A new five-year deal for the lease of the Government-owned fish hatchery at Cornaa is good news for the Island’s leisure market.
Troutlodge will continue to run the hatchery, which breeds and supplies rainbow trout for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture’s reservoirs, DEFA announced today.
The American company has operated the hatchery since Government sought a tenant in 2010 and has signed a deal with DEFA that will continue the arrangement.
The reservoir fishing season runs from March to January and Troutlodge releases up to 20,000 rainbow trout into the Clypse, Kerrowdhoo, Ballure, Sulby, Cringle and West Baldwin reservoirs.
This year, anglers have enjoyed the challenge of fishing for some extra-large trophy fish that were added to reservoirs during the season, including several weighing more than 20lbs. In June, a 21lb 3oz rainbow trout caught at Cringle reservoir set a new Manx rainbow trout record.
Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:
‘Making the Island attractive to visitors is a key aim of the Isle of Man Government’s blueprint for economic growth, Vision 2020.
‘Local and visiting anglers alike enjoy some fantastic fishing opportunities here, with a selection of reservoirs to choose from, all stocked with top-quality fish.
‘Troutlodge produces a reliable supply of high-quality fish throughout the season and I am delighted that the Department and the company are to continue this favourable deal.’
The Troutlodge-owned Glen Wyllin Trout Farm in the west of the Island produces exports 40 million rainbow trout eggs each year, mainly to Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Gary Charsley, Managing Director of Glen Wyllin Trout Farm, commented:
‘I am pleased to be able to confirm this new agreement with DEFA. We have built up a positive working relationship and I look forward to developing this partnership.’
For information on freshwater fishing or to buy a licence online, visit www.gov.im/categories/leisure-and-entertainment/recreational-fishing/freshwater-fishing/
