SigMT

SigMT Vol12 Iss 2

Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1118440

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 12 of 115

SiG MT 13 URBAN AFFAIRS Neighborhoods How are so many non-native freshwater fish caught in Montana and why is that supply unending? A trip to the Giant Springs Trout Hatchery provides answers. Here, at Montana's second largest production hatchery, you'll learn about the life cycle of fish from egg to adult. e Giant Springs facility raises four strains of rainbow trout and one of brook trout, totaling 750,000-800,000 fish per year. ese non-native game fish keep anglers happy, bring visitors to Montana, and stimulate the economy. "e hatchery is essential to great angling opportunities for rainbow and brook trout," according to Fish Culture Specialist Jerick Graves. ough the average female rainbow trout lays up to 3,000 eggs, the survival rate for fish in the wild is 1-3 percent. e hatchery rate, however, is closer to 90 percent with the eggs and fish protected from external threats including whirling disease and predators. Production hatcheries such as Giant Springs raise fish for eventual transfer to waterways (as opposed to brood production hatcheries that raise fish to spawn and create more eggs). e fish grown here (generally to 4"-7") will be "planted" in lakes, ponds, and reservoirs around the state. Glance at the guest book to see not just Montanans among the visitors. All parts of the country are represented, with fans from Arizona, Georgia, New York, and Alaska singing their praises. According to Graves, "People love the show pond. ey have the chance here to see really big fish up close. Kids can also feed the fish, see them jump and swim." Giant Springs Trout Hatchery: Keeps Anglers Happy Planning your visit: • e hatchery is open daily 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. You can complete a self-guided tour in under an hour. • For a guided tour, contact FWP Region 4 Headquarters: 406.454.5840. • Bring spare change. A quarter buys you a handful of fish food at the gumball machine near the show pond. Toss the food in the water and watch the show! 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405 GREAT FALLS, MONTANA S MT

Articles in this issue

Links on this page

Archives of this issue

view archives of SigMT - SigMT Vol12 Iss 2