# 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 Wildlife 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
Fees/Permits: None.
Current: Negligible, generally south direction.
Tidal Influence: None.
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
