CIFFI Pen Trout Released – New Era in Fisheries Support Begins

WINTERS – CIFFI trout pen rearing program, which kicked off in February, saw the release of over 2000 trout averaging 13-15 inches in length and weighing in at 1½ pounds.  These Eagle Lake strain rainbow trout are well known for their pole bending acrobatics, broom tails and heavy fighting ability.  The CIFFI pens reflect a dedicated effort culminating in a $50,000 dollar investment and a $4,000 annual feed spend to ensure the Berryessa fishery maintains its well-known trophy status. 

The new CIFFI pens, were first deployed in the winter of 2024-2025 and received their first fish in February 2025.  Transitioning the trout from a hatchery style feeding structure; the pens allow the trout to acclimate to the natural food sources in the lake, making them far more likely to survive longer once released into the waters of Lake Berryessa.

A big thank you to Markley Cove for their commitment to daily feedings and to Allan Grossman – CIFFI BOD member- and his crew for continuous support for the duration of the pens this past winter. 

Anglers who are interested in supporting the CIFFI Berryessa pens with a donation, can link to ciffi.org and hit the ‘donate to CIFFI’ button; we offer a secure credit card transaction with all dollars going to support the CIFFI Berryessa Pen Program.