Casta Line Trout Farms

presented by Brian Plemmons

at the January 20,2001Aquaculture Forum

Do's List

• Do your research. The Cooperative Extension Service, the state university system, and the state agriculture department know the answers or can help you find them. Your Department of Natural Resources can provide technical and sometimes financial assistance. Don't hesitate to talk to others who are in the business.
• Be realistic. Think about what you're getting yourself into. Recognize that fish farming will demand a great deal of your time. Start-up costs may be significant. Ask yourself how fish farming fits into your family goals.
• Be flexible. You'll never develop the perfect plan, but you can change your plan to meet new conditions. Start small, build, and learn.
• If you are a fee-fishing operation, maintain the water and the grounds to keep them neat and clean.
• Buy your fish from a reputable supplier.
• Again, keep good records. This will help you recognize what works and what doesn't.
• Put out a logbook or a guest book. Ask people to enter their names and addresses, so you'll have a ready-made mailing list for any marketing materials you might develop.
• Be sure your liability insurance coverage is adequate and up to date.
• Help your customers make the most of their experience. Renting fishing gear, selling bait and snacks is profitable and easy, and these are services that people want.  Provide tin cans and little dip nets for youngsters to go play in the creek.  Keep the little ones amused while the parents are fishing and supplying you with an income.
• Remember your customers are also your guests. They've come to your place to enjoy themselves, and they're more likely to do that if your make them feel welcome. Don't look over their shoulders.