Fish

State fish culture stations (hatcheries) stock close to 2 million fish annually in public waters for angling and fish restoration.

In addition to stocking fish for public waters, Vermont fish hatcheries:

When boating, fishing or recreating on Vermont waterways, you can help protect the health of aquatic ecosystems by taking these simple precautions.

The introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) impacts the health of Vermont's waterbodies and aquatic communities by changing the surrounding ecosystem, and out-competing native species for food and habitat.

Vermont's Fish Health program helps protect wild fish populations and fish reared at fish culture stations by preventing and managing serious fish diseases.

The program is responsible for:

Learn about collaborative efforts to restore salmon to the Lake Champlain fisheries.

Vermont's fisheries biologists are engaged in a variety of activities to ensure Vermont's valuable fisheries resources are sustained and enhanced through time.

Habitat is key. It is the most important factor affecting wild trout distribution and abundance.

Temperature

Water temperature is single most important factor limiting wild trout. Trout need cold water to survive. Cooler water temperature allows water to hold more oxygen.

The department's wild trout management focuses on protecting and enhancing water quality and aquatic habitats.

Vermont's Wild Trout

Vermont is fortunate to have a wealth of wild trout populations. They are indicators of a healthy environment, needing cold, clean water and complex and connected habitats.