The Tishomingo National Fish Hatchery (NFH) is one of the largest federal fish hatcheries in the nation and the only federal hatchery in Oklahoma. The hatchery was established in 1929 and has 51 ponds, three holding houses, eight large concrete raceways, and six 20 ft. diameter fiberglass tanks for use in producing or holding a variety of aquatic species.

The station’s primary water source is water diverted from Pennington Creek, which is high quality spring water originating from the Arbuckle-Simpson aquifer. The water right to divert ten cubic feet per second was established in 1928.

The Station’s primary focus is rearing paddlefish to re-establish populations above impoundments on the Arkansas and Red Rivers.

The hatchery rears alligator snapping turtles and alligator gar, both considered to be imperiled within their native ranges, to determine critical components of life histories and captive rearing requirements. Channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill sunfish are produced to fulfill commitments for Native American tribes, National Wildlife Refuges, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, military installations, and Service sponsored children’s fishing derbies.

Each year, on the first Saturday in June, the hatchery hosts a Kid’s Fishing Derby for kids aged 6 – 12. The young fishermen fish for channel catfish and are eligible for prizes which are donated by area businesses.

For more information, visit the fish hatchery website.