Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery - Mishawaka, Indiana

Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery: A Comprehensive Guide

The Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery, located at 13200 Jefferson Blvd, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States, is a vital facility that plays a crucial role in the conservation and management of fish populations in Indiana. As a state fish hatchery, its primary objective is to provide a controlled environment for the breeding, rearing, and release of fish species, with a focus on ensuring the sustainability of fish populations in the state's watersheds.

Main Services

• Fish Farming: The hatchery is primarily involved in fish farming, with a focus on producing high-quality fish species for recreational and commercial purposes.
• Species Management: The facility is responsible for the management of various fish species, including trout, salmon, and bass, to ensure their optimal health and well-being.
• Rehabilitation and Release: The hatchery provides a safe haven for injured or sick fish, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild to reestablish healthy populations.
• Education and Outreach: The facility offers educational programs and workshops to promote awareness and appreciation for fish conservation and management.
• Research and Development: The hatchery conducts research and development activities to improve fish farming practices, disease management, and conservation techniques.

Location and Access

The Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery is situated at 13200 Jefferson Blvd, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States. The facility is easily accessible via car, with ample parking available on site. Visitors can also take advantage of the wheelchair-accessible parking facilities.

For those who prefer not to drive, public transportation options are available, although limited. The nearest bus stop is approximately 1 mile away from the facility. For those who wish to explore the surrounding area, Mishawaka offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and recreational facilities.

Featured Characteristics

The Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery is a unique facility that offers a range of features and characteristics that make it an attractive destination for visitors and a valuable resource for fish conservation efforts. Some of the notable features include:

• Fish Viewing Areas: The facility features several fish viewing areas where visitors can observe fish species up close.
• Fish Displays: The hatchery showcases a range of fish species through interactive displays and exhibits.
• Kiosk and Information Center: Visitors can access information about the facility, its programs, and its services through a kiosk-like structure.
• Small Display Area: The facility has a small display area that provides additional information about fish conservation and management.
• Delivery and Pickup Services: The hatchery offers delivery and pickup services for fish and other products.

Practical Information

For those planning a visit to the Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery, here are some practical details to consider:

• Hours of Operation: The facility is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Saturday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
• Admission: Admission to the facility is free, although donations are appreciated.
• Contact Information: Visitors can contact the facility through phone at 574-255-4199 or email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).
• Education Programs: The facility offers educational programs and workshops for schools and other groups, with advance notice required.
• Special Events: The hatchery occasionally hosts special events and activities, such as fish releases and conservation seminars.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors to the Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery have consistently praised the facility for its informative and engaging programs, as well as its commitment to fish conservation and management. Some of the positive aspects mentioned in reviews include:

• Informative and Engaging Programs: Reviewers have praised the facility's programs for being informative, engaging, and suitable for a range of ages and interests.
• Commitment to Fish Conservation: Visitors have appreciated the facility's commitment to fish conservation and management, recognizing the importance of sustainable fish populations for the environment and human well-being.
• Beautiful Facilities: Reviewers have praised the facility's facilities, noting their cleanliness, organization, and overall aesthetic appeal.
• Knowledgeable Staff: Visitors have appreciated the knowledge and expertise of the facility's staff, who are often willing to answer questions and provide additional information.
• Family-Friendly: The facility has been praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for families and school groups.

👍 Reviews of Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery

Lauren F.

5/5

Went on a school field trip and it was super informative! I learned just as much as the students did. They show you the fish from babies all the way to full grown and have very knowledgeable staff leading the tours.

loveross0716

4/5

There's a kiosk-like structure with a some info for visitors before you get to the actual fish tanks, and a very small inside display, but this is not a touristy place. It is an actual hatchery, where different tanks hold different size fish. Our young grandkids (age 4, 6 and 7) had a lot of fun. Only took about 1/2 hour and was enjoyable for us adults too. Nothing flashy.

Sariah M.

5/5

What an unexpected place! We visited here with friends a few months ago and the workers were so helpful (if nobody is around you can just knock on the door and someone will come talk to you). We set up a tool for a group of us with preschool-aged kids, and it was wonderful! It was free, they taught us about what they do, showed a video, and let us see fish eggs and let us feed the fishes.

Reed L.

1/5

Outside of a school group and as a local dad with a kid who wanted to see some "fish", the outing was a total bust. We had to find somebody to ask if there was anything to do, the "visitor center" was non-existent, and there were just a couple large tanks of tiny fish outside. I know I'm not the typical visitor, but it was definitely not for walk in visitor even though it was described as such.

Tanya K.

4/5

We showed up here unexpected to check it out, and was offered a free personal tour! We learned a lot about the Steelhead Trout and the Salmon they raise. Interesting stuff. The hatcheries are covered with huge nets, to keep the fish in and predators out. (Although a local otter helps himself from time to time) I observed a butterfly fly over one of the nets and the water came alive with 10 or more fish leaping out of the water to try to get a quick snack. It was fascinating, but maybe I just like things like this.

Sydney T.

5/5

Awesome tour !! Dress according to the weather because half of the tour is outside. Make sure you call first and schedule a tour so u can go inside too

Michelle I.

5/5

I enjoyed the wonderful lessons the DNR people taught the students today, they learned so much about replenishing fish supplies and boosting our ecosystem with fish in our local streams , Rivers, and lakes...

SAW A.

4/5

Cool place to visit welcome to public free tours great for homeschoolers.