Kona, Hawaii

Troutlodge Marine Farms of Kona is located along the beautiful Kona coast of Hawaii's Big Island. Here atop the hardened lava beds, we are able to farm both warm and cold water species in this tropical environment, thanks to the unique set-up at the NELHA facility where the farm is situated. Pristine, pathogen-free sea water is brought to the surface through a series of pipes that stretch 2,000 and 3,000 feet below sea level. This cold (4°C) sea water is then mixed with warm (27°C) surface water to provide us with the ideal temperature of water for raising any species of marine fish.

We are currently focusing our work in Kona on two species. Sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria), which we have branded "Big Island Butterfish," is a cold water species typically found in the North Pacific Ocean. It is a prized food fish throughout the Pacific Rim, particularly in Hawaii and Japan, for its pearly white flesh, large velvety flakes and sweet, rich flavor. In addition, we are working with moi (Polydactylus sexfilis), a warm water species native to the reefs of Hawaii. This fish is known as the "Ali'i" fish, meaning "Fish of the Kings," thanks to its tradition as the fish preferred by the local ruling chiefs.

While we currently produce food fish for sale to the fine chefs of Hawaii, our ongoing research and development is focused on our long-term goal of the production and sale of genetically-superior eggs and juveniles of these high-value marine species.

We are in the process of completing the second phase of construction at the Kona site. The improved hatchery and live feeds facilities, increased tank capacity, and application of modern recirculation technology will enable us to significantly expand and improve upon our broodstock populations and production capacity. We also control a third plot of land at the NELHA site. This plot remains undeveloped, and will be expanded upon as the company grows in the coming years. The work being done with sablefish is also supported by ongoing work by Troutlodge Marine at NOAA's Manchester Research Station in the Puget Sound (Washington State, USA).