Freshwater Farms Ohio 

Freshwater Farms is based in Urbana, Ohio. There is something to do for all of the family. There are tours available, an annual event, and more. Read on to find out more about this delightful family-run farm!

How Did Freshwater Farms Ohio Start?

Freshwater Farms started back in 1983. It is a family-owned organization and it has been in the Smith family for three generations. Dave Smith and his father Dick started the business as Freshwater Farms and over the years it has also expanded in different areas. Dave’s son Ben is also on the team and he is a designer of water fountains with a wealth of experience as a farm manager under his belt!

Dave Smith has a Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences and an M.S. in Marine Sciences. He studied marine science at Louisiana State University where he worked with saltwater shrimp in the bayous. Dave is the first President of the Ohio Aquaculture Association and it is due to his interest in this area that the farm and the association have been able to flourish. He has also gone to great lengths to dispel some of the myths about fish farming.

Does Freshwater Farms Ohio Do Tours?

Yes, they do! They do a self-guided tour and guided tour.

Self-Guided Tour

Tours have been taking place here for over 25 years. These tours have been designed to be fun for all the family, young and old. The greatest part about the self-guided tour is that it is completely free of charge. There is also a sturgeon petting zoo (more about this below), and there are also displays of endangered fish. 

• Monday-Saturday starting at 10 am Year Round – close at 6 pm
• Free of charge (Although the fish feed machines take quarters)

Guided Tour

• The guided tour is available all year round, except for the month of September
• Pre-scheduled Guided Tours are available Monday-Saturday starting at 10 am – the last tour starts at 4:30 pm
• These tours are managed by an employee.
• The tours last for 45 minutes.

Can We Have A Picnic?

• Picnic tables are free of charge. There are tables in the fresh air and in covered locations as well.
• Tour groups may bring their own food and drinks for consumption.
• Drinks and snacks are available in the retail store.
• Picnic lunches can be ordered ahead of a tour. Please be aware that these must be ordered at least a week in advance. Please contact the team directly for further information

Is There A Petting Zoo For The Kids?

Yes, there is a sturgeon petting zoo.

There is an amazing sturgeon petting zoo. This petting zoo is free of charge and is a huge hit with all visitors. The petting zoo is located in the hatchery and is open when the farm is open. The farm is also home to white sturgeon, the first of which was flown in from Oregon in 1997. Sturgeon are popular to stock in private ponds as they can destroy some form of fish parasites and reduce the snail population.

Is Feeding The Fish Allowed?

There is an abundance of trout. These guys love to eat and it does not matter what time of the year it is, come rain or shine they will eat and they will eat a lot! Visitors can feed the rainbow trout which creates a “trout feeding frenzy”. Once these trout know that there is food around, they will leap into action and the entire water will erupt with activity. There is food available from dispensers for a nominal fee.

Here is a short video of a ‘Feeding Frenzy’:

Are There Any Other Displays?

Displays of animals include:

• Crayfish
• Ducks
• Salamanders
• Shrimp
• Snails
• Toads
• Turtles

Last, but certainly not least…

The resident cat!

Does Freshwater Farms Ohio Host Any Events?

Yes! Be sure to check out the events calendar!

Whilst they do different types of events throughout the year, they do one huge event in the month of September – The Ohio Fish and Shrimp Festival.

This Festival is extremely popular with people in Ohio and it also attracts visitors from further afield. The festival is about good food, drinks and music.

Check the website for information about next year’s festival.

What Products and Services Are Available?

There are different products and services available:

• Aeration
• WaterSmith Fountains
• Stocking Fish
• Water Quality Management
• Setting up Ponds

Can Freshwater Farms Ohio Help Me Start Fish Farming?

As time has gone on, fish farming has come on in leaps and bounds. Thankfully for people who want to dip their toe into the water of fish farming, They offer a consulting service for people who have a fish farm at the commercial level. 

Retail Store

Freshwater Farms has a retail store onsite.

In the store, visitors have the opportunity to purchase items such as trout, other types of fish, and treats for canines as well. Other items such as mac and cheese, maple syrup, syrups, jams, pancakes, and honey are also available. It is also worth noting that the smoked trout that is available to purchase is ready to eat straight away, so a great way to sit down at a picnic table and eat this lovely delicacy.

Is It Possible To Shop Online?

Online shopping is available. This is an easy way to shop. Buyers will have to create an account before they can purchase items online.

Is There A Map Available of Freshwater Farms Ohio?

Yes, there is a map of Freshwater Farms available. This is a great help before and during a visit to the farm. Print the map here for your own reference.

We had a fantastic experience at this fish farm! Our kids loved feeding the fish and touching the Sturgeon. The staff was super nice and helpful, especially one of the owners. Simply a neat experience for all!

DanKan (Trip Advisor)

Where Is Freshwater Farms Ohio Located?

• Address: 2624 N U.S. Highway 68, Urbana, OH 43078
• Phone: 937-652-3701 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Let’s Go To Freshwater Farms Ohio!

Have you visited Freshwater Farms? What was your favorite thing to do while you were there? We would LOVE to hear all about your trip!

If you love animals and farms, we highly recommend a visit to Marmon Valley Farms – a great visit for the whole family!

Here are some other farms that welcome visitors: Walker Farms, Molnar Farms, Leeds Farm.

In fact, if you love adventure in general – we can recommend some fantastic Ohio adventures for you!