"Catfish John" is a song written by Bob McDill and Allen Reynolds, and recorded by American country music artist Johnny Russell. It was released in November 1972 as the fourth single from the album, "Catfish John"/"Chained". The song is credited with propelling Bob McDill into the front ranks of country songwriters.The song has also been performed by Jerry Garcia (Jerry Garcia Band, Old and in the Way, Grateful Dead), as well as other musicians.