Spawning Day at Local Fish Hatchery with Friends!

My friend Dave Croonquist — an avid fisherman and retired Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement for the Colorado Division of Wildlife (now Colorado Parks and Wildlife) — invited me to join him for “spawning days” at the local fish hatchery in Sequim.

I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but experience has taught me that time spent with Dave is always educational. This outing was no exception. As salmon were processed and released, I asked questions, and Dave patiently unpacked the biology, logistics, and stewardship behind the work.

The experience offered a deeper appreciation for the role hatcheries play in sustaining fish populations — and might just inspire you to visit one near you.