Tour an Alaskan Fish Hatchery

Visitors to the Ketchikan area will enjoy a quick tour of the Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center. The center is an easy walk from town or from the docks, so cruise ship patrons can squeeze in the tour while in town. The tour of the hatchery is guided by knowledgeable, local guides. The center is housed in wooden buildings that overlook the Ketchikan Creek. Watch as the fish push against the current into pools for sorting or feed the king and silver salmon at the center. There are also eagles on display in an enclosed area, allowing you to see a bald eagle up close. There are two resident bald eagles who live on the premises and because of injury, they are unable to fly. These eagles have mated for life and build their nest for eggs annually. The eagles are able to hunt salmon within the enclosure. The Ketchikan Indian Community runs the hatchery and seeks to "... to promote public service through conservation, education, and stewardship of the indigenous birds and fish of Southeast Alaska." There are care facilities on the premises for eagles and other wildlife. This tribal-managed facility is an interesting stop in Ketchikan that exposes visitors to native species of Alaska.