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Return to Nashua National Fish Hatchery

Projects and Research

Updated August 24, 2026

Our hatchery raises a variety of species to stock the many waterbodies of New England. These species include Atlantic and landlocked salmon, brook trout, American shad, and round whitefish. You can learn more about the work we're doing with each species here!

Atlantic salmon at the Nashua National Fish Hatchery

Atlantic salmon are endangered. Although, they once were abundant throughout New England rivers, they are presently only found in rivers in Maine. They are anadromous, meaning they spend most of their life in the ocean, but migrate back to freshwater rivers where they were hatched to spawn. Read more about our work with Atlantic salmon.

Landlocked Atlantic salmon at the Nashua National Fish Hatchery

Landlocked Atlantic salmon are salmon that have been separated or landlocked from the Atlantic Ocean for decades, such as those found in Lake Champlain and inland lakes in New Hampshire. They are a popular species among recreational anglers. Read more about our work with landlocked Atlantic salmon.

American shad at the Nashua National Fish Hatchery

American shad is the largest herring found in North America, growing up to two feet long and up to six pounds in weight. American shad can be found along the Atlantic coast, from Florida all the way up to Canada. Like the Atlantic salmon, American shad are also anadromous. Read more about our work with American shad.

Round whitefish at the Nashua National Fish Hatchery

The round whitefish is a salmonid species, which is state-listed as “threatened” in New Hampshire. There are currently two round whitefish populations found in New Hampshire waterbodies: Newfound Lake, and Upper Connecticut River. Read more about our work with round whitefish.

Brook trout at the Nashua National Fish Hatchery

Brook trout are a colorful salmonid, native to New Hampshire streams. Every year, several hundred brook trout are raised at our hatchery for donation to local fishing derbies, outreach, and educational events. Stocked brook trout average 1-2 pounds in weight. Read more

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