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Protected Wildlife Area · WI

Neillsville Fishery Area

Neillsville Fishery Area is a state-managed natural area in Wisconsin focused on conserving aquatic habitats and providing excellent fishing opportunities amid a mixture of wetlands, hardwood forests, and meadows.

Protected Wildlife Area5004+ Trails

Designation

Protected Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Neillsville Fishery Area

Neillsville Fishery Area is a state-managed natural area in Wisconsin focused on conserving aquatic habitats and providing excellent fishing opportunities amid a mixture of wetlands, hardwood forests, and meadows.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Neillsville Fishery Area is located in Clark County, Wisconsin, encompassing a diversity of habitats that support vibrant fish populations and a variety of wildlife. Covering wetlands, riverine environments, hardwood forests, and open meadows, the area is managed primarily for aquatic and terrestrial habitat conservation. The site lies along the Black River and presents important spawning grounds and refuges for native fish species, including northern pike, bass, and panfish. The terrain consists of gentle river floodplains and mixed forests that offer excellent vantage points for wildlife observation. Birdwatchers can regularly encounter waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors. Come spring, the wetlands teem with amphibians and other aquatic life. Recreational fishing is a primary draw, with established boat launches and shoreline access points providing anglers with multiple options. Hiking around the area’s perimeter trails offers scenic opportunities with occasional views of river bends and wetland expanses. While not as developed as some state parks, the Neillsville Fishery Area offers a quieter, more nature-focused experience. Anglers, naturalists, and photographers find the area appealing, especially during spring and early summer when wildlife activity peaks. The area has a conservation history tied to Wisconsin’s efforts to preserve aquatic ecosystems while providing outdoor recreation. Visitors may also explore nearby historical sites in Clark County and nearby Neillsville town for added regional context. Overall, it’s a location of ecological significance and peaceful outdoor enjoyment centered on fishery and wildlife values.

Field Guide · Protected Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Neillsville Fishery Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Riverside Tranquility at North Fork Eau Claire River★ 7.2⌖ 23 miHiking
North Fork Eau Claire River State Natural Area

Riverside Tranquility at North Fork Eau Claire River

Explore the serene North Fork Eau Claire River State Natural Area near Augusta, WI. Ideal for hiking and wildlife watching, with gentle rapids for canoeing. Best visited in spring or fall, the area promises tranquility and rich plant life for adventure seekers.

Nature's Tranquil Escape: Lowes Creek County Park★ 4.2⌖ 45 miMountain Biking
Lowes Creek County Park

Nature's Tranquil Escape: Lowes Creek County Park

Explore Lowes Creek County Park near Eau Claire, Wisconsin, with its top-notch mountain biking and hiking trails. This serene area offers scenic routes for adventure seekers. Visit in spring or fall to capture the beautiful foliage. Vehicle access is available.

Mountain BikingView Details→
Climbing Sugarloaf in Winona, Minnesota★ 8.2⌖ 63 miClimbing
Sugarloaf

Climbing Sugarloaf in Winona, Minnesota

Explore Sugarloaf in Winona, MN, a distinctive limestone bluff offering challenging climbing routes. Enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River and spot wildlife like falcons. Best visited in spring and fall, this less crowded spot is ideal for adventurers.

Majestic Views of Sugar Loaf Bluff, Winona★ 8.2⌖ 63 miHiking
Sugar Loaf Bluff

Majestic Views of Sugar Loaf Bluff, Winona

Explore the stunning vistas of Sugar Loaf Bluff in Winona, Minnesota. This Rock Formation offers the best hiking trails, rock climbing, and biking adventures in the region, with breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Perfect for thrill-seekers.

Enchanting Pathways: Witches Gulch⌖ 73 miHiking
Witches Gulch

Enchanting Pathways: Witches Gulch

Explore the winding boardwalk through Witches Gulch in Dell Prairie for a unique hiking experience. With easy access and stunning geology, it's perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Best visited in spring or fall with minimal crowds.

Majestic Rock Formations: Dells of the Wisconsin River★ 8.5⌖ 74 miBoat Tours
Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area

Majestic Rock Formations: Dells of the Wisconsin River

Explore the Dells of the Wisconsin River, famous for its sandstone rock formations. Ideal for boat tours, hiking, and rock climbing in spring and fall. Watch for eagles and enjoy the serene settings, though summer can get busy.

Boat ToursView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Access to productive fishing spots on the Black River✦ Diverse wetland habitats supporting migratory birds✦ Quiet, low-impact hiking trails with frequent wildlife sightings✦ Native fish spawning grounds crucial for local ecosystem health
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Neillsville Fishery Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Neillsville Fishery Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Neillsville Fishery Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Neillsville Fishery Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Neillsville Fishery Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Neillsville Fishery Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Neillsville Fishery Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no permits or fees required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Neillsville Fishery Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Neillsville
⌖ 0.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Neillsville, Wisconsin

A friendly small town offering peaceful outdoor experiences with scenic trails, waterways, and seasonal sports in Wisconsin’s Driftless Area.

Late Spring through FallExplore Town
Spencer
⌖ 20.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Spencer, Wisconsin

A quiet, small-town gateway surrounded by rich forests and lakes offering accessible outdoor fun throughout the year.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Black River Falls
⌖ 22.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Black River Falls, Wisconsin

A welcoming small town surrounded by diverse outdoor recreation opportunities including river paddling, forest hiking, and winter sports amid scenic natural areas.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Marshfield
⌖ 22.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marshfield, Wisconsin

A friendly small town surrounded by forests, lakes, and rivers offering a peaceful outdoor adventure base with access to hiking, paddling, biking, and snow sports.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Augusta
⌖ 27.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Augusta, Wisconsin

A serene Midwestern town offering access to outdoor exploration and quiet adventures across forests, lakes, and trails.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Arpin
⌖ 27.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Arpin, Wisconsin

A quiet rural town offering peaceful access to forests, trails, and waterways, perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path outdoor activities in central Wisconsin.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowmobiling and skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Neillsville Fishery Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.