Meanwhile, the fish retained for over-wintering continue to be fed on gradually larger grades of fish pellets. As the fry grow they are divided between two of the large rearing tanks to allow room for growth. At this stage cleanliness is of paramount importance and the tanks are drained down and cleaned out on a daily basis. Should there be any sign of disease the affected fish are quickly removed and the remainder are treated with the necessary remedies to prevent the spread of infection.

Fry ready for marking |
Prior to their release these fish are marked, on their undersides, with an indelible blue vegetable dye. This dye is harmless to both fish and humans and usually fades away completely in four to five years. Prior to handling and marking, the fish are treated with an anaesthetic to minimise stress and they appear to suffer no ill effects as a result of the process. The number and position of the dye spots can vary from year to year to assist in assessment of the growth rate of over-wintered fish. Early indications are that fish stocked at a weight between 2 and 3 ounces are being caught the following year at weights ranging from 10 to 12 ounces.
The abundance of natural feeding in the loch is obvious from this remarkable growth rate. Other than Mayfly Nymphs, the loch is rich in freshwater Shrimp, Daphnia, Midge Larvae, Caddis, Snails, a variety of Olive Nymphs as well as Minnows, Sticklebacks and a myriad of other small creatures. This diet produces fish with flesh of a deep red colour and a truly exquisite flavour, making them excellent for the table.

Dye Marking prior to release