10,000 brown trout fingerlings stocked in Uhl to boost angling

In a significant move aimed at promoting angling tourism and strengthening conservation efforts, the Fisheries Department of Himachal Pradesh has stocked 10,000 brown trout fingerlings of the Norwegian strain into the Uhl river in the picturesque Barot Valley of Mandi district.

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The event, held yesterday, was attended by distinguished guests, including Surjeet Singh, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Padhar, and Vimal Guleria, Fisheries Officer at the Trout Farm Barot under the Fisheries Division of Mandi.

This initiative is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to both conserve and promote the brown trout species, which is a favourite among anglers due to its challenging catch and prized culinary qualities. The stocking of the fish into the Uhl river comes in response to the growing demand for angling tourism in the region, aiming to enhance the experience for both local and visiting anglers.

Vivek Chandel, Director-Cum-Warden Fisheries, Himachal Pradesh, stated that the Fisheries Department has been successfully cultivating Norwegian and Denmark strains of brown trout at its Trout Fish Farms in Barot, Mandi, and Dhanwari, Shimla. However, brown trout thrive best in their natural habitats, making it difficult to breed them in traditional fish farming enclosures.

“As such, the decision to release these fish into the wild is a key part of the conservation strategy to maintain the natural biodiversity of the region’s freshwater ecosystems,” he added.

The river Uhl, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural landscapes, provides an ideal environment for trout fishing. The Fisheries Department has identified multiple stretches of the river as prime fishing locations, which will be developed and promoted to attract anglers from across the country and beyond. These efforts are expected to significantly boost local tourism, as the Barot and Tirthan Valleys are already renowned as an “angler’s paradise.”

“The stocking of brown trout in the Uhl river will not only improve the fishing experience in the area but will also contribute to the region’s economy. As part of its long-term strategy, the Fisheries Department will continue to release brown trout fingerlings into various rivers and rivulets throughout the Mandi district, ensuring sustainable management of the fish population,” said Chandel.

The state’s commitment to brown trout conservation dates back to the late 19th century, when the species was first introduced to India by the British in the 1860s. The first successful hatching of brown trout eggs in Himachal Pradesh took place at the Mahili Hatchery in Kullu during 1909-1910. In recent years, the Fisheries Department has initiated a genetic rejuvenation program for the species and has promoted the farming of rainbow trout, providing support to local farmers to expand trout farming operations.

Currently, three main trout farms are operational in the state—Barot Trout Farm, Dhamwadi Trout Farm in Shimla, and the Hamni Banjar Trout Farm in Kullu. These farms play a pivotal role in ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the brown trout population.

The stocking of brown trout in the Uhl river is expected to cater to the increasing interest in angling tourism in the valley, helping further establish Himachal Pradesh as a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. The initiative is also expected to generate substantial economic benefits for local communities through tourism-related activities, including accommodation, food, and other services catering to tourists.

With a continued focus on trout conservation, the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department aims to safeguard the future of brown trout in the region while fostering sustainable fishing practices that will benefit both local anglers and the broader community. The department’s efforts to balance tourism, conservation, and sustainable fisheries management promise to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the fish species in the state.