The next generation of steelhead are getting ready to hatch at Niagara Springs Fish Hatchery. Nearly two million eggs have been placed in upwelling incubators where they will remain until the fry have absorbed their yolk sac and are ready to swim-up and start on feed.
The eggs originated from adult steelhead that were trapped and spawned this spring at Oxbow and Pahsimeroi Fish Hatcheries. This brood year of fish will remain at Niagara Springs for 10 more months before being returned to the Snake and Salmon Rivers as smolts to begin their journey to the Pacific Ocean.
Niagara Springs, Oxbow and Pahsimeroi Fish Hatcheries are owned by Idaho Power and operated by Idaho Department of Fish and Game.