Located about 35 minutes from Indianapolis in Martinsville, Indiana, lies Ozark Fisheries. Ozark Fisheries’ Indiana location was established in 1899, with a Missouri facility existing as well. Both facilities have been offering tours to the public for many years, and the Indianapolis location has been a popular location for FFA members visiting Indianapolis every fall.

A group of Tyrone Area FFA Chapter members and members from other chapters across Pennsylvania toured the facility while in Indianapolis for the 92nd National FFA Convention and Expo. 

“I thought the fishery was very cool. It was fun to see all of the fish, and the snapping turtle they caught that morning,” said sophomore FFA member Jordan Snyder.

Common goldfish, koi, butterfly koi, Rosie Red minnows, Sarasa goldfish, Shukunkin goldfish, red fantail, calico, crayfish, trapdoor snails, tadpoles, and mosquito fish are the many species raised and sold through Ozark Fisheries.

Spawning, or the depositing of eggs, usually takes place in May or June. A tranquilizer is added to the water before a hormone shot is given to each fish in order to induce spawning. 

“I enjoyed learning about how and why they inject their fish with hormone shots,” said Emma Bartel, another sophomore FFA member. 

Hatchery tanks are used to protect the eggs from predators while the low water level of the tanks creates a better fertilization rate. Millions of fish are produced every year at the fisheries, and the majority are sold to pet stores or certified online dealers. 

“It was interesting finding out how the fish are raised before going to pet stores,” said sophomore FFA member Olivia Beck.