Horicon Marsh Boat Tours, established in 1963 by the Roland Zuelsdorf family, is now owned and operated by his oldest son Marc, along with his wife and three children.

The business began with a small pontoon boat that held just eight passengers. Then in 1965, 1966 and 1988 larger boats that seated twenty-four passengers each were added to the operation. Only having our one-hour narrated tour at this time helped people to observe the birds, animals and plant-life that inhabited the marsh.

In 1984, the tour business purchased the Canoe Outfitters property, combining the two, forming Blue Heron Landing. This gave visitors another alternative to seeing the Horicon Marsh, with the rental of a canoe. Knowing not everyone is able to canoe, in 1991 we developed our two-hour Rookery Tour. This bird watching tour included a visit to the largest Heron and Egret rookery in the state of Wisconsin. By 1996 run-off from the surrounding fields and lower water levels prevented us from reaching the rookery and as a result began offering our two-hour Birding Tour.

2001 was the first year we offered kayak rental. This offers yet another opportunity for visitors to enjoy the serenity of Horicon Marsh at there own leisure.

In 2007, Horicon Marsh Boat Tours was recognized for their ongoing commitment to the environment when they became the first business in Dodge County to receive Travel Green Wisconsin certification.

Spring, summer and fall, the marsh is a hive of activity as its inhabitants go about their daily activities. The majestic American Egret glides effortlessly over the treetops... in the distance a Blue Heron calls...a muskrat scoots to the top of his house and looks at the world around him...the Black Crown Night Heron gazes intently as you glide silently by...your keen sense of smell picks up the fragrance of the trees and wild flowers.

For the photographer, sightseer, birder and nature lover, or if you just like to loaf, look and listen, the Horicon Marsh will open up new avenues of enjoyment for you and all who would come to enjoy its treasures.

Please visit our Gift Shop and see what we have to offer!

Your Hosts,
Marc & Gayl Zuelsdorf
Blue Heron Landing