Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area

Located in northeastern Indiana along the border with Michigan, Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area spans rolling woodlands, wetlands, and open fields, centered around the course of the Pigeon River. Established in 1956, it covers approximately 12,200 acres managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to protect and enhance habitats for wildlife species including waterfowl, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various fish species. The area provides a mix of mature hardwood forests, wet prairies, and marshes that support both game and non-game species, making it a popular site for hunters, anglers, and bird watchers. Key recreational activities include upland game hunting, particularly waterfowl and pheasant, with well-maintained shooting ranges and public hunting areas. Anglers fish in the Pigeon River and several lakes stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, and trout. Multiple trails wind through the area, offering hiking, wildlife observation, and cross-country skiing in winter months. The area is especially noted for its fall migration birdwatching opportunities. Land management focuses on improving habitat diversity through controlled burns, timber management, and wetland restoration. The facility has a visitor center that provides educational materials about wildlife conservation and local ecosystems. Visitors come for both active recreation and the chance to experience relatively undeveloped natural landscapes near urban centers like LaGrange and Steuben counties.