Trout Sweden

Trout farming is a well-established and significant sector of the aquaculture industry in Sweden, with a strong focus on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and meeting domestic demand. Rainbow trout is overwhelmingly the most important species cultivated.

• Dominant Species: Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is by far the most commonly farmed fish in Sweden, accounting for the vast majority of aquaculture production. It's raised for both its meat and its roe (often marketed as "red caviar").

• Production Environments: Trout farming takes place in various environments across Sweden. This includes:

  • Marine and Brackish Water Cages: Farms in coastal areas and the Baltic Sea are common.

  • Freshwater Facilities: Lakes and rivers, often in conjunction with hydropower dams, are also utilized.

  • Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): There's a growing trend towards land-based RAS facilities. These systems are highly controlled, minimize water usage, and significantly reduce nutrient discharges into natural waterways, aligning with Sweden's strong environmental ethos.

• Sustainability and Regulations: Sweden has stringent environmental regulations governing aquaculture. Trout farmers are expected to adopt sustainable practices to minimize their ecological footprint. This includes careful management of feed, waste, and disease to prevent impacts on wild fish populations and local ecosystems. The use of RAS technology is partly driven by these environmental considerations.

• Economic Contribution: The trout farming industry contributes to the local economy by providing jobs, particularly in rural areas, and by supplying a consistent source of protein to the Swedish market. It helps to reduce reliance on imported fish.

Trout in Sweden

Alvdalslax

Nordic Trout

VBCN - Swedish research

Umlax - trout or char?