Fish Hatcheries and Trout Parks
Missouri hatcheries and trout parks not only support our state’s great fishing, they’re also fascinating places to visit. Some feature visitor centers with displays, films and exhibits. Several have tour schedules or will accept appointments for special tours. Check under "Related Information" for more information about specific hatcheries and trout parks.
Cold-Water Hatcheries and Trout Parks
Missouri’s trout hatcheries are located at each of Missouri’s four trout parks and on Lake Taneycomo. They provide high-quality trout fishing on cold-water streams in Missouri. Trout Parks at Bennett Spring State Park near Lebanon, Montauk State Park near Salem and Roaring River State Park near Cassville are operated in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources. Maramec Spring Park near St. James stocks catchable-size trout nightly from March 1 through Oct. 31. It is operated in conjunction with The James Foundation. Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery, Missouri’s largest trout hatchery, is located near the upper portion of Lake Taneycomo near Branson.
Warm-Water Hatcheries
Missouri’s has five hatcheries that produce warm- and cool-water fish. Lost Valley Hatchery near Warsaw is one of the nation’s most advanced and largest public hatcheries. Lost Valley is known for raising paddlefish and white bass/striped bass hybrids. Chesapeake hatchery near Mount Vernon warms its water to get catfish to spawn early, producing 12- to 14-inch catfish in one growing season. Blind Pony Hatchery near Sweet Springs is known for producing the endangered pallid sturgeon, which is being used to restore populations in the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Hunnewell Hatchery raises hybrid sunfish, which grow fast and large and are used in kids’ fishing clinics. Indian Trail Hatchery near Salem produces largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish for farm pond stocking.
