We cannot watch this one yet. It is not reservable through recreation.gov. Nothing here will alert you — browse what we do watch.
The Welaka National Fish Hatchery was built in 1928 and originally operated by the State of Florida. Welaka raises species of fish that can tolerate water temperatures up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Species on station include Gulf and Atlantic Striped Bass, Atlantic Sturgeon, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Golden Shiners, and even Eastern Indigo Snakes. We coordinate our program activities with partners that include
Federal agencies, state conservation agencies, universities, and tribal nations. The species raised here are vital to the fishery resources and upland ecosystems of the Southeastern United States. New programs are added as recovery/restoration needs arise.
Please visit our aquarium at the Welaka Unit. Fish raised at the hatchery as well as other native species of fish, amphibians and reptiles are on display. Information and brochures pertaining to the hatchery and it's operation are also available at this location.
Aquarium Hours: 7am to 4pm daily.
Getting there
Ponds are operated at two locations. Those ponds at headquarters, near the aquarium, are called the Welaka Unit, and a second group of ponds about three miles south of headquarters is called the Beecher Unit. The Beecher Unit is named for the spring that serves as the water supply. Water for the Welaka Unit comes from a well 423 feet deep and from the St. Johns River
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 10.7 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Map
Member photos
Common questions about Welaka National Fish Hatchery
Can you reserve a site at Welaka National Fish Hatchery?
No. Welaka National Fish Hatchery is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.
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