Movanagher Fish Farm

The farm produces brown and rainbow trout to supply the Department’s Angling Estate.  Water is supplied directly from the River Bann by gravity to the various tanks, supplemented with borehole water pumped directly into the hatchery.  An aeration tower ensures that the latter is well oxygenated and dissolved nitrogen removed before use.  The borehole water, being very clean and of constant temperature, is used primarily in the hatching and early development of the fry.  It is also of considerable value during the warm summer months in order to keep fish cool.

Ova are produced annually from brood fish, which are specially selected for the purpose.  When the young fish are suitably developed - usually one or two years old - they are transported live in oxygenated tanks and stocked into various fisheries which make up part of the Public Angling Estate around Northern Ireland.

All fish stocked are 'catchable sized' (25 cm +) and contribute directly to angling opportunities for both local and visiting anglers.

The farm also supplies small quantities of fish to private angling clubs and fisheries.  Additionally, the Department, to support the work of various voluntary, disabled and community groups, also supplies fish on a charitable basis for a variety of angling competitions.

Staff at the fish farm offer free technical advice on fish husbandry techniques, stocking and conservation issues to organisations and interested members of the public.

Visitors have always been welcomed at the farm, particularly school groups.  Prior appointment is necessary in order to ensure that all health and safety requirements are in place and to ensure staff are available on specified dates.