How to Raise Fish for Profit

More and more people are finding that raising fish for profit is an inventive way to use your land and a lucrative investment that will pay off with time and luck. If you're interested in aquaculture, the technical term for fish farming, it will take some careful research on your part to find out the best way to successfully raise fish on your property. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

1. Start out small. It's best to make a small investment and learn the ropes than embark on a large fish farming venture.

2. Decide whether you will raise the fish in a existing pond or body of water, or construct a pond for that purpose. You can raise fish in a stream or a river. Another option is to make use of an empty barn or building by installing a tank or cage for the fish.

3. Contact your county extension office to find out the best type of fish for your area and situation. For example, trout may thrive in the western states while catfish may be appropriate in the south.

4. Research to find out which fish are most in demand. Also consider hardiness, cost, reproduction rates, and of course, ease of catching.

5. Make sure your water is safe so that you produce fish that are safe for consumption. The best source for raising fish is groundwater. Have the water professionally tested before you make your investment to ensure the environment will be safe for the fish (free of chemicals, pesticides, harmful bacterial, etc.)

6. Carefully plan larger commercial operations before beginning. Read the helpful checklist that Iowa State University has put out for aquaculture operations at extension.iastate.edu.

7. Seek proper licensing for your fish farming operation at your state department of wildlife.

Resources

• The Iowa State Extension office has a helpful checklist for fish operations.
• The Virginia Tech website offers information on freshwater fish farming.
• The Web of Creation website tells how aquaculture can help world hunger.