Horicon Marsh Activities
Nature Study
As most visitors know, Horicon Marsh supports a vast array of wildlife. With such abundant populations of mammals, fish, birds, and other animals, there is always something to watch, pursue, and learn about. Through your own explorations or by participating in the public naturalist programs, Horicon is sure to contain some of natures mysteries and intrigue for everyone.
More information on education programs...
Hiking
For those without canoes, trails are available which offer a good view of the area and nice paths from which to explore the marsh. In spring and particularly the fall season, visitors come to walk among the woods and marsh. Maps and other visitor information is available at the DNR Headquarters.
More on hiking at Horicon...
Birding
Today, more and more people are taking to nature observation to enjoy our wildlife and learn about it. Birds have always been an attraction and fascinating to watch. With over 290 species of birds having been recorded on the marsh, they in turn attract many birdwatchers.
Download the Horicon Marsh Bird Checklist - Status and Seasonal Distribution [PDF 171KB]
More birding information...
Canoeing
With so much water out there and the many channels and ditches that traverse the marsh, canoeing is one of the finest ways to explore Horicon. This is especially productive and enjoyable in the spring, before the insects hatch, and in the fall, before the hunting season. Explore the marsh, but be aware of closed areas and the electrical fish barriers at the dams. Please do not disturb any nesting birds which you might encounter. Canoe rentals are available in the City of Horicon.
More information about canoeing at Horicon...
Hunting
The hunting tradition at Horicon is well ingrained in many of its visitors. As a managed wildlife area, hunting opportunities exist for the taking of ducks, geese, deer, pheasant, and small game. Please check at the DNR Headquarters for hunting seasons, bag limits, closed areas, or other current regulations.
More information on hunting at Horicon...
Trapping
Abundant muskrat populations are kept in check through a regulated trapping program. They and other furbearers are trapped via special contracts. Check at DNR headquarters for information on the trapping and trapper education programs.
Fishing
The Rock River supports fine fishing opportunities for many people. Northern pike, panfish, and other species are to be found in the river and channels of the marsh. When carp were introduced into Wisconsin waters, they invariably found their way into the marsh. Control measures are in effect in order to reduce the carp and maintain good populations of more desirable species.
More on fishing in Wisconsin...
Biking
The Wild Goose Trail [Exit DNR] has been developed on a former railroad grade which spans from Fond du Lac to south of Juneau, for a total of 34 miles. The trail is surfaced with compacted limestone screenings and offers smooth riding. Additional biking is available on county roads around the perimeter of the Horicon Marsh.
Photo and Observation Blinds
Two blinds for wildlife observation and photography have been set up at the Bachhuber Flowage, adjacent to the DNR Service Center on Hwy 28. These blinds were constructed and donated to Horicon Marsh as part of a local Eagle Scout project. The blinds offer a great opportunity to view the wetland habitat and its wildlife and are free of charge.
To reserve the blinds for your use, please contact the DNR Service Center by calling 920-387-7860.
Winter Sports
The Horicon Marsh has something to offer at any time of the year. In this quiet season, the area can be enjoyed on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
Contact Information
Bill Volkert
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area
N7728 Hwy 28
Horicon, WI 53032
(920) 387-7860
Questions for Wildlife Management
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