The National Fish Hatchery System is a global leader in conservation aquaculture. Across the United States, 71 national fish hatcheries raise millions of fish and aquatic wildlife each year to enhance state and tribally managed recreational fisheries, boost local economic development, fulfill tribal trust responsibilities, recover threatened and endangered species, and prevent at-risk species from becoming endangered.
What We Do
Our Services
In 2025, national fish hatcheries distributed 231 million fish and aquatic wildlife to support conservation.
FY 2025 Distribution Breakdown
- 128 million – Fish or aquatic wildlife stocked by national fish hatcheries.
- 103 million – Fish or eggs transferred to conservation partners, including states and tribes, or to support future release.
Latest Stories and Topics
Stories
Recreation
WASHINGTON – The Department of the Interior today announced the largest expansion of hunting and sport fishing opportunities in the history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. With this action, more than 92 million acres, or over 95% of National Wildlife Refuge System lands, are available for...
History and Culture
Small jobs don’t exist at Tishomingo National Fish Hatchery, and in some cases we mean that literally. The hatchery in Oklahoma, where the flags visited in April 2026, raises paddlefish and alligator gar, two of the largest freshwater fish in the United States.
History and Culture
In March 2026, the flags visited Neosho National Fish Hatchery, the oldest continuously operational federal fish hatchery.
History and Culture
Nestled along the banks of the St. Johns River in Putnam County, Florida, Welaka National Fish Hatchery celebrated America’s 250th anniversary by opening a nature trail to the historic Beecher Springs.
History and Culture
Rainbow trout rank among the top sport fish in North America, and stocking them is one of the missions of Willow Beach National Fish Hatchery, where the flags visited in February 2026. Since 1995, it has also raised native endangered razorback sucker and bonytail chub.
Habitat Restoration
These days, conservation partners are experimenting with a new way to create habitat by installing “floating wetlands” in ponds, lakes and rivers. Buoyant structures that support aquatic vegetation – essentially non-stationary islands – serve a dual purpose. The roots and other submerged parts of...
