Since 1871 the National Fish Hatchery system has been at work improving recreational fishing and restoring aquatic species that are in decline, at risk, and are important to the health of our aquatic systems. Across the country the network of National Fish Hatcheries work with states and Tribes to conserve, restore and enhance the fish and aquatic resources of America for future generations.

Location and Contact Information

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      The phone lines at Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery can be unreliable. If you'd like to contact that hatchery, please email the hatchery.

      About Us

      Since 1871 the National Fish Hatchery system has been at work improving recreational fishing and restoring aquatic species that are in decline, at risk, and are important to the health of our aquatic systems. Across the country the network of National Fish Hatcheries work with states and tribes to conserve, restore and enhance the fish and aquatic resources of America for future generations. 

      Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery has raised sportfish for distribution throughout the American Southwest since its establishment in 1938. Although the mission has changed numerous times since our beginning, the dedication of past and current staff to producing quality sportfish that benefit the American public has not. Over the years, the hatchery has added additional roles including acting as the only refuge for the federally listed Clear Creek gambusia and, beginning in 2017, researching cultural production methods for six central Texas freshwater mussels. 

      Our Species

      Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery currently rears channel catfish to meet Tribal trust commitments. Depending on environmental conditions in the receiving locations (the Southwest is prone for fires and drought) production ranges from 60,000 to 100,000 ten to thirteen-inch channel catfish annually. These fish are distributed to 10 Southwestern Native American Tribes in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. 

      Projects and Research

      National Fish Hatcheries raise fish and other aquatic species – like crayfish and mussels - to help restore and sustain important fish and other aquatic species for the benefit of the American people. Freshwater mussels play very important roles in our rivers and lakes filtering the water and creating habitat for fish and aquatic insects fish like to eat. With declining fish populations and declining freshwater mussel populations becoming prevalent across the world, fish hatchery operations are important than ever.