(Orleans)– There will be a lot of activity over the next several weeks at the state fish hatchery in Orleans.
Donna Muhm, Natural Resources Biologist with the DNR, says local crews as well as those from other parts of the state will begin the annual gillnetting operations tonight (Fri.).
Muhm says while the hatchery will be in operation 24/7 while the operation is underway, that the facility will be open to the public from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. She says female walleye will be stripped between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m. with males usually around 7:00 p.m. in the evening.
The fish are then returned to the lake.
Muhm says they’re optimistic about the upcoming rearing season based on what they’ve seen so far.
She says they’ve already collected all the northern pike they needed and spawned them.
Groups wishing to visit the fish hatchery are asked to call 336-1840 to arrange a date and time for a tour.
