booth near the windows.

The kitchen takes pride in hand-breading each piece of catfish fresh to order, so expect a wait that’s absolutely worth it once that first bite hits your taste buds.

Pair your meal with their house-made tartar sauce and creamy coleslaw for the full experience locals have loved for nearly three decades.

2. River City Grill

Great Falls locals know exactly where to head when the craving for authentic Southern-fried catfish strikes, and this spot never disappoints with its generous portions.

River City Grill sits at 7931 MT-200, Missoula, MT 59802, serving up catfish fillets coated in a secret blend of spices that creates the perfect crispy shell around tender, flaky fish.

The atmosphere leans casual and friendly, with staff who remember your name and your usual order after just a couple visits.

Every catfish plate arrives with fluffy hushpuppies that have just the right amount of sweetness and tangy coleslaw that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Weekday lunches tend to be quieter if you prefer a more relaxed meal, while Friday and Saturday evenings buzz with energy as families and friends gather to share platters.

Don’t skip the hot sauce selection at your table—local favorites range from mild to seriously spicy.

3. Cafe Zydeco

Bozeman’s answer to authentic Southern cooking arrived when this lively spot opened, blending Louisiana flavors with genuine Montana hospitality that feels like home.

Cafe Zydeco operates at 2711 W College St, Bozeman, MT 59718, dishing out fried catfish with a golden, perfectly crispy coating that shatters with each bite to reveal moist, tender fish inside.

The vibrant dining room pulses with energy from open kitchen sounds and cheerful conversations bouncing off exposed brick walls decorated with colorful artwork.

Classic Southern sides like buttery hush puppies and slow-cooked collard greens complete each plate with flavors that taste like they’ve been simmering for hours.

College students and longtime residents alike pack the tables during peak hours, creating a diverse crowd that adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

Weekend brunch service offers a different take on catfish with creative preparations that showcase the kitchen’s versatility beyond traditional fried preparations.

4. Cajun Phatty’s

Bold Cajun spices meet Montana-sized portions at this Billings hotspot where every dish arrives packed with flavor that doesn’t hold back on the heat.

Cajun Phatty’s serves hungry crowds at 2564 King Ave W, Billings, MT 59102, featuring authentic Southern-style catfish fried to golden perfection and seasoned with a spice blend that tingles on the tongue.

The casual, no-frills interior puts all the focus on the food, with friendly service that keeps sweet tea glasses full and hot sauce bottles within easy reach.

Seasoned fries arrive piping hot alongside each catfish order, dusted with the same Cajun spices that make everything here memorable.

Regulars often order extra hush puppies because they disappear fast once the basket hits the table, especially when dipped in the house-made remoulade sauce.

Lunch specials offer excellent value for those watching their budget without sacrificing the generous portions this place has become famous for serving.

5. Crazy Mary’s Fish & Chips

With a name that promises fun and food that delivers on flavor, this Billings favorite has built a loyal following around perfectly executed fried fish.

Crazy Mary’s Fish & Chips operates at 1321 6th Ave N, Billings, MT 59101, where the catfish gets fried to achieve that ideal golden, crispy coating that crunches with every bite.

The casual, friendly atmosphere welcomes everyone from construction workers on lunch break to families celebrating Friday night with a fish fry tradition.

Traditional sides like thick-cut fries, creamy coleslaw, and warm hush puppies round out each plate with comforting flavors that never get old.

The staff works efficiently during busy periods, keeping wait times reasonable even when the dining room fills up with regulars who know exactly what they’re coming for.

Takeout orders stay crispy thanks to smart packaging that lets steam escape, making this spot perfect for enjoying catfish at home without losing that fresh-from-the-fryer texture.

6. The Windmill & Bar 51

Where Western heritage meets ocean bounty, this one-of-a-kind establishment serves up seafood in a setting that could only exist in Montana’s creative culinary landscape.

The Windmill & Bar 51 stands at 3429 Transtech Wy, Billings, MT 59102, offering generous portions of catfish in a distinctive atmosphere that blends Home on the Range with Under the Sea in surprisingly harmonious ways.

Vintage ranch decor hangs alongside fishing nets and nautical touches, creating conversation-starter surroundings that match the bold menu offerings.

Catfish plates arrive loaded with enough food to satisfy even the heartiest appetites, with sides that change seasonally to showcase local produce when available.

The bar serves craft beers from Montana breweries that pair beautifully with fried fish, while the full cocktail menu offers creative drinks for those celebrating special occasions.

Live music on weekend evenings adds extra energy to an already lively dining room where locals gather to catch up over shared platters.

7. Pattee Creek Market

This Missoula institution proves that excellent catfish doesn’t always require a traditional restaurant setting, offering quality seafood alongside thoughtfully curated groceries.

