Bay Delta Classroom Aquarium Education Program: Releasing Fish

Overview

You must have prior permission from CDFW to hatch and release trout. A valid 772 Authorization Form must remain with the eggs/fry at all times.

1. Application to receive eggs and hatch fish (Form 772)
2. 772 Fry Release Form - must be submitted within 14 days of releasing the fish (or after the last fish dies)

A list of applications received, and permits returned is posted on the Online Application and Permit List.

Rainbow Trout Release Sites

With appropriate authorization

Steelhead Trout Release Sites

Release Site Updates 2024

In recent years, the presence of invasive New Zealand Mud Snails (NZMs) in hatchery waters reduced the number of release sites available for the CAEP program. Steelhead trout release sites were restricted to only waterbodies that were already positive for NZMs.

This year, with more extensive surveying of CAEP waterbodies, CDFW scientists have determined that NZMS are present in more release sites than previously confirmed. This offers CAEP the opportunity to re-open a few more of our former release sites.

Due to the presence of New Zealand Mud Snails, with appropriate authorization, steelhead trout fry obtained from Warm Springs Hatchery may currently only be released into the waterbodies listed below. Details regarding specific release locations within these waterbodies can be found on the R3 CAEP Blog.

Mendocino County

• Main stem of the Russian River

Sonoma County

• Atascadero Creek
• Dry Creek
• Dutch Bill Creek
• Mark West Creek
• Mill Creek
• Santa Rosa Creek

Other Approved Waters

• Porter Creek
  • Russian River Tributary
  • Mark West Tributary
• Green Valley Creek
• Willow Creek

Egg Pick Up Dates

• Egg delivery dates have been tentatively set for 2024/25. Check back in soon to see when you can expect your eggs.
• Egg availability is dependent upon rainfall and hatchery egg quotas being met.
• It is possible eggs may not be available on all dates.
• TEACHERS IN THE UKIAH AREA who wish to pick up eggs from the Coyote Fish Facility may do so by marking "Picking up at Coyote" at the top of your application.

Contact

If you have any questions, contact R3caep@wildlife.ca.gov.

Connect with R3 Trout in the Classroom

• Trout in the Classroom Blog