Abstract: Of the various types of technical fishways, fish lifts are one of the most operationally flexible yet most complicated upstream passage methods. Fish lifts are being installed with greater frequency and have enjoyed successes in passing many different species in the same facility. Fish lifts have been particularly successful in passing alosine species, and are a typical upstream passage solution for medium to high head dams.This presentation will discuss some of the advantages and challenges of constructing fish lifts and will highlight examples of fish lifts in operation. Well designed fish lifts have the ability to distribute attraction flows in multiple locations to achieve different velocities in different zones of the fishway such as the entrance, crowder pool, holding pool, or transport flumes. This operational flexibility allows different flow fields to be established for optimal attraction and movement of different target species during different times of the upstream passage season. This flexibility requires complex hydraulic adjustments and automation of mechanical systems. The inherent mechanical complexity of fish lifts means that it is important to engage a competent engineering consultant whose team understands the nuances of fish behavior as well as the technical challenges of such an important facility. This presentation will highlight some of the important design considerations for developing or evaluating a successful fish lift project.