How to Build a Deep Fish Dugout

Deep fish dugouts house stocked fish for farming from fingerling length to harvest size. They are filled by precipitation, runoff, groundwater or a natural or artificial body of water. Location and water source determine some aspects of construction, including whether a liner is needed and the type of fencing required.

Things You'll Need

  • Backhoe
  • Corrugated metal pipe
  • Control grate
  • Lining
  • Air compressor operated pump with power source
  • Aeration diffuser
  • Fencing
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Instructions

  1. Building the Dugout

    • 1
      Size is determined by the number and type of fish reared.

      Plot the area for the intended dugout and dig to a depth of at least 13 1/2 feet. The number and type of fish you are rearing will determine the dimensions; consult an aquaculture guide for appropriate length, width and depth. Slope depends on the needs of the species you are rearing and local threats. If your species needs a shallow area, grade the slope beginning on one side and move gradually down to your maximum depth. If no shallow area is necessary, the maximum recommended slope steepness is 1.5:1, or 67 percent. Slope may need to be adjusted based on soil stability conditions. Steeper slopes discourage fish-eating predators, including water birds. Shallow slopes encourage growth of water plants.

    • 2
      Dugouts can be offshoots of another body of water.

      Dig a trench and install the corrugated metal pipe from the original water source to your dugout, if your water source is another body of water. Install the control grate on the dugout end of the pipe to control water flow and prevent fish movement.

    • 3
      Liners are only used in areas with low water tables.

      Install liner, if your dugout is located in an area with a low water table. Many different options for impervious liners are available. Consult aquaculture specialists in your area for recommendations. If you use a liner, it must be backfilled to a depth of around two feet.

    • 4
      Monitor water levels as dugout fills.

      Allow the dugout to fill with water from selected source. Monitor it to prevent overflow and close the control grate or add overflow ditches if necessary.

    • 5
      Planted dugouts do not require additional aeration but need far more maintenance.

      Attach an air compressor to a power source. Install the pump. Install the aeration diffuser after the pump has begun functioning.

    • 6
      Fences keep predators out and reduce drowning hazard.

      Enclose the dugout with fencing. The type of fencing depends on hazards for area, including potential access by children, pets, livestock, predators and trespassers. Some possible choices are berms, brush fencing, wooden fencing or hurricane fence. Consider your needs for ease of access and maintenance when installing fencing.