Water used for hauling should be of good quality, preferably well water. Since fish are destined for sale, hauling aids such as salt are not recommended. Ice may be added to cool the water, reducing fishes' metabolic rate and making them easier to handle. A producer may have to make his or her own ice to insure that it is not made with chlorinated water. Most commercially available ice is made from municipal water that contains chlorine.
Several options are available.
Small 12 volt agitators that run off the vehicle battery can be used on small loads. Larger quantities of fish may need air or oxygen diffuser systems. With any of these methods of holding fish, it is advisable to start at recommended stocking rates and plan on selling the bulk of the fish quickly. By reducing the quantity of fish within the first few hours, the remaining fish have a better chance of survival. Fish that taste bad will ruin a business.