So my first question is,where in Ab are you catching those .
 
Rock Bass like most bass are fatty , your best to scale them , gut them
Head off ....fry whole ....

 Channel cats I've eaten lots steaked and smoked , you can soak the steaks
 In salt water , gets rid of some of the fat .  Or Make a nice light beer batter .
   I like half aunt jemima ,half flour , garlic powder , onion powder , paprika ,
   And your favourite brew . Absolutely use peanut oil , Crisco lard as second
   Choice .

    The taste of cats depends on the water they live in . For instance Red River
     Cats taste pretty muddy . Winnipeg River Cats xcellent ,nice white meat .
      If you know a place to get them closer than Manitoba , I'll join you lol