Fishery
What is Fishery?
A fishery means raising and catching fish or other water animals like prawns and crabs for food and income. In India, many people do fish farming in ponds, tanks, or small water bodies because it needs less land and gives quick profit. It helps meet the growing need for protein-rich food and provides steady jobs in villages. Fish farming is now one of the easiest and most useful ways to earn from agriculture.
Types of Fish Farming
- ● Fish are grown in cement or fiber tanks with proper water circulation.
- ● Best for urban areas or places with limited land space.
- ● Water quality and feeding can be controlled easily.
- ● Useful for rearing fast-growing fish like Tilapia and Catfish.
- ● Allows year-round farming with less water use.
- ● Fish are grown in floating cages placed in rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
- ● Best for large-scale and commercial fish production.
- ● Cages allow easy feeding, monitoring, and harvesting.
- ● Suitable for fast-growing species like Rohu, Catla, and Tilapia.
- ● Helps use natural water bodies without owning land.
- ● This is the most common and traditional way of fish farming in India.
- ● Fish are raised in earthen or cement ponds filled with clean water.
- ● Best for farmers with small or medium land areas.
- ● Easy to manage and low in setup cost.
- ● Pond water can also be used later as natural fertilizer for crops.
- ● Fish farming is combined with poultry, dairy, or crop farming.
- ● Best for maximum use of farm waste and natural resources.
- ● Poultry or cattle waste acts as organic fertilizer for ponds.
- ● Helps increase total farm income without extra cost.
- ● Very useful for rural farmers looking for mixed farming benefits.
- ● Modern system where fish grow in tanks using recycled water and bacteria.
- ● Best for small areas with high fish density and quick profit.
- ● Needs proper aeration and constant monitoring of water quality.
- ● Almost no water waste - very eco-friendly and cost-saving.
- ● Gives high returns in a short time, ideal for beginners and small farmers.
- ● Fish farming gives quick profit as most fish grow fast within a few months.
- ● It needs less land and water compared to other types of livestock farming.
- ● Fish is always in high demand because it’s rich in protein and very healthy to eat.
- ● It creates good job opportunities in rural areas and supports village income.
- ● The government also gives loans and subsidies under schemes like PMMSY and NABARD.
- ● Rohu, Katla, and Mrigal: Indian major carps, fast-growing and popular in markets.
- ● Tilapia: Hardy fish that grows fast and needs less care, good for small farms.
- ● Catfish (Magur, Pangasius): Best for tank or biofloc systems, grows quickly.
- ● Common Carp: Survives in many water conditions, easy to farm.
- ● Prawns and Shrimps: High-value species for export and hotel markets.
- ● Clean, fresh water with a pH level between 6.5 and 8.5 helps fish grow well.
- ● The best water temperature is between 25°C and 32°C, depending on the fish type.
- ● Regular aeration keeps oxygen levels right and prevents fish stress.
- ● Feed fish with protein-rich pellets or local feed to support healthy growth.
- ● Always check water quality and remove waste to keep the pond or tank clean.
- ● Mission: To produce clean, fresh, and high-quality fish in an eco-friendly way while supporting farmers and ensuring food safety.
- ● Vision: To make aquaculture a sustainable source of income and help India become a leading fish-producing nation.
- ● A one-acre pond can grow many fish types together like Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal.
- ● Investment: Around ₹1.5–2 lakh for pond setup, seed, and feed.
- ● Fish Output: About 3,000–5,000 kg of fish every year with good management.
- ● Selling Price: Usually ₹120–₹200 per kg depending on market and fish type.
- ● Total Revenue: ₹4–8 lakh yearly with Net Profit around ₹2.5–5 lakh.
- Pond water can also be reused for crops, reducing fertilizer costs.
- Ideal for farmers with open land and access to a good water source.
Example : Biofloc (BFT) System
- ● Fish are raised in tanks using special bacteria that clean and reuse water.
- ● Setup: 4 tanks of 10,000 liters each can produce 1.5–2 tons of fish yearly.
- ● Investment: ₹1–1.5 lakh depending on tank size and aeration setup.
- ● ROI (Return on Investment): Usually within 6–8 months.
- ● Profit Margin: Higher than ponds due to dense stocking and low water use.
- ● Needs good aeration, daily monitoring, and quality feed for best results.
- ● Best option for beginners, small spaces, and eco-friendly farming.
What is the main goal of fish farming?
Fish farming helps produce healthy food, create jobs, and increase farmers’ income in a short time.
How much land do I need to start fish farming?
Even a small pond or few tanks are enough to begin – space can be adjusted as per budget and location.
Which fish gives the fastest growth in farming?
Tilapia and Catfish grow very fast and are perfect for beginners.
Is fish farming possible in urban areas?
Yes, tank and biofloc systems are best for cities where land is limited.
How do I keep fish healthy and disease-free?
Keep water clean, feed on time, and test water regularly for good results.
Can fish waste water be reused?
Yes, it’s rich in nutrients and can be used to grow crops organically.
What is the future of fish farming in India?
It’s growing fast due to high food demand and better farming technology.
Where can I learn more about fish farming methods?
You can explore detailed guides, updates, and techniques on the ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE website.