Explore the Mississippi River at Fountain City

Just off Highway 35, on the south side of Fountain City, you will find an easy access boat landing with ample parking and suitable ramps to launch your kayak, canoe or motor boat. Coming from central Wisconsin, we drove 95 that runs the ridges of the driftless region and offers beautiful views of the farmland - an added bonus for this excursion.

As a family of four looking to enjoy the water for the day, we were extremely disappointed with the blatant and reckless behaviors of many boaters. So please use caution, especially for those using paddle power. 

We ventured both  up a back slough towards Merrick State Park and into the Kiesselhorse Bay to find quieter territory. These areas kept the jigs busy with perch and bluegills hitting constantly, and ultimately provided a filling shore lunch of blackened fillets.

There are great spots to make land and relax, swim or dig your toes in the sand. The current can be very strong, so finding a protected, calmer area may be important. You will find opportunities to camp along the shores as well.  Besides the plentiful people, we did spot a coyote on a beach edge scouring for lunch, a pair of eagles soaring over the bay and a single eagle taking flight.

Overall our day on the River fulfilled the expectations for fish, fun and sun.