Hale Slough borders the east edge of Spirit Lake where fishing is excellent. Over 21 million fish are stocked annually: and Walleye, Muskie, Northern, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie and Yellow Perch make up the 150,000 fish harvested annually. Hale Slough is located near the 3,500 shoreline acres of bulrush beds now protected from development which provide excellent fish and bird nesting sites.

Pothole Birding

This marshy area provides habitat for nesting and migratory waterfowl, rails, herons, Marsh Wrens, Common Yellowthroats, Cedar Waxwings, Eastern Wood Peewees, woodpeckers, nuthatches, Brown Creepers, warblers, and vireos. Muskrat and Beaver are also plentiful.

Location Description

The paved road into the park is a nice shady drive and affords visitors the opportunity to bird watch from their vehicle. A short hiking trail also provides a spot for checking out the woodland species. A dock and boat ramp allows easy access to the area. Hunting is allowed.

Driving Directions and other Information

• 3.5 mi. N from Hwy 9 on M56, Northeast of city of Orleans on the east side of Spirit Lake
• GPS Coordinants -- N43deg28.262 WO95deg03.732
• 242 acres of DNR land
• Birding, Canoe/Kayak, Hiking, Hunting

• Plant Zone activity