Thompson State Fish Hatchery

Thompson State Fish Hatchery offers a fascinating, free educational experience where kids can witness the incredible process of fish breeding and conservation in action. This working facility gives families an up-close look at lake trout and whitefish production, making it perfect for curious young minds interested in aquatic life and environmental stewardship.

• ✓Watching thousands of fish at different life stages, from tiny fingerlings to full-grown trout
• ✓Feeding the fish and seeing them swarm to the surface
• ✓Learning about Michigan's Great Lakes fisheries and conservation efforts
• ✓Exploring the outdoor raceways and indoor tanks
• ✓Free educational experience that teaches kids about aquaculture

1. 1.Visit on weekdays when staff are more available to answer questions and provide informal tours of the facility.
2. 2.Bring quarters for the fish food dispensers so kids can feed the fish, which is always a highlight of the visit.
3. 3.Stop by the small visitor information area first to pick up educational materials about Michigan's fish species.
4. 4.Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be moving between different outdoor raceways and tanks.
5. 5.Pack hand sanitizer and be prepared for fishy smells, which come with the territory but don't bother most kids.

Mid-morning on weekdays during spring and summer offers the best experience, when staff are actively working and the fish are most active. Weekday visits also mean fewer crowds and more opportunities for personalized attention from hatchery workers.

Admission is completely free. The facility is mostly outdoors, so dress for the weather and be prepared for uneven surfaces around the fish raceways.

Open year-round, but spring and early summer are ideal for seeing the most active breeding and rearing processes. Winter visits are possible but can be quite cold as much of the viewing is outdoors.

Head to Clyde's Drive-In #5 in downtown Manistique for classic burgers and ice cream, or try The Sunny Shores Restaurant for family-friendly dining with waterfront views.