Welaka National Fish Hatchery

The Welaka National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium is a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service facility located in southern Putnam County, Florida, along the St. Johns River. Open to the public for self-guided tours, the facility features a 16-tank public aquarium displaying fish raised at the hatchery alongside other native species of fish, amphibians, and reptiles from Florida's freshwater ecosystems. Visitors can also explore a nature trail, climb an observation tower for birdwatching over the hatchery ponds, and schedule guided group tours by appointment. The hatchery plays an important conservation role, producing Atlantic and Gulf Striped Bass, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, and Bowfin for fisheries restoration and recreational fishing programs across Florida and the southeastern United States. It is a unique and educational free attraction for nature lovers in the Putnam County area.