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Webster Wildlife Area encompasses 8,018 acres of public hunting surrounding 1,481 surface acres of water. A variety of wildlife habitats are developed and maintained to enhance wildlife. Situated along the shores of Webster Reservoir, the area offers hunting, fishing, limited camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Reservoir is located 9 miles west of Stockton, just off highway 24.
Primary sportfish include walleye, wipers, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. Smallmouth bass, white bass, and bluegill also provide fine angling opportunities at times.
Seasonal rainbow trout fisheries are maintained in the stilling basin below the dam and in the river directly above the reservoir. Trout are stocked in the stilling basin several times each trout season and are stocked in the river in March of each year when flows are adequate.
Special facilities include an electric fish cleaning station on the north shore of the state park, floating fishing docks in Marina Cove and the Rock Point Cove (when water levels are adequate), and an easy access ramp and pier in the stilling basin.
Length Limits:
Catch and Release: A major factor affecting fish populations is angler harvest. Fishing success continues to improve with better knowledge and equipment. As a result, more restrictive regulations are needed. Voluntary catch and release also extends a limited fish resource. Reduced harvest of small fish allows more fish to reach a larger, more desirable size. Releasing larger fish increases their recreational use and keeps them in the water to help control undesirable fish by predation. A fish released properly is an investment in future fishing opportunities.
Hunting pressure can be heavy on the wildlife area. Hunts after November and during mid-week may be less crowded. Primary game species include pheasants, quail, deer, turkey, and waterfowl. Hunter-use surveys are conducted to evaluate management practices. Hunter participation in these surveys is important.
An area is open to vehicle access for the disabled persons through a special permit. Contact the Webster Area Office for details.
The waterfowl refuge is closed to all activities between November 1 and January 31.
Special hunts, intended to provide a quality opportunity, are available at Webster. To learn more about and to apply for these and other special hunts offered throughout the state, see the Special Hunts Brochure available in June on the Special Hunts Information page. Applications must be submitted by July 1 each year.
The adjacent State Park offers modern and primitive camping sites the year-round. Camping with vehicle access on the wildlife area is limited to four designated areas. The areas are free, and you must take your trash with you.
Four boat ramps provide access for area users; three in the state park and one in the Wildlife Area. At low water levels, only the boat ramp in Rock Point Campground in the State Park is usable.
The area offers excellent opportunities to view and photograph deer, bald eagles, pheasants, ducks, and more.
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