Big Qualicum Hatchery - Background

Big Qualicum employs a number of natural and artificial enhancement techniques to increase populations of Pacific salmon and steelhead trout. It was the first of the modern enhancement projects to be undertaken in this province and has provided a model for other developments. Research and assessment of this facility have increased the scientific data available on salmonid behaviour, life cycle and habitat requirements. And not to be forgotten is the annual landed value of over $10 million to the commercial and sport fisheries. The hatchery also provides an important source of fish for the native food-fish program and countless hours of enjoyment for the recreational fisherman.

Big Qualicum River

The Big Qualicum River is a typical coastal stream. From its source at Horne Lake, the river flows approximately 11 km (7 mi) to the Strait of Georgia. All species of Pacific salmon return to Big Qualicum as do steelhead and cutthroat trout. Chum represent the highest production followed by good populations of coho and chinook.

Counting Fence

During the fall and winter, adult salmonids returning to the Big Qualicum are counted as they pass through the fence. Their offspring are also counted as they swim downstream to the ocean in the spring. The spawning and rearing area in the river is limited, therefore the number of spawners is controlled at about 100,000 chum, 5,000 coho, and 2,000 chinook. If there are more, the fence is used to divert them. It also aids in capturing hatchery brood stock.

Steelhead/Cutthroat Ponds

Each year, approximately 100,000 steelhead and 25,000 cutthroat trout are produced at the hatchery. The tiny fry are placed in small troughs during the early stages of rearing. As they gain size and strength, they are moved to larger circular tubs and concrete ponds. To achieve desired growth rates, automatic feeders are sometimes used to extend the feeding period from dawn to dusk.

Fish Ladder

If you visit the hatchery during the fall you can see spawners as they ascend the fish ladder leading to the holding ponds. Some of these fish will be held in ponds to provide brood stock for the hatchery program. Others will be returned to the river to spawn naturally. The best time to see adult salmon is from October to December while February through April is a good time for steelhead.

Releases

Annual fish releases are available through either the Mapster project, or through a query to the release database