How Many Fish & Wildlife Areas Have You Visited?

The 23 Fish & Wildlife Areas across the state have multiple ways to enjoy the outdoors. Put on your walking shoes. Grab a fishing rod. Pack up your canoes and kayaks. Don your snorkeling gear. Bring a picnic.

Experience birds in their natural habitat! While feeders are down, get out with your binoculars, cameras, field guides and apps.

West Central Indiana has three great properties to explore. Deer Creek Fish & Wildlife Area is located in Putnam County.

The property was originally a farm for the Putnamville Correctional Facility. Remnants of old buildings and roads dot the more than 2,000 acres. Deer Creek runs through the property. A four-acre fishing pond is stocked with bass, bluegill and catfish.

Chinook Fish & Wildlife Area is in western Clay County. The area is former surface-mined land. Grasslands, woods and 80 acres of water comprise the property. Boat ramps are located at six strip pits.

Wabashiki Fish & Wildlife Area runs along the Wabash River in Vigo County. Pond and shoreline fishing, wildlife viewing and birdwatching are some of the popular activities. Explore the Phenology Trail and learn about recurring patterns in nature.

Visiting these properties is free. Visitors must pick up a one-day permit from check stations near entrances to the properties, and return the permit to the drop-box before leaving. Fish & Wildlife Areas are also open for hunting during regular seasons. Be aware of these dates. Appropriate hunting and fishing licenses are required.

Many Fish & Wildlife Areas and DNR properties have volunteer opportunities. Contact properties for more information.

Indiana’s conservation efforts of fish and wildlife resources predates the Civil War. Today, the Division of Fish & Wildlife manages 164,000 acres of public land. Treat yourself and visit these properties!