When I first got into aquaponics, I quickly realized that choosing the right fish wasn’t just a minor detail — it was the foundation of the whole system. The type of fish you raise determines how efficiently your plants grow, how stable your setup stays, and how much maintenance you’ll deal with. In the U.S., we’re lucky to have a wide variety of species suited to different climates, system sizes, and skill levels.
But with so many options, it can be tough to figure out where to start. Some fish thrive in warm backyard setups, while others prefer cooler, shaded environments. Some are easygoing and forgiving for beginners; others demand precise water conditions. After learning through trial, error, and a few soggy mistakes, I’ve rounded up ten of the best fish for aquaponics systems in the U.S. — each with its unique strengths and quirks.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Fish
Before diving into the list, it helps to understand what makes one fish species more suitable than another. Water temperature is probably the biggest factor. Warm-water fish like tilapia or catfish grow quickly in southern states, while cold-water species like trout are perfect for northern climates. If your system is indoors or temperature-controlled, you’ll have more flexibility.
Next, think about growth rate and size. Faster-growing fish produce nutrients (through their waste) more quickly, feeding your plants efficiently. However, larger fish may require bigger tanks and stronger filtration systems. Finally, consider feeding habits and compatibility. Omnivorous fish usually adapt best because they can handle a mix of pellets and natural food from the system, while aggressive species might need to be raised alone.
And don’t forget local regulations. Some states restrict certain fish — for example, tilapia is banned or requires permits in parts of the U.S. A quick call to your local fish and wildlife office can save you headaches later on.
10 Best Fish for Aquaponics in the US?
1. Tilapia
Tilapia is often the “poster child” of aquaponics, and for good reason. These fish are incredibly hardy, forgiving of mistakes, and fast-growing. They thrive in warm water (75–85°F) and tolerate fluctuating pH levels. I remember starting my first system with tilapia and being amazed at how quickly they adapted — even when I made rookie errors with water changes.
Their diet is simple — they’ll eat just about anything, from commercial pellets to vegetable scraps. Plus, they produce plenty of waste, which your plants will absolutely love. Tilapia’s high ammonia output makes them a nutrient powerhouse for leafy greens like lettuce, basil, and spinach.
The main catch? In some U.S. states, tilapia is regulated due to its potential to overpopulate natural waterways. If you live in one of those regions, check your local laws before getting started. Otherwise, they’re a fantastic choice for beginners and seasoned aquaponic growers alike.
2. Trout
If you live in a cooler climate, trout might be your best bet. They thrive in water temperatures between 50–60°F and love well-oxygenated systems. They’re a bit more sensitive to changes in water quality compared to tilapia, but once you dial in the right environment, they grow quickly and produce delicious, flaky meat.
Trout are also excellent for winter systems or northern states where maintaining warm water would be costly. Their need for cooler temperatures means you can pair them with plants that prefer mild conditions — think spinach, kale, and other cool-season crops.
The biggest challenge with trout is keeping the water clean and oxygen levels high. I’ve seen systems fail because of even small lapses in aeration. But for those who enjoy a little extra attention to detail, trout can be both rewarding and sustainable.
3. Catfish
Catfish are one of the most resilient and easy-to-manage species for aquaponics. They can handle a wide range of temperatures (70–80°F) and water conditions without much fuss. They grow large, which makes them great if you plan to harvest for food, and they’re known for their mild, meaty flavor.
What makes catfish particularly appealing is their tolerance for low oxygen and slightly murky water — conditions that would stress out many other species. They also do well in mixed systems and are not aggressive toward other fish.
Feeding catfish is straightforward since they’ll eat sinking pellets, worms, and plant-based foods. Their nutrient output is strong enough to support a thriving garden of vegetables and herbs. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance fish that gives back generously, catfish are a solid pick.
4. Bluegill
Bluegill is an underrated gem in the aquaponics world. Native to North America, they’re perfectly adapted to U.S. climates and are legal almost everywhere. They tolerate water temperatures from 60–80°F and are hardy enough to survive beginner mistakes.
Bluegill are fun to watch and easy to feed. They eat insects, pellets, and small crustaceans — basically, anything that fits in their mouths. Their waste output is steady, providing consistent nutrients for plants like lettuce, basil, and mint.
They don’t grow as fast as tilapia or catfish, but their adaptability and peaceful temperament make them ideal for community tanks. If you want a system that’s both productive and visually calming, bluegill might just be your match.
5. Koi
Koi bring both beauty and practicality to an aquaponic setup. These colorful fish are known for their resilience and long lifespan, often living for decades with proper care. They’re not typically raised for food, but they’re excellent nutrient producers for plants.
