Kitimat River Hatchery

On this page

• About us
• Visiting the hatchery
• Key activities
• Local fishing and community involvement
• When can I see salmon?

About us

The Kitimat River Hatchery began as a pilot project in 1977 and construction was completed in 1983. Since its completion, the hatchery maintains salmon populations for commercial, sport and First Nations fisheries. The hatchery attracts anglers from around the world to fish in the Douglas Channel and Kitimat River, anglers that contribute to the local economy. The hatchery is also involved in public and community education and stewardship, and supports fish management, stock assessment and science.

Visiting the hatchery

Directions

Enter Kitimat on Highway 37. Continue straight through town across the Haisla Bridge (over the Kitimat River) and past Industrial Avenue and Radley Park towards the Rio Tinto Alcan smelters. Watch for signs just past the sand hill. The turnoff to the hatchery is on the left.

Tours

Tours are available at the hatchery. All tours are guided walking tours lasting approximately 45 minutes and are wheelchair accessible. Public washrooms are available. Please telephone to reserve a guided tour (Telephone: 250-639-9888).

Key activities

• Fish production to support sustainable fisheries
• Stewardship and education
• External partnerships

Local fishing and community involvement

• Freshwater: Region 6 - Skeena
• Tidal Waters: Areas 6 and 106 (Kitimat/Kemano Bay)
• Community Projects: Northern Interior and North Coast

When can I see salmon?