The area is a magnet for migrating Canadas when the weather cooperates, but if the marsh is frozen, shotgunners may be better off going elsewhere. If there's open water, geese often concentrate here in huge numbers, and the action can be fast and furious.

Numbers of harvested birds have been good in recent years. The second segment of the goose season is usually the best because that's when migrating honkers arrive. And as long as the open water holds, the geese will stay on the area.

Metzger Marsh WA is 13 miles east of Toledo and adjacent to the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. It covers 558 acres. A boat ramp connected by a slip to Wards Canal provides access to the bay.

Metzger Marsh may be reached off state Route 2 by following Bone Road.

The area is managed by the Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area. Call them at (440) 685-4776, or try the ODOW's District Two office at (419) 424-5000. For additional information, contact the ODOW's District Three office at (330) 644-2293.

Wildlife area maps are available online at the ODOW's Web site at www.dnr.state.oh.us/wildlife.

The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District may be reached at 1-877-363-8500, or go online to www.mwcdlakes.com.

Information on places to stay is available from the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism at 1-800- BUCKEYE (800-282-5393), or online at www.discoverohio.com.

Find more about Ohio fishing and hunting at OhioGameandFish.com