Facility Rules and Policies

When visiting the hatchery, please use foot baths and hand sanitizing stations and keep hands out of the raceways to prevent the spread of fish diseases. Please do not turn on the lights in any rearing areas and do not feed the fish. Dogs are not allowed in the buildings, should be on a leash at all times and be cleaned up after. No fishing is allowed. Bring plenty of drinking water, snacks, insect repellant, sunscreen and other necessities. Dress appropriately for the seasons, wear comfortable walking shoes, etc. 

Hunting

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s goal is to provide compatible wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities on Iron River National Fish Hatchery. The hunt opening at the hatchery also meets the Service’s implementation of Secretarial Order (S.O.) 3347 Conservation Stewardship and Outdoor Recreation and S.O. 3356 Hunting, Fishing, Recreational Shooting and Wildlife Conservation Opportunities and Coordination with States, Tribes and Territories by expanding hunting opportunities and aligning Service regulations with state regulations.

Hunting Regulations

Hunting regulations are designed to provide safe recreational opportunities through wise use of renewable wildlife resources. Hunting is permitted in accordance with federal regulations governing public use on national fish hatcheries as set forth in Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Hunting will be in accordance with applicable State of Wisconsin regulations subject to the conditions stated below. Brochures may be obtained by mail, at the hatchery visitor center or from the hatchery website. For more on hunting seasons and regulations see the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources hunting regulations and hours.

Hunter Safety

All State of Wisconsin hunting and safety regulations apply.

Hunting Access

Hunters may only access the Hatchery two hours before legal sunrise until two hours after legal sunset. Hunters must park in designated parking areas, as identified on the map below, to access the hatchery for hunting.

Firearms

Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national fish hatchery lands must comply with all provisions of state and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with State of Wisconsin laws and regulations.

Vehicles

Licensed motor vehicles are permitted only on public use roads and in designated parking areas.

Accessibility Information

Equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from programs and activities of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is available to all individuals regardless of physical or mental ability. For more information, please contact the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Equal Opportunity.

Prohibited Activities
  • Possession of alcoholic beverages
  • Camping and fires
  • Searching for or removal of any natural items such as antlers, skulls, plants, historic and archaeological features, are protected by Federal law
  • Boats, canoes, kayaks, etc. are prohibited at the hatchery
  • Marking or flagging any tree or other hatchery feature with reflectors, paint or other substances
  • ORV, ATV, UTV or any other mechanized device used for retrieving game or transportation, are prohibited
  • Permanent tree stands, nails, screw-in steps or other items that penetrate the outer bark of a tree are prohibited
  • Hunting is prohibited within 450 feet of any hatchery building or residences