Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area
Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area is in eastern Waushara County on the west shore of Lake Poygan. Currently, 3,570 acres are state-owned. Access to the wildlife area is available from several town roads or by boat from Lake Poygan. The Pine River, Willow Creek and Pumpkinseed Creek flow through the wetland complex to their mouths at Lake Poygan.
The area is known historically for the vast shallow marshes that attracted large flocks of waterfowl, especially canvasback ducks. Today, the most extensive plant community is a high-quality sedge meadow and shrub marsh complex between the Pine River and Pumpkinseed Creek. Wild rice is scattered throughout the property, and it is especially abundant at the mouths of the Pine River and Willow Creek.
Early management efforts involved the construction of perimeter impoundments and level ditching to promote waterfowl and furbearer production. Today, much of this infrastructure remains and provides recreational access to the property and opportunities for public hunting, especially waterfowl and white-tailed deer. Trapping is very accessible along the several miles of dikes. Excellent birding opportunities exist year-round due to the size and variety of habitats.
Management Objectives
The Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area is managed to provide opportunities for public hunting, fishing, trapping and other outdoor recreation while protecting the qualities of the unique native communities and associated species found on the property. Current habitat management is focused on wetland restoration, favoring projects that restore natural hydrological function. Historical infrastructure will be modified to improve the ecological function of wetlands and provide recreational opportunities.
Forested habitats are less extensive in the wildlife area. Forest management objectives are to maintain approximately 400 acres of swamp hardwoods habitat. The emerald ash borer is present on the property and is expected to have an impact on the structure and species composition of the forests.
Recreation
The Poygan Marsh Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:
- Birding
- Boating (motorized and non-motorized)
- Canoeing
- Cross-country skiing (no designated trail)
- Fishing
- Hiking (no designated trail)
- Hunting (noted for waterfowl and deer)
- Kayaking
- Trapping
- Wild edibles/gathering
- Wildlife viewing
Amenities
- Bathroom? No.
- Parking lot? Yes, see the maps section for more details.
- Campground? No.
- Trails? No.
Maps
Download [PDF] a map of this property.
If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.
Directions
Disclaimer: The DNR cannot guarantee the usage of every parking lot, as parking lots can close suddenly and for a variety of reasons. Weather, local water levels and county road closures may impact parking lot availability.
Find out more about how to adopt this wildlife area.