The ODFW Visitors' Guide
Northwest Region
In 1925 the first fish hatchery on the South Santiam River began operations about 5 miles upstream from today's present site, rearing annually approximately 100,000 Spring Chinook in dirt ponds for release into the South Santiam River.
The present site came about with the construction of Foster Dam. In 1968 the facility was dedicated for the rearing of Spring Chinook and Summer Steelhead.
This facility was built and annually funded in part by the US Army Corps of Engineers to compensate for the loss of spawning and rearing areas above the dams on the South
Santiam River.
Best time to visit: June - January for viewing adult and juvenile fish.
Fish raised: Spring chinook and summer steelhead.
What to see and do
At the hatchery: Returning adults are captured at Foster Dam March - October. Spawning of adult fish takes place during the months of September for spring chinook and December - January for summer steelhead. Juvenile fish are reared at the hatchery year-round. There also is a 1,200-gallon aquarium for viewing various species of adult and juvenile fish.
Self guided tours are available from 7:30 a.m. to dusk and guided tours for groups 7:30 a.m. to 4:20 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
Nearby: The South Santiam River is one of the top summer steelhead fishing rivers in the state, with the best fishing May - July. Foster Reservoir upstream from the hatchery has fishing, boating, picnicking and camping available to visitors all year.
Fish Production
Directions
Take Hwy. 20 through Sweet Home. Just east of Sweet Home turn onto Foster Dam Road. Cross Foster Dam and proceed to a stop sign at the opposite end of the dam. Turn left onto River Road. Travel 1/2 mile and turn left to enter the hatchery.
Address and Phone
South Santiam Hatchery
43182 N. River Drive
Sweet Home, OR 97386
(541) 367-3437
Northwest Region | Southwest Region | High Desert Region | Northeast Region
