Catfish

At a glance

• Editor score
  8.6 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Simple free full-text search on Linux
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Content search
  Yes
• Facts checked
  20 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Searches filenames, paths, and file contents
  • Filters by file type, modification date, hidden files, and exact matches
  • Free and open source with list, thumbnail, index, and command-line options

• Where it doesn't

  • Platform support is focused on Linux
  • Integration coverage centers on Zeitgeist, locate, and mlocate
  • Designed for filesystem search rather than broader desktop content search

Our verdict on Catfish

Catfish is a lightweight desktop file-search utility for Linux and Unix systems, with a GTK-based interface suited to users who want a straightforward way to find files. It searches filenames and paths, and can search inside file contents from a selected directory, filesystem, or network location. Filtering by file type or modification date helps narrow results, while hidden-file and exact-match options support more specific searches. It is a practical fit for Linux desktop users who want focused file discovery without a broader productivity suite.

The feature set covers the core needs of desktop search without adding unnecessary complexity. Search suggestions can use Zeitgeist and locate, and the application supports list and thumbnail result views for different browsing preferences. A search-index update option helps maintain indexed results, while command-line options provide an alternative for users who prefer scripted or terminal-based workflows. Local and network locations are both supported, giving Catfish a useful range for personal files and accessible shared storage.

Catfish is free and open source, making it a straightforward choice for Linux users who value a simple desktop utility and inspectable software. Its focus is deliberately centered on filesystem search, with integrations built around Zeitgeist, locate, and mlocate rather than a wide platform ecosystem. Choose Catfish for filename, path, and content searches on Linux; consider another tool if your priority is broader cross-platform coverage or search across a wider range of desktop content sources.

Your product? Our editors can test Catfish in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Catfish pricing

Catfish fact sheet

Catfish integrations

Catfish lists 3 integrations on its own site.

• Zeitgeist
• locate
• mlocate

Alternatives to Catfish

• EverythingA free Windows search utility for instant filename and path discovery.9.3
• Copernic Desktop SearchA Windows search tool for broad local, network, email, and cloud indexing.9.2
• DocFetcherA free, portable full-text search tool for local files, archives, and PST email.9.0

See all Catfish alternatives →

Catfish vs the competition

• CCatfish vs Everything
• CCatfish vs Copernic Desktop Search
• CCatfish vs DocFetcher
• CCatfish vs Wise JetSearch
• CCatfish vs LocalSearch
• CCatfish vs KFind

Compare Catfish with any tool side by side →

Featured on iTechGuides

Catfish is listed in our Desktop Search Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update