Countless peamouth minnows return to Kelsey Creek in the spring to spawn. For 24 to 48 hours, the stream is thick with the usually elusive fish. Every year since 2004, groups of peamouth have been observed one to four times from late April through June.
You can monitor Kelsey Creek via the city's live camera.
About peamouth
Unlike the stereotypical minnow, peamouth average a foot long. A Lake Washington fish, they can live an average of eight years. Unlike salmon, peamouth don't mind warmer water and lower stream levels in the spring.
Peamouth spawn in our streams, then return to the lake. The stream is plastered with gazillions of sticky little eggs that only take about a week to hatch.
Peamouth watching
The best spots to watch the peamouth are by Kelsey Creek, under the Wilburton Trestle, and at the Mercer Slough Fish Ladder. Watch quietly at these sites and, in addition to the peamouth, you may see other wildlife looking for dinner, including blue heron, wood ducks, river otters and bald eagles.
Our team makes an effort to keep residents informed about potential peamouth viewing opportunities. To receive an alert when the fish are in town, sign up on this page.
Peamouth Patrol Volunteer Training
Volunteers in the Peamouth Patrol monitor Bellevue streams for the minnows' arrival and track their numbers and wildlife when they visit.
The 2022 Peamouth Patrol Training will held virtually:
Wednesday, March 23rd, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
(1 hour workshop followed by ½ hour optional Q&A)
To request the training link, email streamteam@bellevuewa.gov.