Cherokee Marsh Fishery Area

Cherokee Marsh Fishery Area is a 990 acre property 3 miles North of Madison. From the intersection of U.S. Hwy. 51 and I-90-94, go south on Hwy. 51 0.1 mile, then west on Daentl Road, at the truck stop, 0.25 mile, then west on Buckley Road 0.75 mile to a parking lot.

The property consists of approximately 385 acres of marsh, wet prairie, and sedge meadow; 350 acres of shrub carr; 50 acres small woodlots; 115 acres upland grassland; and 90 acres open water.

Cherokee Marsh Fishery Area offers a diverse range of outdoor recreational activities. In addition to the diverse hunting opportunities, the Fishery Area is popular with canoeists and kayakers who enjoy fishing and wetland wildlife viewing.

History of Management

Cherokee Marsh Fishery Area began with the first acquisition in 1967. The DNR property is a part of the over 2000 acre Cherokee Marsh. In addition to the state owned land, Cherokee Marsh is protected through large holdings by the City of Madison and Dane County Parks. The Yahara River and Token Creek flow through the marsh on their way to Lake Mendota 3 miles to the southwest.

Today, management activities include brushing, burning, and grassland restoration.

Recreation Opportunities

The following recreational opportunities exist at Cherokee Marsh Fishery Area:

Hunting - deer, waterfowl, pheasant, small game Trapping Hiking Wildlife Viewing

Fishing Bird watching Canoeing

Additional Information

Download [PDF 246KB] a map of this property.

Useful Links:

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

For more information on Cherokee Marsh Fishery Area contact the property manager.

Questions for Wildlife Management