The hatchery production area covers 110 acres holding 77 earthen ponds and six buildings. Fish are raised in the earthen ponds, which range in size from 0.1 to 1.5 acres and total 55 acres. Hatchery services are an integral part of numerous regional fisheries programs trying to make our world a better place. Although there are no special services normally offered to host hatchery quests, they are welcome to walk around the facility and observe fish tending and harvests as may be happening at the time. Largemouth Bass and Bream - to seed new waters.
Largemouth bass is Florida's premier freshwater sportfish.
It and other popular sunfishes occur naturally throughout Florida. Stocking where these species already exist would be wasteful. However, in instances where public lakes are either newly constructed or renovated, stocking can be beneficial. Introduction of largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and perhaps crappie or other species can jump start a fish community that otherwise would take years to develop on its own. Recently acquired muck farm properties that have been reflooded by the water management districts in Lake County are examples where fishing opportunities were initiated after bass and bream were stocked.