Koi thrive in a wide temperature range (59–77°F) and are resistant to many common fish diseases. I’ve always found them to be peaceful and enjoyable to keep, adding a touch of serenity to outdoor systems. Their slow, graceful movement makes them a centerpiece for decorative backyard ponds that double as food gardens.
The main consideration with koi is space. They can grow quite large, so you’ll need a reasonably sized tank or pond. But once established, they’re almost effortless to care for and bring a unique aesthetic charm to your aquaponic setup.
6. Goldfish
Goldfish are the classic beginner’s choice — cheap, hardy, and easy to find. They tolerate a wide range of conditions, thriving in water between 65–75°F. If you’re new to aquaponics, goldfish are the perfect “test species” while you learn to balance water chemistry and filtration.
They’re great for ornamental systems, small indoor setups, or classrooms. Goldfish produce plenty of waste to feed plants but don’t require complex diets. You can feed them flakes, pellets, or small vegetable scraps.
While they aren’t edible, they serve an important role in teaching the basics of aquaponics. Once your system stabilizes, you can always transition to an edible species like tilapia or perch.
7. Perch (Yellow or Silver)
Perch are well-suited for northern states where the climate is moderate to cool. They thrive in 65–75°F water and prefer clean, oxygen-rich environments. Their mild, white meat makes them a sought-after food fish in aquaponic setups.
Perch are relatively calm and can live comfortably with other non-aggressive fish. Their waste production is consistent, which supports strong plant growth. They do take a little longer to mature, but the wait is worth it for their quality yield.
Because they’re a native species in many parts of the U.S., perch are easy to source and legal almost everywhere. They’re a good balance between ease of care and rewarding harvest — perfect for intermediate growers.
8. Barramundi
Barramundi is a warm-water fish best suited for southern climates or indoor systems with temperature control. They grow incredibly fast — often reaching harvest size in just six months — and produce a delicious, buttery white meat.
However, they’re not for beginners. Barramundi need consistent water temperatures between 78–86°F and excellent water quality. They can be a bit aggressive toward smaller fish, so they’re best kept in single-species systems.
If you’re ready for a bit of a challenge, Barramundi can turn your aquaponics system into a professional-grade operation. I’ve seen growers in Texas and Florida get fantastic results with these fish, especially when paired with heat-loving plants like tomatoes and peppers.
9. Bass (Largemouth or Smallmouth)
Bass are a favorite among sport fishers, but they also make great candidates for aquaponics. They thrive in water temperatures between 60–80°F and adapt well to large tank systems. Their growth rate is moderate, and they produce firm, flavorful meat.
Bass do require a protein-rich diet and a bit of patience since they mature slower than tilapia or catfish. But they’re highly rewarding once they reach harvest size. Their steady waste production supports a healthy balance of nutrients for your plants.
They can be territorial, so if you’re planning a mixed tank, monitor them closely. In a single-species setup, though, they’re impressive performers with excellent long-term potential.
10. Carp
Carp have been used in aquaculture for thousands of years, and they remain one of the most sustainable fish options. They’re incredibly hardy, able to tolerate low oxygen, variable temperatures, and less-than-perfect water conditions.
Their feeding habits are versatile — carp consume both plant and animal matter, which makes them easy to feed. They produce rich nutrient waste, perfect for large-scale systems or setups focused on leafy greens and fruiting plants.
While carp aren’t as popular in the U.S. for eating as in other parts of the world, they’re an excellent option for eco-friendly and high-yield aquaponic systems. They’re practically indestructible, making them perfect for those who want low maintenance and long-term sustainability.
Tips for Managing Fish Health
No matter which species you choose, maintaining fish health should always come first. Regularly test your water for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH levels. A stable environment keeps your fish happy and your plants thriving.
Avoid overfeeding — uneaten food quickly turns into harmful waste. It’s better to feed smaller portions more often and watch how quickly your fish eat. Oxygenation is another big deal, especially in warm systems where oxygen levels drop faster.
Finally, quarantine any new fish before adding them to your main tank. It’s an easy step that can save your entire setup from disease or parasites. Healthy fish mean a healthy, balanced aquaponic ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Aquaponics has taught me that balance is everything — and the fish you choose set the tone for that balance. From hardy tilapia to graceful koi, each species brings its own rhythm to the ecosystem. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer; it all depends on your climate, goals, and comfort level.
If you’re just getting started, go for forgiving species like goldfish, tilapia, or bluegill. Once you’ve mastered the basics, experiment with trout or barramundi to take your system to the next level.
In the end, aquaponics isn’t just about growing plants or raising fish — it’s about learning how the two work together in harmony. And when you find the right fish for your setup, that harmony becomes something truly beautiful.