Two years before actual stocking, fish management biologists advise the manager of Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery of the size and number of rainbow trout that are needed to stock each reservoir. Several factors are used to determine these needs: time of year, size of the reservoir, anticipated angler use; and available food supplies. The Hatchery Manager then develops a program for raising fish to stock in each reservoir.
Rainbow trout eggs are received for hatching at Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery from various sources throughout the United States. After the eggs hatch, the young fish are placed into concrete tanks in the Hatchery building and fed special trout diets. Feeding is first done manually, then automatic feeders take over. When the fish are 1-1/2 to 2 inches in length, they are moved to outside raceways where they grow to the proper size for stocking.
In fiscal year 2000, Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery produced and distributed over 2 million trout and stocked over 80 different water areas in Colorado and New Mexico. Over 200,000 angler days of recreational fishing in Colorado and New Mexico valued at over $10 million are a result of the stocking efforts!
Currently, the hatchery produces trout to fill needs throughout Colorado and New Mexico. These fish help to replenish and encourage sustainable trout populations and provide angling opportunities for recreational users like you.
