Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery

National Fish Hatcheries raise fish and other aquatic species – like crayfish and mussels - to help restore and sustain important fish and other aquatic species for the benefit of the American people. Freshwater mussels play very important roles in our rivers and lakes filtering the water and creating habitat for fish and aquatic insects fish like to eat. With declining fish populations and declining freshwater mussel populations becoming prevalent across the world, fish hatchery operations are important than ever. 

In addition to our three main programs, Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery continues a decades-long reimbursable conservation agreement with the Fort Hood Military Base in which the hatchery provides sportfish for recreational opportunities for base service personnel. 

The Station has also partnered with the Texas Comptroller Office and San Antonio River Authority to investigate the development of freshwater mussel culture through reimbursable agreements.  

Additionally, the facility has partnered with various Universities, both inside and outside of Texas, to provide live freshwater mussels for critical research projects.