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Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area

Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area

Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area is over 3,600 acres in size and located in east central Waushara County on the western shore of Lake Poygan. Access to the wildlife area is available from several town roads or by boat from Lake Poygan. Most of the area is open marsh or bottomland timber. The Pine River, Pumpkinseed Creek and Willow Creek all terminate in Lake Poygan through the wildlife area.

Hunting opportunities include waterfowl, deer, coyote and other small game. Trapping is very accessible along the several miles of dikes. Excellent birding opportunities exist year-round due to the size and variety of habitat.

Management Objectives

Prior to state ownership, several parcels were managed for trapping. Ditches were constructed and the spoils placed next to the open ditches. This created habitat for muskrat, mink, otter and beaver. Many of these old ditch banks still provide walk in access to portions of the property. One impoundment area is maintained to provide water level management. This impoundment has recently been renovated to manage vegetation and provide habitat for migratory waterfowl and other non-game species.

Recreation

The Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:

  • Birding;
  • Canoeing;
  • Cross-country skiing (no designated trail);
  • Hiking;
  • Hunting;
  • Trapping;
  • Wild edibles/gathering; and
  • Wildlife viewing.

Maps

Download [PDF] a map of this property.

If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.

Find out more about how to adopt this wildlife area.