Quilcene National Fish Hatchery

Located in a beautiful valley on the eastern side of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Quilcene National Fish Hatchery has been raising salmon for more than a century.  Established in 1911, the hatchery plays an important role in restoring and supporting Pacific Northwest salmon populations while fulfilling Tribal trust responsibilities and supporting recreational and commercial fisheries.

Quilcene specializes in raising coho salmon, releasing hundreds of thousands of young salmon into the Big Quilcene River each year.  The hatchery works closely with Tribal partners, including the Port Gamble S’Klallam, Jamestown S’Klallam, Skokomish, Lower Elwha Klallam, and Suquamish Tribes, to conserve salmon resources that are culturally and economically important to the region.

⭐ Federal Fish Hatchery

🐟 Coho Salmon Production, Olympic Peninsula Salmon Restoration

Address: 281 Fish Hatchery Road, Quilcene, WA 98376

Phone: (360) 765-3334

🔗 Official Hatchery Website

Species Raised

🐟 Coho Salmon

Services & Features

✅ Public visitor access
✅ Self-guided hatchery visits
✅ Small visitor center with educational displays
✅ Fish pond and raceway viewing
✅ Fish ladder viewing
✅ Fish weir viewing
✅ Big Quilcene River access
✅ Guided tours by appointment
✅ Tribal fisheries partnerships
✅ Salmon conservation programs
✅ Wildlife viewing and photography opportunities

Visitor Information

Visitors can explore the hatchery grounds and learn how salmon are raised from eggs to release. Guests can view fish ponds, raceways, the fish ladder, the fish weir, and the scenic Big Quilcene River while learning about the importance of salmon conservation in the Pacific Northwest.

The hatchery is a popular stop for visitors exploring the Olympic Peninsula and offers opportunities for families, anglers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Limited guided tours and school field trips may be available by appointment depending on staff availability.

The hatchery is open for self-guided visits Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. Visitors should contact the hatchery ahead of time for guided tours or group visits.