CASPER-The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is officially reeling in a brighter future for the state's angling community. To pave the way for a brand-new, state-of-the-art cool/warm water fish production facility, the Dan Speas Fish Hatchery temporarily closed its doors to the public on June 25.

This brief pause in public access is a necessary step to ensure the safety of visitors and staff during the heavy-lifting phases of the project. “We had hoped to keep access open to the hatchery, but we have discovered there will be too many safety hazards during the demolition phase of construction, says Lars Alsager, Game and Fish superintendent of Dan Speas.  “The Department will reassess the closure in the fall of 2026, once initial demolition and foundational work are safely wrapped up.”

What to Expect: Business as Usual for Trout Production

While the facility is getting a major upgrade, Wyoming's premier sport fishing remains in excellent hands. As the state’s largest producer of fish for stocking, the Dan Speas Fish Hatchery, along with the state's other nine fish hatcheries, will continue its normal cold water fish production uninterrupted throughout the entire construction process.

Once the expansion is complete, the new facility will dramatically boost Game and Fish’s ability to manage diverse recreational fishing opportunities across Wyoming by raising sport fish locally rather than importing them from other states. Anglers can look forward to high-quality, in-state production of walleye, sauger, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish.

"This project marks a thrilling milestone for Wyoming's outdoor community, ensuring a robust, self-sustaining future for cold, cool and warm-water sport fishing right here at home,” adds Alan Osterland, chief of fisheries.

Project timeline and milestones

Wyoming Game and Fish is committed to keeping the community informed every step of the way. Here is a quick snapshot of what to expect as this exciting project comes to life:

• Fall 2026: Demolition and foundation work conclude; the department will reassess public access to the facility.
• Fall 2027: Construction of the new cool/warm water fish production facility is scheduled for official completion.
• Spring 2028: The very first batch of cool and warm-water fish will be proudly produced and prepared to stock Wyoming waters.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department extends its sincere thanks to the public for their understanding and cooperation as we build a premier fishery asset for generations of anglers to come.