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West Sacramento Sun

Salmon Have Returned to Nimbus Fish Hatchery

Nov 05, 2024 02:00PM ● By MPG Staff

The Nimbus fish hatchery visitor center is the place to learn about the American River Fall salmon run.


SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The American River Fall salmon run is underway and the Nimbus fish hatchery is welcoming visitors with tour opportunities.

Guided Tour of the Nimbus Fish Hatchery

Visit the Nimbus fish hatchery for a free, family-friendly guided tour to explore the fish hatchery and neighboring American River on the second Saturday of each month.

Learn about the amazing life cycle of salmon and steelhead, walk along the American River and discuss hatchery operations. Participants might see fish and other wildlife, such as migratory birds, signs of mammal activity and cool insects.


Nimbus fish hatchery staff lead youngsters in exploration of the salmon life-cycle.


Tours are canceled in heavy rain. The tours start at 11 a.m. and are first come, first served with a maximum group size of 25 people. The tour is ADA accessible and suitable for all ages.

For more information, call 916-358-2884 or email [email protected].

Tot Time at Nimbus Fish Hatchery 

The salmon are back and Nimbus fish hatchery is excited to celebrate their return with a salmon-themed “Tot Time” at the Nimbus fish hatchery visitor’s center. The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 17.


An adult salmon is harvested for eggs or roe as a tour-group watches at the Nimbus fish hatchery.


Attendees will enjoy staff-led book readings about salmon, learn about their lifecycle and make some cool fish prints and other fun salmon crafts. The event is ecommended for children ages 2 to 7 years, with parent/guardian supervision. There is no cost for this event and registration is not required. For more information, email [email protected].

The Nimbus fish hatchery visitor center is located at 2001 Nimbus Road, Gold River.