Makah National Fish Hatchery

Located in the temperate rainforest of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula just one mile from the Pacific Ocean, Makah National Fish Hatchery was established in 1981 in partnership with the Makah Indian Tribe.  The hatchery was authorized by Congress to help fulfill treaty obligations under the 1855 Treaty of Neah Bay by restoring salmon and steelhead populations that are central to the Tribe’s culture, subsistence, and economy.

Today, Makah National Fish Hatchery raises and releases approximately 3 million young fish each year, including fall Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and winter steelhead into the Tsoo-Yess River on the Makah Indian Reservation.  Since opening, the hatchery has released more than 92 million salmon and trout, supporting Tribal, commercial, and recreational fisheries while helping restore native fish populations.

⭐ Federal Fish Hatchery

🐟 Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon & Winter Steelhead Production — Makah Tribal Fisheries

Address: 897 Hatchery Road, Neah Bay, WA 98357

Phone: (360) 645-2521

🔗 Official Hatchery Website

Species Raised

🐟 Fall Chinook Salmon
🐟 Coho Salmon
🐟 Winter Steelhead

Services & Features

✅ Public visitor access
✅ Self-guided visitor center
✅ Guided tours by appointment
✅ Fish ladder and fish weir viewing
✅ Salmon and steelhead viewing
✅ Educational exhibits
✅ School and community programs
✅ Partnership with the Makah Indian Tribe
✅ Wildlife viewing and birdwatching
✅ Photography opportunities

Visitor Information

Visitors are welcome to explore the hatchery grounds and self-guided visitor center to learn about salmon production, hatchery operations, and the cultural importance of salmon to the Makah Tribe.  Guests can walk around the raceways, view the fish ladder, fish weir, and the scenic Tsoo-Yess River. Guided tours are available by appointment, depending on staff availability.

For the best fish viewing, visit during the spawning season, which generally runs from mid-September through December, when adult salmon and steelhead return to the hatchery.  Nearby freshwater sport fishing is typically available from late August through the fall season, subject to Washington fishing regulations.