Skip to main content

Nevin Springs Fish and Wildlife Area

DNR Fisheries Areas

Nevin is the oldest of all DNR managed lands, acquired by the state in 1876 for use as a fish hatchery. The Nevin Springs Fish and Wildlife Area is located in the City of Fitchburg south of the City of Madison and is adjacent to the Nevin Fish Hatchery, the DNR's South Central Regional Office and Service Center. The area is managed for fish and wildlife habitat with hunting and other secondary, compatible recreational activities.

The property's fourteen natural springs are part of the Nine Springs E-Way Corridor [exit DNR] and feed into the Yahara River System. The Capital City State Trail now passes through the natural area portion of the property; it is included in the Capital Springs Centennial Recreational Planning Boundary.

Location/Directions

The property sits inside of Fish Hatchery Road (County Hwy D), Lacy Road, and Syene Road. Parking is limited. There is a parking lot at Syene Road.

Activities

Tours

The Nevin Springs Fish and Wildlife Area offers tours of their hatchery. For more information, visit our hatcheries and rearing station page.

Angling opportunities

There is a limited opportunity for fishing and the primary objective is to simply protect the fragile springs and surface water ecosystem that sustains the greater area.

Recreational Opportunities

  • Hunting (special regulations)
  • Trapping
  • Hiking
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Fishing
  • Biking - Capital City Trail
  • Pets (dogs must be on leash from April 15-July 31)
  • Geocaching (with property manager approval)
  • Berry picking
  • Bird watching

Contacts/Partners

For questions and comments contact:

Property Manager
Department of Natural Resources
3911 Fish Hatchery Road
Fitchburg WI 53711
608-516-3895

Hatchery Supervisor
Department of Natural Resources
3911 Fish Hatchery Road
Fitchburg WI 53711
608-275-3225

Partners:

Eagle School [exit DNR]