French Creek Wildlife Area

French Creek Wildlife Area is a 3,450 acre property located in Columbia County. Find it 6 miles northeast of Portage on Hwy. F. Disjunct ownership in towns of Fort Winnebago and Marcellon in Columbia County and town of Buffalo in Marquette County..

Property History

Prior to the establishment of the state wildlife area in 1947, the marsh land was once devoted to the production of “wire-grass”, a native plant used in the manufacturing of grass rugs and matting and later was subject to grazing and the occasional harvest of wild hay by farmers. Early settlers regularly hunted prairie chicken in the French Creek area. Today the property is primarily managed to focus on waterfowl production and hunting opportunities.

Currently, the main French Creek flowage is on a 5 year drawdown rotation. The wetland is periodically drawn down to promote seed bearing plants (such as wild rice and smartweed) to provide a fall migration food source for waterfowl. This also provides habitat for other birds, such as egrets, herons and shorebirds.

Recreation Opportunities

The following recreational opportunities exist at French Creek Wildlife Area:

Hunting - deer (DMU 67A), turkey (zone 3), pheasant, waterfowl, rabbit, squirrel - waterfowl closed area Trapping Hiking Berry picking Cross country skiing

Wildlife Viewing Fishing Bird watching Canoeing

Additional Information

Download [PDF 211KB] a map of this property.

Useful Links:

• French Creek Fen State Natural Area (located within French Creek Wildlife Area)
• Hunting in Wisconsin
• Hunting and Trapping Regulations
• Season Dates
• Columbia County Information [Exit DNR]
• Plan your trip to Columbia County [Exit DNR]

For more information on French Creek Wildlife Area contact the property manager.

Questions for Wildlife Management