There are two primary methods for catching eels: netting and draining. In larger ponds, netting is commonly used, while in smaller fish ponds or concrete enclosures, water is drained directly, and the eels are collected using specialized eel cages.
When using the netting method, feed is placed in a designated area to attract the eels. Once most of the eels have gathered around the feeding spot, a net is set up around the food area to trap them. The captured eels are then transferred into a long collection box. This box should be positioned on the side of the pond for easy access and installation. An aerator should also be placed 3 to 5 meters away from the box to ensure proper oxygen circulation. When the eels are placed into the box, water flows through it continuously, maintaining good water quality and preventing suffocation due to overcrowding. Additionally, the nets should be regularly pulled to keep the eels moving, which helps prevent them from getting stuck at the bottom and dying.
During summer and autumn, when temperatures are high, eels should be cooled using ice water to maintain a temperature between 15°C and 20°C. This cooling process significantly reduces their activity, making them easier to handle during sorting. It also helps prevent injuries and speeds up the sorting process.
Sorting is typically done manually. After cooling, the eels are placed into a collection tray, and a small sliding door on the side of the tray is opened to allow them to swim slowly. Operators sort the eels according to the required size specifications. Each group is guided through separate channels into pre-set cages. To help the eels move toward the cages, the divider should be slightly angled toward the pond.
Several important considerations must be taken into account during the handling and breeding process:
1. Eel farming and handling should ideally take place on cloudy or rainy days, as the low temperature and high humidity reduce the risk of injury. If working on sunny summer days, it’s best to do so early in the morning or late in the evening, avoiding direct sunlight.
2. Sorting should aim for uniform size, especially when preparing for export. Operators can use sample eels that meet the specifications as a reference for comparison.
3. All sorting operations should be carried out with patience and care, using gentle movements to avoid damaging the eels’ skin.
4. After stocking, disinfection is generally not required unless there are visible wounds, signs of disease, or if the eels were transported over long distances. In such cases, sulfa drugs are usually added to the feed for 3 to 5 days to prevent infections.
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