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Today would be our first full day in the mountains, and with a better idea of what stock breeders had, we could plan our day better. Stocks change rapidly at this time of year, and there is always a rush when a breeder returns from a mud pond with new stock. Luckily our agent spends time in the evening calling breeders and checking stocks for us, saving on wasted journeys as travelling between the different areas wastes valuable time if you don't manage to find good, saleable koi.
Our first stop of the day was a brief one to get some better photos of the Sanke from the day before. The fish was uncooperative though so debatable whether the picture is any better!
The next stop was actually by chance rather than good planning. We were heading for Otsuka but he wasn't quite ready for us, but there was a chance to visit Oya while we waited. This turned out a good move as I picked up 4 Sanke. Oya Sanke are very desirable, and do well on the Japanese show circuit. Because of this the prices tend to be high, especially for females. We opted for some males with very strong bodies. Sometimes you have to make a little sacrifice for the greater good.
We wrapped up at Oya in perfect time, as we strolled in to Otsuka just as he arrived back. Otsuka breeds many varieties, historically Matsuba, Asagi, and Kage Utsuri would be the better examples here, but now you will lots of assorted fish, in various sizes and qualities. I ended up picking quite a mixed bag here, not what I had in mind exactly but that's how it works. The Kohaku were a pleasant surprise, he is using Dainichi parents for his Go Sanke.
After 3 successful visits we had a quick stop for lunch, using the time to check a with a couple of breeders what they had available and checking they were alright for us to visit this afternoon. The agent had said Sakazume might be good for a few items on the wish list, particularly Ai Goromo, which the farm is most famous for. Sakazume is farm I have never bought from directly. Instead of boxes of Goromo I walked out with a pair of Gin Rin Matsukawabake as well as a few others.
The next stop was Shinoda, where you will find Doitsu Go Sanke, Gin Rin Showa, and Hi Utsuri. In the side room of the fish house you will see Hi Utsuri well over 90cm. As well as great koi, there is a well stocked fridge for refreshments and WiFi, handy as mobile phone reception can be hit and miss in the mountains. Based on our sales last year and our current stock, I decided not to buy any more doitsu fish but I did select 4 lovely Hi Utsuri, with nice dark red.
The sun was setting, and although a little behind schedule, we headed out for some tea happy, and feeling like the day was a success.
For more information on any of the koi purchased today, please check out the New Koi for Sale section on our website. I hope you enjoy the blog :-)
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