Just outside of Branson, at the foot of Table Rock Dam, is the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery. This facility is a great place to spend an afternoon and best of all, it's free, unless you choose to drop a quarter in the fish food vending machine. 

For the trout production program of the Missouri Department of Conservation, this facility ranks as the largest. Over 1 million catchable rainbow and brown trout are produced here each year. Some of these fish are released into Lake Taneycomo and others are put into other Missouri trout management areas.

Over 250,000 people visit the hatchery each year. Guided tours are provided four times per day during the week, Memorial Day through Labor Day. In addition, there are hiking trails and fishing access points along Lake Taneycomo.

For more information, visit their web site and enjoy your tour!

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