Little White Salmon National Fish Hatchery

Hunting

Little White Salmon National Fish Hatchery is the oldest federal hatchery on the Columbia River, established in 1896. The hatchery is on the scenic Little White Salmon River, which empties into Drano Lake, one of the most popular recreational salmon fisheries in Washington. The hatchery...

Fishing

Spring and up-river bright fall Chinook salmon produced at the Little White Salmon National Fish Hatchery contributes significantly to the salmon harvested by sport fishers in the Columbia River, particularly in Drano Lake. Spring Chinook adults typically enter Drano Lake during late...

Wildlife Watching

The hatchery is located in the beautiful Little White Salmon canyon. Looking for local wildlife is a wonderful thing to do! We see a variety of mammals including black bears, mink, otter, and even the occasional mountain lion. Also keep your eyes open looking up for an array of...

Picnicking

The hatchery offers many opportunities for a great picnic spot. Picnic tables are located at various location along our entrance road and inside the hatchery proper.

Photography

The hatchery is located in the scenic Little White Salmon River canyon which provides amazing photography opportunities. The Wild and Scenic Little White Salmon River offers a glimpse of world class kayakers coming down the river, serene river views, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing...

 Education Programs

We welcome groups of all sizes to the hatchery! Fall is a great time to bring school groups for a visit to see adult upriver bright fall Chinook salmon, view spawning operations, and better understand the role hatcheries play. Spring Chinook salmon return to the hatchery...

Fish Viewing

A walk from the lower to upper hatchery provides a wonderful opportunity to see salmon in a natural environment. We have two viewing decks to get a closer look at them! Salmon spawn naturally in the Little White Salmon River, and you could be lucky enough to see it. Juvenile salmon...