Cowlitz Trout Hatchery

The Cowlitz Trout Hatchery is located about 6 miles downriver from Mayfield Dam. Tacoma Power owns the facility and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife operates it with our funding and support. Each year, summer-run and winter-run steelhead and sea-run cutthroat are released from the hatchery.

In 2016, in response to significant fish loss due to bird predators, we installed wires, block nets and wire fencing to protect the fish. We are planning on remodeling and updating the hatchery to make needed improvements.

Blue Creek Boat Launch

The boat launch is located near the trout hatchery and includes a large parking lot, restrooms and ADA-compliant riverside fishing platforms. There is no cost to use the boat launch.

Camping is allowed in part of the parking lot for up to three days, but no fires are allowed.

Directions to the Trout Hatchery and Boat Launch

From Interstate 5, take State Highway 12 east about 6.5 miles to the community of Ethel. Turn right (south) onto Tucker Road. Go straight on Classe Road where Tucker Road bends to the right at a Y. At the end of the road turn left on to Spencer Road. Watch for the signs directing you to turn right for the Cowlitz Trout Hatchery and the Blue Creek Boat Launch.

Cowlitz Trout Hatchery
165 Osprey Lane
Toledo, WA 98591

Blue Creek Boat Launch
273 Blue Creek Lane
Toledo, WA 98591