About Us

Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery is located at river mile 167 on the Columbia River in Underwood, Washington. It is known as one of the largest anadromous fish production facilities in the Columbia River Basin. The hatchery is a mitigation facility, meaning we make up for habitat losses associated with hydro-electric projects on the Columbia River. The hatchery is a water conservation facility. Water is reused through a complex series of biological filters that enhance water quality while minimizing the need for a large fresh water supply. The hatchery is mechanically complex and requires the use of numerous pumps, filters, and motor control centers to enhance operations. 

What We Do

Tule Fall Chinook salmon are native to the lower Columbia River and its tributaries downstream of The Dalles Dam. This is the native stock inhabiting the White Salmon River located just upstream of the hatchery. 

Thebroodstockbroodstock
The reproductively mature adults in a population that breed (or spawn) and produce more individuals (offspring or progeny).

Learn more about broodstock objective at Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery is to collect and spawn 8,000 adults annually, with an on-station release of approximately 12.5 smolts into the Columbia River each spring.

Our Organization

A man is fishing in a boat with three young girls. The kids are excitedly pulling a fish out of the water.
Healthy fisheries and waters are the foundation of America’s outdoor traditions and give us the freedom to fish, boat, and enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation. The Fish and Aquatic Conservation programs work with states, tribes, and communities to provide a comprehensive approach to freshwater...
Program
Falls Church,VA

Our Species

Tule Fall Chinook salmon are native to this part of the Columbia River. They are the early fall Chinook salmon, returning to the hatchery in late August through September. 

Because of the migration pattern of the adult fish, this stock is a major contributor to the commercial, tribal, and recreational harvest along the Washington coast and in the Columbia River. 

Visit Us

Where We're Located

Spring Creek is located about 65 miles east of Portland, OR. You can reach the hatchery by traveling east on I-84 about 64 miles to Hood River, OR. Take exit 64 and cross the Hood River/White Salmon toll bridge ($2.00 toll each way). Turn left onto State Highway 14 and travel about 3 miles. You will cross over the White Salmon River. The hatchery will be on your left at about mile marker 61.

When To See The Fish 

Salmon return to their birthplace at varying times of the year, depending on species. At Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery that is the end of August. We open our fish ladder the last week of August, adults begin entering the hatchery right away. We have adults on station for viewing through September. Juvenile salmon are in the outdoor raceways January - April.

Latest News

Two women hold long wooden poles with fish carcasses at the end. They stand in a marshy area. Two people in the background look on.
Our People
Inspired by her grandfather and love for the outdoors, Cheri Anderson followed her childhood dream to become a park ranger and built upon her interpretive background to create celebrated educational programs in the Pacific Northwest for the Columbia River Gorge National Fish Hatchery Complex.
A smallmouth bass swims near some woody debris. The fish is greenish in color with a white belly.
Recreation
For fishermen, fall represents more than just a change in weather or wardrobe. It’s a season that demands a new approach, a time to fine-tune your techniques and adjust to the evolving habits of fish as they prepare for the colder months ahead.
2025-2026 Junior Duck Stamp featuring a northern shoveler floating on water.
Get Involved
Do you love conservation and want to know how to help? Consider participating in the annual Junior Duck Stamp competition!
Male wood duck sitting on teal-green water with ripples, facing right with an orange bill, green head and rusty chest
Get Involved
Growing up I always doodled. I scribbled on everything and everything I could get my hands on (even things I shouldn’t, like my bedroom walls). It was how I was able to express myself and share the world through my eyes.
Trumpeter swans taking off from the waters of DeSoto Lake with ducks in the background.
Wildlife Wonders
The Christmas Bird Count is the nation’s longest running citizen science project. The annual bird survey takes place between December 14 and January 5.
A graphic of a light blue sky with puffy clouds. A green highway sign hangs from the top and reads "The Great American Hatchery Road Trip." At the bottom, a fish drives a blue car along a road toward a brown sign with the USFWS logo and text that reads "Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery."
Recreation
As you start planning your summer road trip, why not consider swinging by one of the oldest hatcheries in America? Our National Fish Hatchery System has something to entertain everyone in your family, so check out these great locations for your summer of fun!

Get Involved

Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature or share your love of the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. National fish hatcheries provide many opportunities for you to help your community and fish and wildlife by doing what you love. National fish hatcheries partner with volunteers, youth groups, landowners, neighbors and residents of both urban and rural communities to make a lasting difference. There are opportunities for everyone to get involved!

We enjoy having volunteers at our hatchery! We offer both daily and long-term opportunities. The hatcheries provide local individuals the opportunity to volunteer by assisting hatchery staff with special events such as our Annual Open House or Kid's Fishing Day, fish production, and light maintenance activities. All volunteers compliment our hatchery programs and offer valuable support. To volunteer, contactjennifer_rowlen@fws.gov, or call Jennifer at (509) 493-1730.

Location and Contact Information