Houghton Springs Trout Farm: A Gem of Sustainable Aquaculture in Dorset

Welcome to Houghton Springs Trout Farm—proudly rooted in the picturesque village of Winterborne Houghton, Dorset. With over 45 years of experience in aquaculture, we are dedicated to raising high-quality Winterborne strain rainbow trout in a way that honors our heritage and respects the environment. Our commitment to sustainable practices, traceability, and community values makes us a unique destination for locals and visitors alike.

A Legacy of Excellence in Aquaculture

For more than four decades, Houghton Springs Trout Farm has been a family-run business committed to sustainable aquaculture. Our journey began with the vision of providing exceptional fish that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our customers. The Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, which we raise with love and care, is known for its superior flavor and quality, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks across Dorset and beyond.

Our farm’s history is rich and deeply intertwined with the community. We’ve nurtured a passion for aquaculture that has been passed down through generations, ensuring that our practices are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. To learn more about our heritage, visit our History page.

A Unique Environment: Pure Water, Healthy Fish

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we take pride in utilizing the pure chalk spring water sourced from the Winterborne aquifer. This exceptional water quality is fundamental to our fish’s health and growth, providing them with the ideal environment to thrive. Our farm operates with low-impact systems and is the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, which enhances our biosecurity measures and ensures the highest standards of fish welfare.

Why Our Water Matters

  • Crystal Clear Quality: The chalk spring water is naturally filtered, offering a pristine habitat for our trout.
  • Biosecurity: Our compartmental farming strategy reduces the risk of disease, allowing us to maintain a healthy fish population.
  • Sustainable Practices: By harnessing natural resources, we minimize our environmental footprint.

To dive deeper into our water system, check out our Our Water page.

Traceability and Quality from Broodstock to Table

We believe in complete traceability, ensuring that every fish we produce can be traced back to our carefully selected broodstock. Our commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of our operation, from the moment the eggs are fertilized to the time they reach your plate.

Our Quality Assurance Process

  • Eggs and Fry: We supply high-quality eggs and fry, perfect for those looking to restock their ponds or embark on their aquaculture journey.
  • Sporting Fish: Our farm raises robust sporting fish ideal for recreational fishing enthusiasts.
  • Fresh Trout: We deliver fresh trout directly to local restaurants, retailers, and customers, ensuring the highest standard of quality and flavor.

Our nightly delivery service extends across the UK, ensuring that our fresh fish reaches customers quickly and efficiently. Discover our full range of offerings on our Fish For Sale page.

Sustainability and Innovation: Looking to the Future

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, sustainability is more than a buzzword; it’s the heart of our operations. Our eco-friendly farming practices aim to protect the natural environment while providing delicious, high-quality fish. We are continually exploring innovative ideas to enhance our sustainability efforts, such as:

  • Floating Solar Technology: We are integrating solar panels into our water systems to harness renewable energy and further reduce our carbon footprint.
  • Smoked Products: We are excited to announce that we are developing a range of smoked trout products, perfect for culinary enthusiasts looking to elevate their dishes.

As we move forward, our commitment to stewardship of the valley remains strong. We are dedicated to protecting the rich biodiversity of Winterborne Houghton while providing our community with exceptional aquaculture products. Learn more about our vision for the future on our The Future page.

Connecting with Our Community

Being a part of the Dorset community is something we hold dear. We love connecting with local chefs, restaurants, and customers, supplying them with our high-quality trout. Our fish is served in establishments from Poole to Salisbury, and we take pride in contributing to the local culinary scene.

Whether you’re a chef looking for the freshest fish or a family wanting to enjoy a delicious meal at home, we welcome you to be part of our story. We are conveniently located for residents of Wiltshire, Somerset, and Hampshire, making us an accessible destination for fresh, sustainable trout.

Join Us at Houghton Springs Trout Farm

Houghton Springs Trout Farm is more than just a place to buy fish; it’s a community hub where sustainability, quality, and tradition come together. We invite you to visit our farm, experience the beauty of the Dorset countryside, and learn more about our practices. If you have any questions or would like to place an order, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us.

Call to Action

We look forward to welcoming you to Houghton Springs Trout Farm—where tradition, community, and sustainability meet to bring you the best of Dorset’s aquaculture.