Dexter Marsh
Wildlife Management Area
Overview
Situated seven miles west of Watertown, just off Route 180, at the head of the Black River Bay, Dexter Marsh is strictly a wetland area consisting of lands primarily underwater. Easily accessible from three state boat launching facilities; Perch River off Co Rt 59, Muskellunge Creek on State Route 180 and Lloyds Landing off Old Military Road. This 1350-acre marsh is a popular fish and waterfowl area. Northern pike, bass and panfish are found in the shallow to deep water, and a variety of ducks utilize the sparse cattail marsh which characterizes this Lake Ontario bay. Canada geese are often seen during their migration. Spring time bullhead fishing is always popular at the Perch River Fishing Access site, just out of Dexter on the Doane (Co Rt 59) road. There is a small dock at Muskellunge Creek Fishing Access site. There is a spacious parking lot at Lloyds Landing shadowed by a large oak tree. A boat is necessity here and all types of small boats are permitted.
The area receives a good amount of use by the public for bird watching, bald eagles are occasionally seen over the marsh.
Restricted Activities
General restrictions on WMA's can be found in the Title 6, NYCRR, Part 51, Section 51.1 through 51.6. The use of snowmobiles and all terrain vehicles is prohibited on the WMA by posted notice. Camping is allowed by permit only from the Wildlife Manager.
| Upland | No |
|---|---|
| Wetland | Yes |
| Hiking Trails* | No |
| Nature Trails* | No |
| Accessible features for people with disabilities | No |
| Boat Access | Yes |
| Parking Lot | Yes |
| Viewing Tower | No |
| Scenic Vistas | Yes |
| Picnic Areas | No |
| Restrooms | No |
| Birdwatching | Yes |
| Camping | No |
| X-Country Skiing | No |
| Snowshoeing | No |
| Hunting | Yes |
| Fishing | Yes |
| Trapping | Yes |
| Endangered Species | Yes |
| Unusual Plants | Yes |
* A nature trail can be used as a hiking trail. In addition to allowing hiking, a nature trail usually has printed information along the trail and often has a printed brochure available.
