Nestled in the heart of Winterborne Houghton, our trout farm is more than just a place where fish thrive; it’s a sanctuary of care and expertise. Here, in the embrace of Dorset’s pristine countryside, we nurture the distinctive Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, ensuring that every fish is raised with the utmost attention to quality and sustainability. Join us as we take you on a behind-the-scenes journey of our farming practices, revealing the meticulous processes that ensure our trout are the best they can be.
The Importance of Water Quality
At Houghton Springs, water is our lifeblood. We draw upon pure chalk spring water from the Winterborne aquifer, which flows crystal clear and full of essential minerals. This natural resource is not only vital for the health of our trout but also contributes to their unique flavour profile. The mineral composition of our water creates a habitat where fish can flourish, leading to a firmer texture and a cleaner taste that diners can truly appreciate.
We monitor water quality closely, conducting regular tests to ensure optimal conditions. Our commitment to low-impact, water-wise farming means that we use only what we need, allowing us to maintain the delicate balance of our ecosystem. This approach is integral to our operations, and it’s a key reason why our fish are prized by chefs and food lovers alike.
Caring for Our Fish: From Egg to Plate
Every trout at Houghton Springs is raised with the highest standards of husbandry. From the moment our eggs are fertilised, we take pride in their journey. After hatching, our fry are nurtured in specially designed tanks that simulate their natural habitat, ensuring they grow strong and healthy.
Our dedicated team conducts daily checks on the fish, monitoring their health and growth rates. We believe that happy fish produce the best flavour. This ethos extends through to their diet, which includes a carefully balanced feed tailored to their needs. This attention to detail ensures that our trout not only reach market size quickly but also maintain exceptional quality.
Prep note: The Winterborne strain typically grows to market size in about 9 to 12 months, allowing chefs to plan their menus with confidence.
Reliable Sizing and Consistent Quality
Consistency is key for chefs, and at Houghton Springs, we understand that well. We offer a range of sizes—from fry to market-ready trout—ensuring that whether you’re stocking a restaurant or filling a fishmonger’s display, you’ll find exactly what you need. Our grading process is thorough, allowing us to deliver fish that meet your specific requirements.
We typically operate on a flexible delivery schedule, ensuring that fresh trout is available to chefs and fisheries across Dorset and nearby counties. As a family-run farm, we take pride in our personable service, and we’re always ready to accommodate your needs.
A Taste of Dorset: Beyond the Fish
What sets our trout apart is not only the water and care but also the ethos behind our farming practices. We are proud to be part of the local community, championing environmentally friendly methods that protect our precious landscape. In addition to our fish, we encourage local partnerships, working closely with restaurants and fishmongers who share our commitment to quality and provenance.
For instance, one of our partner restaurants recently featured our trout in a seasonal dish, pairing it with locally-sourced asparagus and a light lemon butter sauce. The result was a stunning plate that showcased the fish’s delicate flavour while celebrating the bounty of Dorset.
Side note: When ordering, consider trying our whole trout for roasting, which brings out the rich taste and allows for beautiful presentation.
Join Us on This Journey
At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we’re not just about delivering fish; we’re about sharing a passion for excellence that starts from the water and finishes on your plate. With our traceable breeding stock and commitment to eco-friendly practices, we invite you to experience the unique taste of our Winterborne strain trout.
Whether you’re a chef looking to elevate your menu or a fishmonger seeking reliable supply, we’re here for you. Reach out today to explore how you can incorporate our exquisite trout into your cooking or retail offerings.
We can’t wait to share the flavours of Winterborne Houghton with you!
