Public Relations Newsroom

Bell Aquaculture is a producer and processor of farm-raised fish for restaurant and consumer use.  Initial production facilities, dedicated to yellow perch (Perca flavescens), are located in Albany, Indiana and comprise the nation’s largest yellow perch farm with an initial capacity of less than 100,000 pounds of fish per year, and ultimately exceeding 9 million pounds per year.  It is Bell Aquaculture’s mission to provide a consistent uninterrupted, year-round supply of yellow perch, with its great taste reputation; build partnerships with restaurants and individuals whose memories of yellow perch continue unabated, always hoping this fish will return to their menus and dinner plates; supply those who truly appreciate the great qualities of yellow perch; and build life long partners in resurrecting the great experience of tasting yellow perch on a consistent basis.

Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens)

Q. Why yellow perch?

A. Yellow perch is one of the most popular of all North American pan fish. It has a mild, sweet flavor with firm white flesh and low fat levels making it a favorite in residential and commercial kitchens alike. Not to be confused with white perch or rock perch, yellow perch is usually only available a few months out of the year. Overfishing, loss of habitat, pollution, and competition from invasive non-native species have reduced the commercial catch to less than 20 percent of its historic highs—an 80 percent reduction.

Q:  Is there a difference in taste between wild-caught and farm-raised perch?
A:  No.  Several studies have shown that there is no taste difference.

Q:  Does Bell Aquaculture fish contain any mercury?
A:  No.  Unlike wild caught perch, Bell controls the environment of its product and can ensure that no toxins, including mercury, are in the fish.