Pattee Creek Market operates at 704 SW Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59803, where the respected seafood counter stocks an impressive selection of fresh fish and prepared dishes including ready-to-cook catfish fillets.

The market atmosphere combines neighborhood grocery convenience with specialty food shop quality, attracting customers who appreciate knowing exactly where their food comes from.

Prepared food sections offer seasoned, breaded catfish ready for home frying, along with detailed cooking instructions that help even nervous cooks achieve restaurant-quality results.

Organic produce and local products fill the shelves, making it easy to build an entire meal around your catfish purchase with fresh sides and Montana-made accompaniments.

Staff members share cooking tips freely and can recommend the best preparation methods based on your skill level and available kitchen equipment at home.

8. Montana Jack’s

Comfort food reaches new heights at this family-friendly establishment where catfish dinners come with all the trimmings and none of the pretension.

Montana Jack’s welcomes diners at 52 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, serving up catfish that’s been perfected through years of customer feedback and kitchen refinement.

The spacious dining room features comfortable booth seating and Western-themed touches that celebrate Montana’s heritage while keeping the focus squarely on generous, satisfying meals.

Each catfish dinner includes your choice of two sides from an extensive list that changes with the seasons, ensuring fresh vegetables and perfectly prepared starches accompany every plate.

Children’s portions come at prices that make family dining affordable without resorting to typical kid’s menu shortcuts—the same quality fish just scaled down for smaller appetites.

Weeknight dinner specials often feature catfish at reduced prices, making this spot popular with budget-conscious diners who refuse to compromise on taste or portion size when feeding their families.

9. MacKenzie River Pizza Co

Pizza might be in the name, but this Montana-born chain surprises visitors with a diverse menu that includes surprisingly excellent catfish preparations worth ordering.

MacKenzie River Pizza Co operates multiple Montana locations including 3820 S Reserve St, Missoula, MT 59801, where creative chefs put interesting spins on traditional catfish dishes.

The mountain lodge atmosphere features exposed wood beams and stone accents that create cozy gathering spaces perfect for groups sharing appetizers and entrees family-style.

Blackened catfish appears on the menu alongside fried options, offering lighter preparation for those watching calories without sacrificing the bold flavors this place delivers consistently.

Craft beer selection rotates frequently with an emphasis on regional breweries, providing perfect beverage pairings for fish dishes that benefit from crisp, hoppy accompaniments.

Happy hour specials make appetizer-sized catfish portions accessible for trying something new without committing to a full dinner.

10. The Rib & Chop House

Steakhouses don’t always spring to mind for catfish, but this upscale spot proves that Southern-style fish deserves a place alongside premium cuts and fine wines.

The Rib & Chop House serves discerning diners at 1849 Majestic Ln, Billings, MT 59102, where the catfish receives the same careful attention as the signature steaks and chops.

Elegant dining rooms feature white tablecloths and attentive service that elevates catfish from casual comfort food to sophisticated dinner entree worthy of special occasions.

Preparation methods here lean toward refined techniques, think cornmeal-crusted fillets served over creamy grits with sautéed greens rather than basic fried fish baskets.

Wine pairings get recommended by knowledgeable servers who understand how crisp whites complement the delicate flavor without overwhelming it.

Prices reflect the upscale setting and premium ingredients, making this destination more suited for celebrations than everyday dining.

11. The Burger Dive

Burgers dominate the menu board, but insiders know to scan down to the seafood section where catfish holds its own against the beef-heavy competition.

The Burger Dive operates at 114 N 27th St, Billings, MT 59101, offering catfish baskets that prove this casual spot can fry fish just as expertly as it grills patties.

Dive bar atmosphere embraces the unpretentious vibe with vintage signs, communal tables, and a soundtrack that leans toward classic rock played at conversation-friendly volume.

Catfish sandwiches stack crispy fillets on soft buns with lettuce, tomato, and tangy sauce that ties everything together.

Craft beer taps rotate weekly, offering Montana brews alongside regional favorites that pair surprisingly well with fried seafood.

Late-night hours make this spot popular with service industry workers seeking quality food after their own shifts end.

12. The Montana Club

Regional familiarity meets consistent quality at this Montana-based chain where catfish appears on menus across the state, prepared with the same care at every location.

The Montana Club welcomes guests at multiple addresses including 1011 W Park St, Livingston, MT 59047, serving catfish dinners that locals trust for reliable flavor and generous portions.

Comfortable casual atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between family-friendly accessibility and adult dining sophistication, with separate bar areas for those preferring livelier surroundings.

Menu descriptions detail preparation methods clearly, helping diners choose between fried, grilled, or blackened options based on personal preferences and dietary needs.

