Edenton National Fish Hatchery

Edenton National Fish Hatchery has been producing fish for conservation and public fisheries since 1898.  Originally established to restore declining American shad populations, the hatchery has grown into the largest producer of Atlantic striped bass in the National Fish Hatchery System while supporting numerous restoration projects throughout the Southeast.

Today, Edenton raises Atlantic striped bass for stocking programs and also works to recover lake sturgeon, Cape Fear shiners, white shiners, and other native aquatic species.  Visitors can enjoy a public aquarium, self-guided walking tour, nature trail, and a boardwalk overlooking scenic Pembroke Creek.

⭐ Federal Fish Hatchery

🐟 Atlantic Striped Bass Production & Native Species Conservation

Address: 1104 West Queen Street, Edenton, NC 27932

Phone: (252) 482-4118

🔗 Official Hatchery Website

Species Raised

🐟 Atlantic Striped Bass
🐟 Lake Sturgeon
🐟 Cape Fear Shiner
🐟 White Shiner
🐟 Gopher Frog (Conservation Program)

Services & Features

✅ Public visitor access
✅ Public aquarium with native aquatic exhibits
✅ Self-guided hatchery tours
✅ Nature trail and Pembroke Creek boardwalk
✅ Birdwatching and wildlife viewing
✅ Educational exhibits and classroom
✅ Atlantic striped bass production
✅ Native and endangered species conservation

Visitor Information

Visitors can explore the public aquarium, walk through the striped bass production area, and enjoy a short nature trail leading to a 200-foot boardwalk overlooking Pembroke Creek.  The hatchery offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and learning about warm-water fish culture.  Large groups may schedule guided tours by appointment.  Fishing is permitted from the boardwalk with a valid North Carolina inland fishing license.

The hatchery is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM–3:30 PM. From July through early December, the public aquarium and outdoor visitor areas are also open on weekends and holidays.