Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area

 

Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area is dedicated to providing quality hunting and fishing opportunities while maintaining 3,500 acres of land, with 650 acres of lakes and impoundments. This area is composed of flat to rolling upland fields and gradual to steep slopes of oak-hickory woodlands, falling off to depressions of wetlands. Tri-County includes 10 natural lakes with water depths of 75 feet.

There is an abundance of wildlife which is a bonanza for photographers.  It is not uncommon to see whole herds of deer gazing in the fields or walking through the woods.  Many local residents enjoy driving through the area during the early evening or morning hours hoping to see deer and other wildlife.

Excellent fishing is provided in 10 of the lakes.  Shock, Goldeneye, Price, Long, Barrel, Rothenberger, Allen and Hammond all have boat access.

Northern pike have been stocked in Hammond, Allen, Rothenberger, Shock, Spear and Barrel. Channel catfish were placed in Long, Price and Goldeneye Lakes.

For those interested in trout fishing, Wyland has been stocked with both rainbows and browns.

Only electric trolling motors are permitted on the lakes. Camping and open fires are not permitted in the area.  Swimming is also not permitted in the Tri-County Wildlife Area.

There is no special charges for fishermen to use the lakes and no check-in is required.  All other state wildlife and fishing regulations are in effect through the Wildlife Area.

 

History and Funding

Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area was established in 1951. By 1953, formal management of the property was underway. In 1963, a dam was constructed at the outlet of six natural lakes, creating Flatbelly Marsh. This wetland is an important area for migratory waterfowl, furbearers, shorebirds and fish.

 

Most revenues used in land acquisition, development, operation and maintenance of Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area are derived from the sale of hunting, fishing and trapping licenses. Funds are also received from the federal Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson programs to aid fish and wildlife restoration. These funds are derived from taxes levied on sport hunting and fishing equipment. Indiana hunters and fishermen are proud to provide this property for the enjoyment of all people.