How I hurvest pabda fish

Question

Anurag Gupta · Answer

Harvesting pabda fish (Ompok pabda) involves a few key steps to ensure the fish are collected efficiently and with minimal stress. Pabda is a popular freshwater fish, particularly in regions like West Bengal and Bangladesh, known for its delicate flesh and high market value.

Steps to Harvest Pabda Fish:
Preparation:

Ensure the pond or tank has been managed well with proper feeding and water quality control leading up to the harvest.
Reduce the water level in the pond a day before harvesting to make it easier to catch the fish.
Timing:

Harvesting is best done in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, reducing stress on the fish.
Harvesting Method:

Seining: Use a fine mesh seine net to drag through the pond or tank. The net should be large enough to cover the width of the pond, ensuring that it captures as many fish as possible in a single pass.
Draining: In smaller ponds, you can partially or fully drain the water, making it easier to collect the fish by hand or with nets.
Handling:

Handle the fish gently to avoid stress or injury, as Pabda fish are delicate.
Transfer the harvested fish immediately to containers with clean, aerated water if they are to be transported alive, or to ice water if they are to be stored for later sale.
Post-Harvest Care:

If transporting live fish, ensure the containers are well-aerated and maintain the water temperature to reduce stress.
If storing the fish for sale, keep them on ice and ensure they are kept in hygienic conditions to maintain freshness.
Market Considerations:

Harvesting should be planned based on market demand to ensure you get the best price for your fish. It’s also important to consider the size and weight of the fish, as larger, mature fish generally fetch a higher price.
By following these steps, you can effectively harvest Pabda fish, ensuring high quality and maximum profitability.