This article was featured in Eurofish Magazine 3 2026.
On the Estonian island Saaremaa, Pähkla Crayfish and Fish Farm is celebrated for its eco-friendly cultivation of rainbow trout. This high-quality fish has become a favourite among Estonia’s top chefs for its firm texture and delicate, juicy flavour.
Located in Pähkla village, the farm benefits from the Pühatu spring which is famous for its clarity and constant supply of fresh, mineral-rich water which maintains a temperature of 7 degrees centigrade both summer and winter. This “bottomless” spring provides the ponds with a healthy growing environment which is critical for the clean taste and high nutrient content of the trout. While rainbow trout is the primary focus, the farm also raises carp and noble crayfish. Pähkla Crayfish and Fish Farm dates to the 1980s, but modern fish farming practices began in 2004. The farm’s competitive edge lies in the vertical integration of fish farming, production, and sales.
Nature-friendly fish farming
Pähkla farms approximately 150 tonnes of rainbow trout annually across ten ponds of varying sizes. Saaremaa’s pristine environment and natural water bodies provide the ideal habitat for raising rainbow trout, ensuring fresh and high-quality fish. By avoiding artificial additives and relying on the natural flow of spring water, the company ensures the fish are free from the off-flavours common in more industrial settings. The trout thrive in their natural habitat ensuring both quality and taste.
Significant support from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund(EMFAF) has enabled Pähkla to modernise its facilities, including processing and refrigeration equipment, to deliver domestically produced, top-quality fish and fish products all the year round. Investments made in pond reconstructions and technology have streamlined all stages of fish farming. The installation of solar power plants highlights Pähkla’s commitment to renewable energy and has reduced both electricity costs and ecological footprint. Moreover, some 80% of the water is recycled, says Remy Kolberg, an employee at the farm. Modern vehicles are used to transport the products so that they are delivered rapidly while maintaining the integrity of the cold chain. Trout products include fresh and smoked fish in different formats. More information is available at www.pahkla.ee.
Signe Soomann
Estonian Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture
