Fish and Aquatic Conservation
We work to conserve America's aquatic resources for present and future generations. (Photo: Larry Jernigan/USFWS)
We work with our partners and engage the public, using a science-based approach, to conserve, restore
and enhance fish and other aquatic resources for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Recent News
Get Out!
September 2018
This Saturday, September 22, and enjoy the great outdoors by celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day and National Public Lands Day. Visit the websites for information about each day or to find events taking place near you.
More information on fishing and hunting.
Let's Go Fishing, Catch the Fun!
Fishing on a National Fish Hatchery
Purchasing your fishing license
From the Region
Genoa National Fish Hatchery First Release of Salamander Mussel
BY NATHAN ECKERT AND MEGAN BRADLEY, GENOA NFH
In June and July, mussel biologists from Genoa National Fish Hatchery (NFH) released over 1,700 sub-adult Salamander mussels in the Chippewa River of Wisconsin. This is believed to be the first release of captively reared sub-adult (taggable size) Salamander mussels. It has been a long and winding road that led to this stocking, beginning back in 2013.
The Salamander mussel is the only mussel species known to transform on a non-fish host. The mudpuppy, a large salamander, has been identified as the host animal best suited for propagation of the Salamander mussel. The first step in the process was acquiring adult muduppies to serve as hosts, and we found a source of animals large enough to serve as broodstock back in 2013. Since that time we’ve been able to spawn them in captivity and rear juvenile mudpuppies to serve as our hosts for propagation efforts in the future.