How to Start Fish Farming? A Complete Guide from Setup to Profit

Fish farming

Krishi Dunia

• 05 Jan, 2025 11:30 AM IST ,
• Updated Sun, 05 Jan 2025 12:30 PM

Fish farming is a rapidly growing agricultural business in India. It can be done on a small scale at home or on a larger scale in commercial ponds. This business not only provides a good source of income but also offers new employment opportunities for rural youth and farmers. In this article, we will discuss all the aspects of fish farming in detail.

1. How Many Fish Can Be Farmed in an Acre?

In an acre-sized pond, you can easily farm 3,000 to 5,000 fish. However, this number depends on the quality of the pond, water availability, fish species, and maintenance. With the right food and environment, the number and growth rate of fish can be increased.

2. Best Practices for Fish Farming:

To ensure successful fish farming, the following points should be considered:

1. Selecting the Right Pond: Choose a pond of 0.5 to 1 hectare size with year-round water availability.
2. Choosing the Right Fish Species: Consider species like Catla, Rohu, Mrigal, Grass Carp, and Tilapia.
3. Water Quality: The pH level of water should be between 6.5 and 8.5.
4. Use of Fertilizers: Use lime, cow dung, and organic fertilizers to enhance pond fertility.
5. Natural and Artificial Feed: Provide both natural food and nutritional feed for the fish.
6. Disease Management: Regularly check the fish and provide timely treatment for any illnesses.

3. What are the Costs Involved in Fish Farming?

The cost of fish farming depends on the size of the pond and the farming method used. For an acre-sized pond, the following are estimated costs:

This is the initial investment, and after production and sales, significant profit can be earned.

4. How to Start Fish Farming at Home?

If you wish to start fish farming at home, follow these steps:

1. Build a Small Pond or Tank: Construct a small tank or pond near your house.
2. Buy Fish Seed: Purchase fish seeds from a fish farming center or the fisheries department.
3. Maintain Water Quality: Ensure proper pH, oxygen levels, and temperature of the water.
4. Use Feed and Fertilizers: Manage both natural and artificial feed for the fish.
5. Maintenance: Regularly check the fish and clean the pond.

5. Earning Potential from Fish Farming:

The income from fish farming depends on the pond size, number of fish, and their weight. On average, an acre pond can produce 4-6 tons of fish. If the market price of fish is ₹100 per kg, the potential income from an acre pond can range from ₹4 to ₹6 lakhs. After deducting costs, the net profit could be between ₹2 to ₹3 lakhs.

6. Fish Farming Training Centers:

Several government and private institutions in India offer fish farming training. These centers provide information on modern techniques, management, and disease control. Some key training centers are:

1. National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB): Located in Hyderabad.
2. Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA): Located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
3. Fisheries Department: State-run training programs.
4. Agricultural Universities: Many states offer fish farming courses and training programs.

7. Benefits of Fish Farming:

1. Economic Profit: Fish farming offers good returns with low investment.
2. Job Creation: It provides employment opportunities in rural areas for youth and farmers.
3. Source of Nutrition: Fish are a good source of protein.
4. Environmental Preservation: The use of ponds and water resources helps in environmental conservation.
5. Government Assistance: The government offers subsidies and training to promote fish farming.

Preparing the Pond:

1. Soil and Water Testing:
   • Pond soil should consist of 40% sand, 30% silt, and 30% clay.
   • The water's pH level should be between 6.5-8.5.
2. Use of Fertilizers:
   • Use lime and cow dung to increase fertility.
   • Organic fertilizers should be used to provide natural food for fish.
3. Control of Aquatic Plants:
   • Remove unwanted plants to create space for fish.

Fish Species Selection:

1. Catla:
   • Fast-growing species.
   • Grows 1-1.5 kg within a year.
2. Rohu:
   • Tasty and nutritious.
   • Sells at high market prices.
3. Mrigal:
   • Bottom-dwelling fish, helps in pond cleaning.
4. Grass Carp:
   • Helps control aquatic plants in the pond.
5. Tilapia:
   • Fast-growing and low-cost farming.

Fish farming is a profitable business that can be done on both small and large scales. Not only does it offer economic benefits, but it also provides a source of employment and nutrition in rural areas. If managed properly, fish farming can yield significant profits every year.

Read More...

• PM surya ghar scheme, learn how to get 300 units of free electricity
• PM kisan samman nidhi yojana 2024, benefits, eligibility, required documents, and application process