Fish management students were in line for prize catches during a survey at Coole Acres Fishery and Fish Hatchery in Nantwich.
The Reaseheath College students spent a practical session investigating species and size of population of fish in the specimen pool.
The scale of the haul was soon apparent with the capture of more than 500lbs of fish, the biggest individual weighing in at 18lbs.
Most were large carp with a handful of smaller roach.
All the fish received a health check and were returned to the pool.
It was the first time the group had used seine netting to catch fish – a system which relies on good teamwork and communication.
The students carry out weekly practical sessions at regional businesses and wildlife sites but this was their first visit to Coole Acres.
Course leader Peter Bryan said: “It’s important our students learn practical skills and spend time in industry on work experience.
“These are the skills which employers look for and helps our students when they are moving on into employment.”
Reaseheath’s fish management course launched this year and has 14 students who are hoping to work for the Environment Agency or into the management of commercial fish farms.
Student Tom Wagstaff said: “We learned a lot from our visit and really improved our skills as the day progressed.
“Although it was cold and we were out in heavy rain we had a great time and we can’t wait to go again!”
Students have also been working with Greenspaces South Cheshire, carrying out revetment improvement and coppicing trees on a tributary of the River Weaver.
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