Branson trout hatchery popular tourist draw

BRANSON, Mo. — Branson is known as an entertainment mecca, where tourists from far and wide come to see name acts perform, do touristy things, shop, and relax.

But a huge attraction in Branson is the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, Missouri's largest trout producer. It welcomed its 6 millionth visitor on Sunday and consistently draws 250,000 visitors a year.

There are about 10 million fish at the hatchery at any given time, far more than the 6 million visitors over the years. Hatchery naturalist Leah Eden said the July visitor count is usually 40,000.

On weekdays groups can get a guided tour of the hatchery's Conservation Center, but Eden said the most popular activity is feeding fish. Millions of trout ranging from 5 to 10 inches are kept in 42 concrete tanks after spending their first five to six months inside.

On the Net

* Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery: mdc.mo.gov/areas/hatchery/shepherd