Following the successful rearing of small carp in 2004, I increased the number of fish for growth in 2005. Some 50,000 carp have been grown in six different ponds at two sites, one near Rugeley and the other close to Luton. Both are secure, unfished locations containing no other species.
The carp were stocked as four-month old individuals that were born in late January 2005 in the state-of-the-art coldwater fish hatchery at Rodbaston College, near Stafford. The parents were carp from Orchid Lakes, near Abingdon, and the Carp Society’s Horseshoe Lake, near Lechlade – both venues known for specimen fish to 40lb .
The fish are 50:50 commons and mirrors, with a high percentage of fully-scaled mirrors. They are characterised by the red tinge to the edges of the lower fins, a coloration which becomes more pronounced with age. The carp look fantastic and are as fat as butter. They have the capability for extremely fast growth: some of the 2004 fish now weigh 3lb at just less than two years of age, and they have the potential to grow to 30lb within 8-10 years!
The carp have been fed during the spring and summer on a complete, specialist carp pellet diet in ponds protected by anti-predators nets and overhead wires. Harvesting began in early January 2006 and, on a pond-by-pond basis, it will continue until early April 2006. When growth stopped in late autumn 2005, the carp were nearly 6oz average weight, with most within the 5oz-8oz range. They have been subject to full health checks, which they passed with flying colours.
Before sale, ‘Section 30 Consent’ (permission to stock the fish) will be necessary, and this can be arranged with the Environment Agency on your behalf at no cost.
These carp can be ordered for any quantity subject to a minimum order of 600 fish (or 150lb total weight) unless you collect the fish, in which case you can purchase any quantity. They cost £6.00/lb, plus VAT, and 5% extra will be included free of charge to cover any accidental transfer or post-stocking mortalities. If you have your fish delivered, a 0.40p/mile delivery charge will apply to the return journey.
The fish are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the order book will be closed once all the fish have been allocated. To reserve your fish, contact Bruno Broughton at the address below, fax or email.
Broughton Fishery Technologies Ltd.
Registered in England & Wales No. 4850086. VAT Reg. No. 827 6032 31
Registered Office: Trenchard, Lower Bromstead Road, Moreton, Nr Newport, Shropshire TF10 9DQ
Website: www.bruno-broughton.co.uk
Email: bruno.broughton@virgin.net
