In 1929, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation established Byron State Fish Hatchery to produce sportfish for statewide distribution. This is the only jar culture hatchery in the state, producing 25 - 30 million fish a year.

Besides raising sportfish, the hatchery's operation and management provide habitat for a diversity of other wildlife. In 1987, the Wildlife Department purchased 20 acres adjacent to the hatchery. Through the efforts of the Department's Fisheries Division and Nongame Wildlife Program, the property was developed into a Watchable Wildlife Area.

The Byron Hatchery Watchable Wildlife Area (WWA) offers a short, self-guided nature trail (1/2 mile long) through three distinct habitats within a mixed grass prairie. Through a variety of interpretive and wildlife viewing features, a diversity of songbirds, waterfowl and prairie grasses and wildflowers can be observed.

Byron Hatchery WWA is open during daylight hours, seven days a week.

There is an indoor classroom on site that can accommodate up to 40 students.

To schedule field trip and/or hatchery tour, please call Byron Hatchery, 405-474-2663.