Approximately the size of a sardine, the small Menhaden, or "pogey fish," is found abundantly in the Gulf of Mexico just off Cameron Parish. Though humble in appearance, menhaden is highly valued for its oil, which is used in many products worldwide including perfumes, cosmetics, Omega-3 oils for human heart health supplements, medicines, paints - even margarine in England.

Once caught, menhaden is processed in the city of Cameron providing jobs that sustain the culture of the wetlands. Oil is extracted and prepared for shipping while the remaining fishmeal is used in chicken, pig and cattle feed as well as cat food and fertilizer.