Idaho Vacation: Visit a Fish Hatchery

Idaho has been described as a "Land of Opportunity" for sport fishing. This report focuses on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game operated hatcheries that raise many of the fish for the "catch". With nineteen hatcheries scattered across the state,they make an excellent things to do for your Idaho vacation.

Although operated by IDFG, many of the hatcheries are owned by other entities including Idaho Power Company. Twelve of the hatcheries raise fish that stay in fresh waters all their lives with the remaining hatcheries raising salmon and steelhead that spend part of their lives in the ocean. Licence fees fund the hatcheries that raise fresh water fish and Idaho Power Company and others fund the hatcheries that raise salmon and steelhead as mitigation for the construction of dams on the Columbia and Snake Rivers.

All of the hatcheries welcome visitors. Facilities at each hatchery vary but many have areas for picnics and or camping and some have family or youth fishing waters on site or in the immediate vicinity. Some have viewing ponds where large fish representing several species are present, including Idaho's largest fish, the White Sturgeon. Depending on the land area at the hatchery, some also have hiking trails for bird and other wildlife viewing. Many hatcheries have educational exhibits and welcome larger groups with advance notice. All hatcheries are open year round but have different activities and fish available during various parts of the year.

An excellent web site provides great information for each hatchery. Go to fishandgame.idaho.gov/fish/hatcheries.  This lists the details for each hatchery with driving directions, hours, facilities and all else you need to know.  The main Fish and Game website is fishandgame.idaho.gov.  This site has information about all Fish and Game programs, seasons, regulations, etc. 

Whether or not you enjoy fishing, you are sure to enjoy a visit to an Idaho fish hatchery.  Children will especially appreciate a break from travel to watch the fish.  Enjoy this Idaho vacation.