White River Fisheries Area

White River Fisheries Area is a 10,754 acre property located along the White River from south of Delta in Bayfield County to 3 miles south of Ashland in Ashland County. It is riverine habitat transitioning from wooded headwaters, through grassy swamp and steep clay banks, to a small impoundment. Sajdak Springs State Natural Area is embedded within the property boundary.

History of Management

The White River Fisheries Area was established in 1961 to manage and protect this unique and scenic trout stream and watershed. This multiple use area is dedicated to trout fishing, hunting, canoeing and other compatible outdoor recreational and educational opportunities. Numerous feeder streams, spring ponds, and outlet flows of several glacial lakes provide the high quality water for this outstanding trout stream.

In 2004 the project boundary was expanded by more than 6,500 acres to protect the river corridor between existing DNR managed properties. The so-called Expansion Area connects the 10,000 acre Bibon Swamp State Natural Area in Bayfield County with the 960 acre White River Wildlife Area in Ashland County. While some purchases of land and easements have been made, this Expansion Area is still predominantly privately owned.

Friends of the White River

The Friends of the White River citizens involvement committee exists to serve as an informational resource for White River landowners and river users, as an advocate for the protection and preservation of the White River, and as an advisory group to the DNR regarding the management of any state-acquired land in the newly expanded White River Fisheries Area segment of the watershed. For more information contact White River Citizen Involvement Committee, P.O. Box 1033, Ashland, WI 54806.

Recreation Opportunities

The following recreational opportunities exist at White River Fisheries Area:

Hunting - all types Trapping Hiking Snowmobiling Trail Pets (Note) Swimming

Auto travel Berry picking, etc… Wildlife Viewing Fishing Bird watching Canoeing

Additional Information

Download [PDF 500KB] a map of this property.

Useful Links:

• Hunting in Wisconsin
• Trapping in Wisconsin
• Hunting and Trapping Regulations
• Season Dates
• Bayfield County Information [Exit DNR]
• Plan your trip to Bayfield County [Exit DNR]

For more information on White River Fisheries Area contact the property manager.

Questions for Wildlife Management