(JUNEAU) - Today the Alaska Senate passed legislation virtually guaranteed to put a smile on every fisherman’s face by filling Alaska’s lakes, rivers and streams with more fish in the summers to come.

Sen. Ralph Seekins (R – Fairbanks) crafted the legislation that builds a new fish hatchery in Fairbanks and renovates and expands two existing hatcheries in the Anchorage area. It also improves hatcheries in Southeast.

"Alaska probably has the finest sport fishing in the world. A new hatchery for the interior and increased hatchery capacity in Southcentral Alaska means thousands of Alaskans will be able to spend more quality time together catching more fish," said Sen. Seekins.

SB 147 applies a sports fishery enhancement charge of $8.50 to sports fishing licenses to fund the hatchery construction work.

The legislation now moves to the State House.

Rep. Jim Holm (R – Fairbanks) has companion legislation working its way through the State House. HB 252 is currently in the House Finance Committee.

# # #