This study was carried out to investigate the effect of
socio-economic variables on the profit levels of
homestead catfish farmers in Edo State, Nigeria.
Multistage random sampling technique was used to
select agricultural blocks, circles and catfish
farmers. Data were collected using a structured
questionnaire administered to sixty catfish farmers.
A multiple regression analysis (double-log function)
result showed that variable input, farming
experience, amount invested, fish pond size, and
number of fish ponds had positive effect on the profit
levels of homestead catfish farmers. The combined
effects of explanatory socio-economic variables
(fixed inputs, variables inputs, household size, level
of education, fish farming experience, amount
invested, fish pond size, number of fish ponds and
labour) explained 77.9% of the total variation in the
profit levels of homestead catfish farmers, which
were statistically significant at 1.0% probability
level. Unimproved fingerlings and irregular supply
of feeds and fingerlings were the major problems
encountered by the farmers. Subsidies on variable
inputs, low interest rates on intending catfish
farmers and distribution of hybrid fingerlings were
recommended to boost production.