There are several types of fish farming activities. Fish can be kept as a hobby, as a food source, or for ornamental purposes. Many people get a lot of success from their breeding. In any case, starting a business like this could prove to be a big risk. Before starting an aquatic commercial business, it is important to learn everything you can about starting a fish farm.
Steps
Step 1. Decide the purpose of your fish farm
Why are you starting this business?
- Will you keep fish as a food supply, as a pastime or for ornamental purposes?
- Are you planning fish farming as a primary source of income, as an extra income or as a hobby?
Step 2. Learn about fish farming
Learn as much as possible about running a fish farm. This will help you make informed decisions while starting the business.
- Consider signing up for courses and programs related to fish farming.
- Visit various fish farms and question their owners and workers. Also check out websites dedicated to fish farming.
- Look for a part-time job on a fish farm. Practical experience is the best. If you can't find a job, ask the owners of a few fish farms to let you help out on the farm for a few days.
- Online courses, books and manuals are also good options to learn more about fish farming.
Step 3. Determine if you already have a suitable place to start a fish farm
- What kind of water resource do you have available in the land on which you are planning the breeding? What types of fish would be best to keep?
- What kind of climate is there in that area? Is the land prone to flooding?
- Are there any buildings? How many buildings will be needed to start the business? Do you need special permits to start the business?
- Do you have enough space if you need to expand your business? Is there enough space to house and transport the fish?
Step 4. Analyze the prospects for the business
- Do you already have a fish buyer? What type of market is there for the type of fish you intend to raise?
- Have you already contacted any representative of the sector? What is the most suitable type of fish to start your business?
- Have you already made contact with people who can help you when particular emergencies arise?
Step 5. Find out how much money you will need to start the business
How much will you need to start digging tanks and filling them with fish?
- Analyze your savings, investments and assets.
- Consider taking out a small business loan.
- Do you already have a financial plan ready, and how realistic is that?
- What kind of cash flow do you expect?
Step 6. Contact the right person to start the business
- You will first need to take care of the building systems and equipment.
- To start fish farming, you'll need to find a vendor for your starting fish stock.
