Top Picks from This Week’s Online Release - Shusui, Ki Utsuri and Hi Utsuri
This week’s release highlights some excellent examples of Shusui and Utsurimono, showcasing both clean traditional traits and some exciting individuality. I have picked a few out and added commentary on what makes each koi stand out, and what to look forward to as they mature.
Six Top Picks From This Week's Online Release Of BKF Koi
1. Shusui
This Shusui displays deep, rich hi (red) extending well above and below the lateral line, giving it a bold, powerful look and a good example of a Hi Shusui. The dorsal zipper line is neat and evenly spaced, running straight down the back with strong blue/black scales. The head is clean with a striking red mask that frames the face beautifully.
Why it stands out: Powerful hi coverage balanced with clean, uniform dorsal scalation. A very classic yet eye-catching Shusui.
2. Shusui
A lighter-based Shusui with more reserved beni along the flanks, which allows the clean bright white ground and bold dorsal zipper to dominate. The red around the gill plates and base of the fins adds delicate accents without overpowering. This koi has a very elegant feel and a frame that suggests graceful development into sansai and beyond.
Why it stands out: Clean shiroji (white) base, neat dorsal line, and understated hi that frames rather than overwhelms.
3. Shusui
This koi carries a very balanced mix of hi (red) and shiroji (white), with the beni (red) forming attractive linear blocks along the flanks. The head pattern is especially distinctive, with a circular red 'maruten' head pattern. The dorsal zipper is tidy, with consistent dark scales. This koi has a pleasing overall flow.
Why it stands out: Distinctive head beni and excellent beni (red) colour along the body.
4. Shusui
The beni is softer and sits neatly along the sides, while the head is clean and free of blemish. The dorsal zipper is one of the tidiest in the group, evenly sized scales forming a textbook line from shoulder to tail.
Why it stands out: Superb dorsal zipper and strong, clean frame — a koi built for future development.
5. Ki Utsuri
This bright Ki Utsuri showcases striking lemon-yellow skin patterned with thick, jet-black sumi. The sumi is already strong and well placed, forming bold contrasts without crowding the yellow base. Ki Utsuri can often be patchy, but here the yellow is consistent and vibrant. The balance between head, shoulders, and tail regions is excellent, promising an impressive appearance as the fish grows.
Why it stands out: Strong sumi paired with consistent, vibrant yellow ground and a great pattern including classic menware (sumi dividing the head)
6. Hi Utsuri
A classic Hi Utsuri with powerful red and black interplay. The beni is thick and uniform, while the sumi overlays in dynamic patches including lightening like areas and also larger blocks wrapping around the body. With its solid frame and vibrant colour, this koi already commands presence.
Why it stands out: Striking red–black balance with excellent motoguro and body conformation.
Closing Thoughts
This release offers a strong collection of Shusui and Utsurimono. Each shusui has its own balance of beni, shiroji, and dorsal zipper quality. With the Hi and Ki Utsuri bringing bold yellow–black and red–black contrasts. This week’s release has plenty that will catch the eye.
For preview videos of these koi, please see this koi blog.
