Fish Ladder is Open: The Salmon are Coming!

The Salmon are Coming! The Salmon are Coming!

The FISH ladder at the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery is now running. 

In the heart of nature’s grand cycle, over 20,000 adult Chinook salmon are making an inspiring return to the Issaquah Hatchery, marking a resounding success in conservation efforts. These amazing fish, embark on a remarkable journey, navigating the challenges of the open ocean to return to the very place of their birth—the hatchery. Not all of the salmon counted will make it to the hatchery, some are destined for other streams, but the majority will return.

This annual pilgrimage is a testament to the resilience of Chinook salmon, a species that faces numerous obstacles in its life cycle. From the moment they hatch from tiny eggs to their transformation into smolts, Chinook salmon face predators, changing ocean conditions, and human-induced challenges.

The return of adult Chinook salmon to the hatchery is a pivotal moment in the circle of life. It offers a unique opportunity for the public to view upclose this magnificent species. Moreover, it highlights the critical role that hatcheries play in salmon conservation. These facilities serve as sanctuaries for nurturing salmon populations, ensuring that these majestic fish have a fighting chance against the myriad of threats they face in the wild.