little grassy fish hatchery

All the fish were moved out and there wasn't really anything to see this time of year. But it's still open daily (certain hours I can't remember). The lady there was very courteous on giving us the low down about the facility as well as insight about the surrounding area once we mentioned it was our first time down. She says the 2nd - 3rd week in June is the peak time to visit the hatchery to view fish hatching, as well as the baby channel cats in the tank room (where you can feed them). Can't wait to go back and visit!

Kids had a great time feeding the little catfish and watching the water "boil" up as the fish found the food. We only spent 15 - 20 minutes since we missed all the hatching & eggs that happen in June. We would like to go back next year. As an aside, everyone should love their job as much as the very cool employee who showed us around.

A great way to see fish, some in small, some very large, but all fascinating to watch (even if they are in a man-made environment). This hatchery sits back in a grassy clearing of the Shawnee Forest, wide open and sunny -- a stark contrast to the dark, shady forest which surrounds it. The fish are healthy. Where else can you see huge catfish living in large milk cans in the water? Fish of all kinds are raised here and eventually find homes in one of many lakes in the area. At least until they're caught and eaten. That's why hatcheries are necessary, huh?

Very cool, take tour, call for hours. You could spend a full day in this area with Giant City Park Lodge and trails near by. Kids would love the Hatchery.

Stopped in this with kids and they enjoyed looking into the tanks of small catfish and we also got a fine tour from one of the employees. Look at the record channel cat 45 pounds--- Wow