Fishing for a Reason
Welcome to "Fishing for a Reason," the podcast that dives deep into the heart of fishing and the meaningful connections it brings. Hosted by Jamie Propst, founder of Anglers Unlimited, we explore the impact fishing has on our lives, communities, and environment so that you can become a more effective angler and catch more fish and have more fun every time you go out on the water or hit the hiking trails. Whether you target salmon, halibut, lingcod, crab, shrimp or fresh water species, there is something here for you.
From tales of epic catches and new places to wet a line in the PNW, to discussions on life, love and business, and the latest fishing reports, "Fishing for a Reason" is your go-to source for inspiration and insight. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just casting your first line, join us as we discover the many reasons why fishing is more than just a hobby—it's a way of life.
Fishing for a Reason
24: Why Every Angler Should Visit a Fish Hatchery + Bonneville Dam Tour
In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie and Scott share their exciting visit to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery and Dam along the Columbia River in Oregon. This spontaneous road trip detour turned into a full-day educational experience, featuring massive sturgeon, powerful hydroelectric turbines, and insights into fish conservation and hatchery operations. If you've ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at a hatchery — from spawning techniques to how millions of salmon and steelhead are raised — this episode is a must-listen.
🎯 What Listeners Will Learn:
- Why visiting fish hatcheries can deepen your appreciation for fishing and conservation
- The importance of hatcheries in salmon recovery
- Step-by-step breakdown of the spawning and hatchery process
- The species raised at Bonneville (including Coho, Chinook, and steelhead) and how they're distributed
- Why August is the best month to visit if you want to see big kings
- Recommendations for other Pacific Northwest hatcheries to visit
Resources & Links Mentioned:
- Bonneville Fish Hatchery Info
- Find a hatchery - WDFW
🧠 Salmon School Enrollment (limited spots): Email support@anglersunlimited.co with subject line Salmon School to secure yours.