Lost Valley Fish Hatchery

about the hatchery

Lost Valley Hatchery is located on Lost Valley Road just northeast of Warsaw, MO.  Interestingly, at 969 acres, it is the largest state-owned hatchery in Missouri and is operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC).  The facility was constructed using funds from both the Sport Fish Restoration Act and MDC.

Lost Valley is a warm water hatchery and produces a variety of fish species in 77 rearing ponds including walleye, muskellunge, hybrid striped bass, striped bass, channel catfish, hybrid sunfish, fathead minnows, and golden shiners.  Additionally, the hatchery also raises the federally endangered Topeka shiner and propagates various species of state endangered mussels.  Basically, the fish species produced by the hatchery are used to stock rivers and lakes statewide.

Nature at Lost Valley Hatchery

The area at Lost Valley encompasses several habitats like glades, mixed forest, and open grassland.  Also, the area east of the access road is open to archery hunting of deer and shotgun and archery hunting of other species.  You will also find there is ample opportunity to walk, hike, take photos, and bird watch.

lost valley hatchery visitor center – update

AS OF 6/1/21 THE LOST VALLEY FISH HATCHERY VISITOR CENTER IS CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC.  They will still take groups to utilize the fishing pond.  Please contact them directly to schedule.

Lost Valley Hatchery also includes a 2,000 square foot visitor center with exhibits that focus on warm water fish culture, fishing, and MDC’s role in aquatic resource management.  Likewise, the visitor center includes two large windows where visitors can view the production room and a 12,700-gallon aquarium containing many of our native species. The center is open year-round and admission is free.

Kids Fishing Day

Lost Valley Hatchery hosts an annual Kids Fishing Day for children 15 and under.  Participants fish in a ½ acre stocked pond for channel catfish and hybrid sunfish.  Children can participate in a variety of other activities during the course of the day and also receive a free gift with registration.  Drawings are held throughout the day for tackle boxes and fishing poles. Lunch is provided and the event is free to the public.

​Stop at the scenic pullout overlooking most of the rearing ponds and a portion of Truman Lake.​

Call to schedule tours
Phone:  660-438-4465
Email: LostValHatchery@mdc.mo.gov
Website