Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I am interested in buying tilapia to replace the goldfish in my system, but $1 an inch is too much for me to pay. I found places that sell for $10 a pound, but they are a far drive. Does anyone here know a better way to work this out? Thanks!

Overton Fish Farm near Centerville. You've got a ways to drive. Type your address into google maps, choose search nearby and try 'fish farm' or similar 'aquaculture' for example.

To be honest, I've never driven there, and they wouldn't answer my e-mail. That's my only suggestion, though. Good luck. Report back if you find something better.

Why tilapia, I might add; wouldn't channel catfish suit the climate better? Or are you inside?

I added channel cats to my dozen goldfish when I made my pond into a 'system.' I absolutely believe I did the right thing by going with such an easy fish. Unless you already have a year or two under your belt, try to minimize the complications. Catfish have less of those.

Have you asked Brite Ideas (on S Congress) if they have any, uh, bright ideas about fish sourcing?

If you have a long way to drive any way you go, I highly recommend Danbury Fish Farms and an aerator for the trip back. They have a drive-up "Slab Sale" day each month, plus they do answer emails and the phone! They don't mind selling to the "little guy" and have really healthy fish.

My 2 cents, worth price charged!

Rick

Update on Overton Fisheries, I did get a nice e-mail from one of the Overtons (the message was misplaced in a spam folder). He suggested bluegill, and an aquaponics place in Spring, TX called GreenLife Aquaponics. (I know Spring is nowhere near Austin, sorry; if there are any Houston folks tuning in, it might be useful.) Is there a similar place in Austin? Perhaps the fisheries sell to them?

I'm with Rick...Catfish are the better choice for me, I'm up in North Houston (Spring) and never heard of geenlife....I'll have to look them up.