Fisheries and Seafood in a Landlocked Borough
Leicestershire is about as far from the sea as you can get in England, yet fish plays a big part in local life. Fish and chip shops in Oadby and Wigston are much-loved institutions, restaurants serve fresh seafood, and supermarkets stock salmon, cod and prawns every day. Meanwhile, anglers from the borough head to reservoirs, lakes and canals, including the Grand Union Canal that runs through Wigston, for coarse and game fishing.
Behind all of this is a network of fishery companies: aquaculture producers, seafood processors, foodservice suppliers and managed inland fisheries. This guide highlights ten fishery companies that serve Oadby and Wigston, either by supplying the seafood on local plates or by providing fishing opportunities nearby.
Why Sustainable Seafood Matters
Overfishing and environmental impacts have made sustainability a priority for the seafood industry. Certification schemes for wild-caught and farmed fish help consumers and businesses make responsible choices. Fish and chip shops and restaurants in the borough are increasingly asked by customers about where their fish comes from.
The Top 10 Fishery Companies Serving Oadby and Wigston
1. Rutland Water Fly Fishing
Rutland Water, managed by Anglian Water, is one of Europe's largest man-made lakes and one of England's premier trout fisheries. Located just east of Leicestershire, it attracts anglers from Oadby and Wigston and beyond. Its fly fishing facilities, boats and stocked trout make it a destination for game anglers.
2. Eyebrook Trout Fishery
Eyebrook Reservoir, on the Leicestershire and Rutland border near Caldecott, is a well-known stillwater trout fishery. Its natural setting and quality fish make it popular with fly anglers. It offers an accessible fishing experience within a short drive of the borough.
3. Direct Seafoods
Direct Seafoods is one of the UK's leading foodservice seafood suppliers, delivering fresh and frozen fish to restaurants, hotels and caterers. It is known for sustainable sourcing and quality. Restaurants across the Midlands rely on its regional distribution.
4. M and J Seafood
M and J Seafood, part of the Brakes group, supplies fresh and frozen seafood to caterers across the UK. Its range includes fish, shellfish and prepared seafood. Its nationwide delivery network makes it accessible to restaurants in Oadby and Wigston.
5. New England Seafood
New England Seafood supplies sustainably sourced fish to major retailers and foodservice businesses. It is recognised for its commitment to responsible fishing practices. Supermarket shoppers in the borough may buy its products without knowing it.
6. Young's Seafood
Young's is one of the UK's most famous seafood brands, producing fish fingers, fish fillets and prepared seafood. It has a long history in British fish processing. Many households in Oadby and Wigston enjoy Young's products as a convenient family meal.
7. Mowi Scotland
Mowi is one of the world's largest salmon farming companies and a major producer of Scottish salmon. Its fish is sold through retailers and restaurants across the UK. Scottish salmon is one of the most popular fish choices among local consumers.
8. Scottish Sea Farms
Scottish Sea Farms is a leading producer of farmed salmon, known for its focus on fish health and environmental stewardship. Its salmon supplies major UK retailers. The company invests heavily in innovation to improve sustainability.
9. Loch Duart
Loch Duart is an independent Scottish salmon farmer renowned for its low-density farming methods and premium quality. Its salmon is favoured by top chefs. Restaurants seeking exceptional fish often specify Loch Duart.
10. Lyons Seafoods
Lyons Seafoods specialises in prawns and shellfish, supplying retailers and foodservice businesses. It is known for quality, innovation and responsible sourcing. Its products feature in supermarket ranges and restaurant menus across the region.
How to Choose a Seafood Supplier
For restaurants and fish and chip shops, freshness, consistency and sustainability are key. Ask suppliers about sourcing, certification and traceability. Delivery frequency matters, as fresh fish needs to arrive quickly and be stored correctly.
- Look for recognised sustainability certifications for wild and farmed fish.
- Check cold chain management and delivery reliability.
- Diversify species to reduce pressure on popular stocks.
- Anglers should check permits and rules before fishing local waters.
Trends in the Fishery Industry
Aquaculture continues to grow as wild stocks face pressure, with innovations in fish health, feed and recirculating aquaculture systems. Sustainability and traceability are increasingly demanded by consumers. Alternative species and plant-based seafood are expanding choices. In angling, managed fisheries are investing in habitat improvement and conservation, ensuring healthy fish populations for future generations.
The UK's fish and chip industry is also evolving, with many shops sourcing certified sustainable cod and haddock and offering alternatives to meet changing tastes.
Final Thoughts
Even in landlocked Leicestershire, fishery companies play an important role in the lives of Oadby and Wigston residents. From the trout waters of Rutland Water and Eyebrook to the sustainable seafood suppliers that stock local kitchens, the ten companies above offer quality and expertise. Choose responsibly, and you can enjoy great fish while supporting healthy oceans and waterways.
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