Necedah National Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest public hunting areas near Madison, Wisconsin covering 44,000 acres. Hunters may pursue white-tailed deer, gray and fox squirrel, rabbit, snowshoe hare, ruffed grouse, raccoon, turkey, and waterfowl in accordance with State and Federal regulations. There is no special refuge permit required to hunt on the refuge. However, only specific units of the refuge are open for certain game species. Non-toxic shot is also required on the refuge. Please contact the visitor center for more information: 608-565-2551.
 

Anglers fish the Refuge in accordance with Wisconsin regulations as managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The refuge's fishing brochure provides information on seasons, open and closed areas, and other refuge-specific regulations. The refuge has an accessible fishing pier on Harvey's Pond and on Goose Pool.

All refuge pools are managed as resting and feeding sites for migratory birds, so water levels are periodically lowered in the spring. This limits desirable fish species that inhabit the refuge, such as northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, bullhead, and black crappie.
 

Wildlife viewing, including the observation of plants and other natural features, is the single most popular recreational use of the refuge. The refuge hosts plants and animals that have nearly vanished from the state. It contains two State Natural Areas and harbors the world’s largest population of endangered Karner blue butterflies. The refuge boasts the most abundant red-headed woodpecker population in the state and is home to whooping cranes. Necedah is designated as an Important Bird Area. Take the self-guided auto tour route through the refuge that highlights the most productive wildlife viewing areas, including the Observation Tower, Boghaunter, and Lupine Loop Trails.
 

Necedah National Wildlife Refuge provides a calendar of events that highlights a variety of opportunities throughout the year. Programs and events can include snowshoe hikes, bird walks, the Federal Junior Duck Stamp Contest, youth fishing, waterfowl hunting workshops, and fall nature hikes. These provide a range of opportunities to explore the natural world. Contact the refuge for more information about upcoming programs and the calendar of events at 608-565-2551 or email necedah@fws.gov.
 

The refuge's environmental education program focuses on increasing understanding of the ecological significance of the area and developing a life-long appreciation of habitats and associated biological diversity. Opportunities include hands-on, minds-on field outings great for schools, scouts, and organizations with students of any age. Educational trunks and classroom presentations are also available. We hope that by experiencing the refuge through their natural sense of discovery, students will make important connections with their natural world. All activities are free and include an indoor or outdoor option to avoid poor weather. Contact the refuge to schedule a program: 608-565-2551.

There are outstanding opportunities throughout the year to photograph wildlife on the refuge. The Lupine Loop, Observation Tower and Boghaunter Trails and along public roads in the refuge are prime locations to see deer, turkey and ruffed grouse. The Karner and Muskrat Loop Trails located at the visitor center are exceptional locations to see muskrat, ducks and whooping cranes.

Open to all photographers, the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge Focus Group welcomes all skill levels wanting to learn and to share information. The group meets the fourth Saturday of every month. For additional information call 608-565-2551 or email necedah@fws.gov.