Animal welfare organization Animal Equality UK has raised concerns about practices at Bibury trout farm, one of England’s oldest trout farms located in Gloucestershire. The charity claims to have documented instances of improper handling and distressful treatment of fish, including footage that allegedly shows fish being beaten and left to suffocate, some of which involved untrained public participants, including children.
The farm, established in 1902 and a popular tourist destination, allows visitors to catch and kill trout using supplied equipment. The fish are killed using a device referred to as a “priest.” The farm states that it adheres to strict regulations set by the Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (England) Regulations 2015 and the Animal Welfare Act 2006, expressing concern over the allegations.
Animal Equality UK contends that the actions caught on video breach these regulations, which are intended to prevent unnecessary suffering during the killing process. The footage reportedly shows multiple strikes to a fish before it stops moving and extended periods of fish being out of water, contrary to recommendations from the RSPCA, which advises that trout should not be kept out of water for more than 15 seconds for welfare reasons.
Additionally, the report released by Animal Equality UK and the Humane League UK highlights overall welfare concerns in trout farming, including crowding, poor water quality, and improper stunning techniques.
The British Trout Association reports that the UK has around 290 trout farms, collectively processing about 17,000 tonnes of trout annually. In light of these issues, Animal Equality UK is advocating for better legal protections for farmed fish, which is a matter supported by the Animal Welfare Committee.
The farm has indicated it is taking steps to improve animal welfare practices, including limiting the number of fishing rods per staff member and providing educational guidance to visitors about responsible fishing and animal treatment. A formal complaint has been filed with Gloucestershire county council’s trading standards, which plans to investigate.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/24/bibury-trout-farm-cotswolds-accused-animal-welfare-abuses