Fish have always been a prized possession for certain individuals and families around the world. It is said that the Chinese were the first to realize the value of fish and the delicacy that they bring to the table. The Chinese have historically been the leading producers of fish in the world with certain varieties of fish, such as salmon and tuna, becoming a symbol of status and affluence.
In recent years, people have begun to appreciate the value of fish even more so as fresh, sustainable fish have become more accessible and affordable.
When you’re trying to cook a fresh, juicy steak, you may be considering where you’re going to get it from and how you’re going to prepare it. Are you going to go all the way to the market and get it yourself? Or are you going to order it in advance from a restaurant?
The answer could be right in your own backyard if you have a fishpond. Just about any type of fish will do, though some are better suited for specific purposes. For example, trout are extremely versatile and can be fried or grilled. Some fish, such as cod, are best kept cold while others, like salmon, are best served at room temperature.
The benefits of keeping fish in your own backyard are many. You can raise the fish yourself which is beneficial due to the fact that you know exactly what went into its making. There will also be less stress and anxiety involved in procuring it since it is less expensive and more easily accessible. Finally, you are not contributing to the destruction of natural habitats since you are not taking the fish from the wild; you are raising it in a fishpond which is generally considered better for the environment.
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What Types Of Fish Are There?
Although there is such a thing as fish farming, keeping fish in your backyard is very different from raising them in huge aquariums. When you’re growing your own food, you are able to raise several different varieties which have varying tastes and textures. This is something that cannot be accomplished in a tank where the inhabitants are often of a single species.
The fish you raise in your tank will all taste the same, regardless of whether it is a common fish, such as the tetra or discus, or an exotic variety, such as the salmon.
There is also the option to keep a certain number of dwarf fish in your tank as an addition to your food source. These little guys are great for fishing and can be quite entertaining to watch as they dart around the tank looking for food. Some keepers of tropical fish claim that their little friends help keep the tanks clean by cleaning out the water which is often filled with debris at the end of each day.
How Do You Feed Your Fish?
Whether you are a professional chef or an amateur dinner guest, you will need to ensure that your fish are fed regularly and in good amounts to maintain healthy, fleshed fish. This will vary depending on the type of fish you have but, in general, will consist of either live or frozen foods.
You may opt to feed your fish a blend of both as long as you ensure that you are changing its diet every week or so. Freshwater fish, such as trout and catfish, will often feed on live food, such as worms and insects, which are found in great abundance in ponds and lakes. Frying the fish yourself is another great way to go along with a live bait fish tank.
If you opt for a frozen diet, you will need to thaw it out slowly in the refrigerator so that it does not become contaminated with ice crystals which can harm the fish. You should prepare this diet for the fish several days in advance so that the meat does not lose its texture.
How Much Does It Cost To Raise Fish?
When you’re deciding how much you can spend on fish food, it’s important to consider the cost of keeping each individual fish and the number of fish you intend to keep. Freshwater fish, such as trout and catfish, will generally range in price from $2 to $5 each; however, certain varieties, such as the goldfish and piranhas, can cost up to $10 each or more!
The cost of maintaining a freshwater fish tank will be relatively low compared to other types of fishes which are generally more expensive to buy and care for. Even then, the initial investment in equipment, such as a tank, will be more than costed back over time due to the simplicity and cheapness of its upkeep.
Is It Worth It?
The answer to this question depends on your personal circumstances and what you’re looking for. If you want to establish a small, private pond in your backyard for yourself and your family, then the answer is a resounding yes!
The beauty of having your own pond is that not only can you raise food for yourself but you can sell the extra fish that you do not need to continue living comfortably.
Certainty of the catch, with or without gear, is often a crucial element in a fisherman’s pursuit of fresh fish. While the sport of fishing offers great excitement and potential for a catch most fisherman are not able to provide for themselves, the joy of the catch can be significantly diminished if the fish is not healthy and tasted fresh. Knowing that what you’re putting in your body is good for you is only half the battle.
The benefits of having your own pond, as introduced before, are numerous. You will be able to prepare and serve fresh fish without exposing yourself to the risk of illness from contaminated water sources. You can also sell the fish that you catch if you’re not able to eat them yourself which is certainly a benefit for you or your family in need of extra funds.
The decision to raise fish as food for your family and for yourself is certainly a personal one. What are your thoughts?