Bears Bluff National Fish Hatchery is a part of the Warmwater Fisheries and Aquatic Conservation Program in the South Atlantic-Gulf Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Situated in coastal South Carolina, the facility sits on the banks of the Wadmalaw Sound and is nestled among salt marsh and lowland forest. The location provides ideal opportunities for research and improving culture and propagation techniques for freshwater, saltwater and anadromous aquatic species.

Visit Us

If you are in the Charleston area and wish get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, take a leisurely drive down the oak lined road that leads to Bears Bluff National Fish Hatchery. The 31 acres offers a self-guided walking trail that highlights the South Carolina Lowcountry ecosystem. Come visit us for some quality time outdoors. 

Our gates are open and we welcome visitors Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:00pm. We are closed on weekends and federal holidays.

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      Since 1871, the National Fish Hatchery system has been at work improving recreational fishing and restoring aquatic species that are in decline, at risk, and are important to the health of our aquatic systems. Across the country the network of National Fish Hatcheries work with states and tribes to conserve, restore and enhance the fish and aquatic resources of America for future generations. 

      Bears Bluff National Fish Hatchery is just one of the many field stations of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service whose mission is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

      Tours

      Self-guided tours are available all day during operating hours.

      Please call the office to schedule a guided tour of the hatchery. (843) 559-2315

      Our Organization

      Juvenile Northern Pike in aquarium at Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery, South Dakota
      The Fish and Aquatic Conservation program leads aquatic conservation efforts for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We are committed to tackling the nation’s highest priority aquatic conservation and recreational challenges to conserve, restore, and enhance fisheries for future generations.
      Program
      Falls Church,VA
      Orange fish eggs on a white background.
      The National Fish Hatchery System raises millions of fish and aquatic wildlife to improve sustainable recreational fishing, support fisheries that have been impacted by a federal dam, recover federally listed threatened or endangered species, fulfill our Tribal Trust responsibilities, and prevent...
      Program

      Our Species