Seasonal vegetables and upgraded side options let health-conscious customers enjoy catfish without defaulting to heavy fried accompaniments.

Loyalty programs reward regular visitors with discounts and special offers, making frequent catfish dinners more affordable for those who’ve made this spot part of their weekly routine across Montana communities.

13. The Depot

History and hospitality combine at this converted train station where architectural charm enhances every meal, including surprisingly excellent catfish preparations that honor Southern traditions.

The Depot serves diners at 201 W Railroad St, Missoula, MT 59802, inside a beautifully restored depot building where original details like ticket windows and waiting room benches remain.

High ceilings and period lighting create dramatic dining spaces that feel special without being stuffy, perfect for anniversary dinners or casual lunches alike.

Catfish gets treated with respect here, prepared using traditional techniques but plated with modern presentations that photograph beautifully for those documenting their meals.

Seasonal menu changes keep regular customers interested while maintaining core favorites like the cornmeal-crusted catfish that’s become a signature dish.

Weekend reservations come recommended during peak tourist season when visitors discover this gem alongside locals who’ve been coming for years to enjoy quality seafood in unforgettable surroundings.

14. Paradise Falls

Game days call for hearty food and cold drinks, both delivered in abundance at this sports-focused spot where catfish feeds fans before, during, and after the action.

The Fieldhouse operates at 3621 Brooks St, Missoula, MT 59801, serving catfish platters sized to fuel serious appetites while multiple big screens broadcast everything from college football to professional hockey.

Energetic atmosphere peaks during Montana Grizzlies games when maroon and silver fills the dining room and catfish baskets fly out of the kitchen at impressive speeds.

Shareable platters let groups sample different preparations family-style, making it easy to try both fried and blackened catfish in one visit.

Wing specials often overshadow the seafood menu, but regulars know the catfish holds its own against any item on the extensive appetizer list.

Late-night kitchen hours serve night owls and second-shift workers seeking substantial meals long after most Montana restaurants have closed for the evening.

15. The Silk Road

Culinary boundaries blur deliciously at this fusion spot where catfish gets reimagined through Asian techniques and flavors that create entirely new taste experiences.

The Silk Road brings international flair to 700 SW Higgins Ave Suite 14, Missoula, MT 59803, where creative chefs prepare catfish using methods borrowed from Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese traditions.

Modern dining room design features clean lines and minimalist decor that lets the colorful, artfully plated dishes take center stage as servers deliver them to eager diners.

Sweet and sour catfish offers tangy contrast to the fish’s mild flavor, while ginger-scallion preparations add aromatic complexity that transforms familiar ingredients into something unexpected.

Adventurous eaters appreciate the departure from traditional Southern-fried preparations, though those craving classic comfort might find the fusion approach too far removed from expected catfish experiences.

Lunch specials provide affordable entry points for trying new preparations without committing to full dinner prices, making experimentation easier for curious but cautious diners exploring beyond their usual preferences.

16. The Notorious P.I.G.

Barbecue smoke perfumes the air at this meat-focused joint where catfish finds a home alongside ribs and brisket, prepared with the same dedication to Southern cooking traditions.

The Notorious P.I.G. serves hungry crowds at 247 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802, offering catfish that’s either fried golden or smoked low and slow depending on your mood.

Rustic interior celebrates barbecue culture with vintage signs, picnic-style tables, and the constant aroma of hickory smoke drifting from the kitchen where pitmasters tend their craft.

Smoked catfish provides a unique alternative to fried preparations, developing deep, complex flavors during hours in the smoker that create tender, flaky results unlike anything else on this list.

Southern-style sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread complete each plate with authentic accompaniments that transport diners straight to Memphis or Carolina barbecue country.

Catering services bring these flavors to parties and events, making it possible to serve crowds Montana-sized portions of quality catfish without the stress of cooking for dozens yourself.

17. Ocean Star Seafood Co

Perched along the waterfront, this seafood haven brings coastal vibes to the heart of Montana with dishes that transport diners straight to the Gulf.

Ocean Star Seafood Co calls 1420 Market Pl Dr, Great Falls, MT 59404, home, where the fresh catfish gets a light, crispy coating that lets the natural flavor shine through without overwhelming it.

The relaxed atmosphere features nautical touches and big windows overlooking the water, making it easy to forget you’re hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean.

Families appreciate the kid-friendly menu options and reasonable prices that don’t sacrifice quality or portion size.

The catfish basket comes piled high with golden fillets, crispy fries, and a choice of dipping sauces that range from classic tartar to zesty remoulade.

Sunset dining offers particularly beautiful views during summer months, though the cozy interior stays inviting even when Montana weather turns chilly outside.