Ace Aquatec builds easy-to-move-and-use stunner for Canadian trout market
'Skid-mounted' machine has greatly improved portability and usability
Dundee-based fish farming technology supplier Ace Aquatec will launch a “skid-mounted” version of its in-water electric trout stunner to the North American market this week.
The A-HSU stunner, which is permanently mounted in a frame, or ‘skid’, that makes it easier to transport as a unit, will be debuted at the 2025 Ontario Aquaculture conference at Fleming College in Lindsay, Canada, on Thursday.
Suitable for a wide range of freshwater production species, the first of its kind skid-mounted stunner’s portability and usability across a range of terrain, lake or pond side, is greatly improved.
Ace Aquatec said the system complies with stringent regulations set by Canada’s National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC) under the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Farmed Salmonids and approved by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Agribusiness (OMAFA).
Capable of processing up to 15 tonnes of trout per hour, the stunner is highly adaptable and designed for use in various harvesting environments, including recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), while adhering to strict biosecurity protocols.
Arlen Taylor, director of operations at Cedar Crest, one of the first trout farmers in Canada to adopt a humane stunning system from Ace Aquatec, said: “We were looking for an option for our farm that would get everyone on board in our industry, not only because of the strict welfare requirements but because it’s the right thing to do.
“Ace Aquatec’s in-water electric stunning system provided us with a reliable, efficient and welfare friendly solution that ensures fish are stunned instantly and humanely, reducing stress and improving overall product quality. Adapting the system to be mounted on a skid base is a perfect solution to meeting the needs of farmers across Canada and elsewhere.
“As the industry moves toward higher welfare standards, having a proven technology that can be adapted to the needs of Canadian producers gives them confidence that they’re meeting best practices.”
Better welfare, better fish
Ben Perry, Ace Aquatec’s head of sales, said bringing the trout stunner to Canada was a significant milestone for Ace Aquatec and a major step forward for humane aquaculture practices in the region.
“The industry is increasingly prioritising fish welfare, and our technology provides a solution that meets these high standards while enhancing operational efficiency and employee safety for farmers,” said Perry.
“Showcasing this system at the Ontario Aquaculture conference is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate how we can help producers achieve high-quality fish while adhering to strict welfare requirements.”
After successfully implementing both land-based and vessel-based in-water electric stunners across multiple regions, Ace Aquatec said it is now focusing on the North American market, driven by the recent best management practices document published by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Agribusiness (OMAFA).
