Life in the Sea

Comparatively little is known about the habits of sea trout in the sea. The length of time spent at sea varies considerably among fish originating from different rivers. It is believed that most sea trout do not migrate far from the coast. Certain stocks may display preferences for certain feeding grounds. However, in most instances, patterns of movement along the coast are thought to be highly variable.

Growth is rapid in the sea. Many fish attain body weights of 0.5-1.5 kg within their first year. Older fish that have spent longer periods at sea may attain weights in excess of 5-10kg.

Sea trout feed on prey items such as small crustaceans, marine worms, sandeels (Ammodytes spp.), sand smelts (Atherina sp), Sprats (Clupea sprattus), juvenile members of the cod family, sticklebacks, sand goby (Pomatoschistus spp.) and terrestrial insects. Larger fish tend to consume larger prey items.

Survival rates in the sea vary considerably. Among maiden fish (i.e. unspawned), survival rates can vary from less than 5% to over 40% per year. Similarly, among older fish that have spawned previously, rates commonly range between 20 and 40%.

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