# 7 - The Hatchery
Rated: Easy to Moderate
3 miles, round-trip
The Hatchery, or sometimes called "Pinopolis Pool" by
locals, is a 2,200+ acre Department of Natural Resources
protected Waterfowl Management Area. It's somewhat
contained by a series of old dikes and many small islands.
This paddle offers everything from a couple hours of easy
fun to an all-day adventure; there's lots to see! Wildlife
-includes wading birds, song birds and small game. It
-offers some of the best fishing around.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Distance: 3 miles, round-trip, further exploration is encouraged!
Time: 2 - 2.5 hours.
Crowds: Moderate. You're guaranteed to see boaters/anglers in this area.
Put In / Take Out: Hatchery Waterfowl Management Area, State Road S-8-802, Pinopolis, SC 29469.
GPS: 33.268503, -80.103042 or 33°16’06.6”N, 80°06’11.0”W. PHOTO of MAIN BOAT RAMP.
**The better place to launch a kayak is actually 450-ft. before (to the west) of the main boat ramp:
PHOTO of BETTER KAYAK LAUNCH. GPS: 33.268306, -80.104611 or 33°16'05.9"N 80°06'16.6"W.
Fees/Permits: None.
Current: Negligible, generally south direction.
Tidal Influence: None.
Trees Down or Other Obstructions? If you come across downed trees, limbs or other obstructions while paddling
this blueway, please let us know. We can often facilitate removing it. Contact us at 843-433-0361 or 843-719-4146.
Precautions: You’ll have protection from some winds with a few islands and dikes, however, there are plenty of open spaces in The Hatchery where winds can intensify resulting in waves/whitecaps. There are hundreds of tree stumps just inches below the water’s surface. These can flip a paddler if a boat gets wedged on top. Tip: these stumps can usually be seen with polarized sunglasses. It’s advisable to wear bright orange during hunting season.
Water Level: For this Blueway paddle trail, water level is not much of a concern because of open waters. Lake Moultrie Water Levels click HERE.
So Much History Nearby: Did you know Berkeley County has more than 110 historical markers and historical points of interest? CLICK HERE to find your Adventures in History!
Weather on the Trail: Click HERE
