Just off Highway 218 of Smithfield, Utah, people catch fish by the bucketful. Mountain Valley Trout Farm covers four acres of land and holds nearly 100,000 fish each year.
Trout farm owner, Leland Barker, has had his farm for 18 years. Prior to moving to Cache Valley, he had part ownership of Cold Springs Trout Farm located in Ogden, Utah.
“I grew up on a farm and I wanted to show everyone that I could do it,” Barker said. “My wife believed in me and so we bought the land and started it up.”
Barker’s family has all had the chance to work on the farm. Nathan Barker, 21, has helped on the farm on and off since he was 10.
“When I was younger, it was loads of fun to gut the fish and pack them up for people to buy,” Nathan Barker said. “But now it just feels like work.”
“It’s great having the chance to work with my kids,” Leland Barker said. “I want them to learn what hard work is.”
According to Barker, the farm typically gets 100 customers per week.
Many of the customers like bringing their families to the farm to fish.
“The atmosphere of the farm is so friendly,” Suzanne Barrett said. “I can’t help but want to bring my children here to fish.”
“This is a great place to take your kids fishing,” said Susan Ward, a frequent customer to Mountain Valley Trout Farm. “You can see the fish swimming in the water and are guaranteed
to catch one.”
The Mountain Valley Trout Farm rents everything needed to begin fishing and will give lessons if desired.
“The prices are reasonable and you don't need a license to fish there,” Ward said.
Barker hopes to add a bigger pond for those wanting to boat.
“We enjoy seeing people having a good time,” Barker said. “I hope we get the chance to see many more.”
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