Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
Final rule.
We are adding certain national wildlife refuges (refuges) to the list of areas open for hunting and/or sport fishing, along with pertinent refuge-specific regulations for such activities; and amend certain regulations on other refuges that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 1999–2000 season.
This rule is effective May 12, 2000.
Leslie A. Marler, (703) 358–2397; Fax (703) 358–2248.
The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (NWRSAA) closes national wildlife refuges to hunting and sport fishing until we open them by rulemaking. The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) may open refuge areas to hunting and/or fishing upon a determination that such uses are compatible with the purposes of the refuge. The action also must be in accordance with provisions of all laws applicable to the areas, must be consistent with the principles of sound fish and wildlife management and administration, and otherwise must be in the public interest. These requirements ensure that we maintain the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the National Wildlife Refuge System (System) for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
We review refuge hunting and fishing programs annually to determine whether to add additional refuges or whether individual refuge regulations governing existing programs need modifications, deletions, or additions made to them. Changing environmental conditions, State and Federal regulations, and other factors affecting wildlife populations and habitat may warrant modifications ensuring the continued compatibility of hunting and fishing programs and that these programs will not materially interfere with or detract from the fulfillment of the mission of the System or the purposes of the refuge.
You may find provisions governing hunting and fishing on national wildlife refuges in 50 CFR part 32. We regulate hunting and fishing on refuges to:
• Ensure compatibility;
• Properly manage the fish and wildlife resource;
• Protect other refuge values; and
• ensure refuge user safety.
On many refuges, our general policy of adopting regulations identical to State hunting and fishing regulations is adequate in meeting these objectives. On other refuges, it is necessary to supplement State regulations with more restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that we meet our management responsibilities, as outlined under the section entitled “Statutory Authority.” We issue refuge-specific hunting and fishing regulations when we open wildlife refuges to either migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, or sport fishing. These regulations list the wildlife species that you may hunt or those species subject to sport fishing, seasons, bag limits, methods of hunting or fishing, descriptions of open areas, and other provisions as appropriate. You may find previously issued, refuge-specific regulations for hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32. We are promulgating many of the amendments to these sections to standardize and clarify the existing language of these regulations.
Some refuges may make seasonal information available in brochures or leaflets to supplement these refuge-specific regulations, which we provide for in 50 CFR 25.31.
We are making several corrections to 50 CFR:
• In 50 CFR 32.71 Pacific Islands Territory, we are changing the section heading to read “United States unincorporated Pacific insular possessions” with two refuges: Johnston Atoll National Wildlife Refuge and Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. We moved Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge to Hawaii (§ 32.30), and we moved Guam National Wildlife Refuge to a new section § 32.72 Guam.
• We are eliminating redundant refuge-specific regulations for Ohio River National Wildlife Refuge that we currently list in the States of Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Kentucky. We will list Ohio River National Wildlife Refuge in West Virginia. Pennsylvania and Kentucky will refer the reader to West Virginia for refuge-specific regulations.
In this rule the vast majority of the revisions to the individual refuge units are to comply with a Presidential mandate to use plain language in regulations and do not modify the substance of the previous restrictions. These types of changes include using “you” to refer to the reader and “we” to refer to the Service and using the word “allow” instead of “permit” when we do not require the use of a permit for an activity. Only a handful of refuge-specific regulations contain the substantive changes discussed below.
In 50 CFR part 32, we provide for the prohibition of the possession of toxic shot in the field on Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs) and certain other areas (refuges or areas within refuges) of the System. We delineated these areas on maps, leaflets, and/or signs (available at each refuge headquarters or posted at each refuge) or as stated in refuge-specific regulations. Where we allow turkey and deer hunting, you may use slugs and shot containing lead to hunt these species unless prohibited by refuge-specific regulations and/or State law.
We specifically identify the shot allowed in areas of the System by reference to the shot identified in 50 CFR 20.21(j). We sometimes grant new shot types conditional approvals until we complete all necessary studies. These conditional approvals change yearly, and we add new shot types to our approved list as they meet our criteria. To avoid any confusion, we amend
We will not be making a decision on the establishment of lead-free fishing areas in this final rule. We will address this issue in a separate final rule at a later date.
In the August 11, 1999, issue of the
In all we received 37 comments from the proposed rule: 1 State conservation agency; 4 non-government organizations; and 32 individuals. Nearly all the comments were concerning refuges allowing hunting. We addressed multiple comments from some commenters individually.
Funding is just one of the factors that we consider when applying sound professional judgment as part of determining compatibility for hunting programs.
State regulations do not govern all aspects of our hunting programs, rather we work in partnership with the States. For example, with migratory bird hunting, the States step down Federal harvest and implementation regulations for establishing hunting seasons and bag limits. In turn, we evaluate State regulations based on local population surveys and adjust our hunting seasons and bag limits accordingly. When evaluating the State regulations, if we need provide no further restrictions, then we adopt regulations identical to the State regulations. On some refuges it may be necessary to supplement the State regulations with more restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that we meet our management responsibilities as outlined under the section entitled “Statutory Authority” in the rule.
This rule is effective upon publication. We have determined that any further delay in implementing these refuge-specific hunting and sport fishing regulations would not be in the public interest in that a delay would hinder the effective planning and administration of the hunting and fishing programs. We provided a 30-day comment period for the August 11, 1999 proposed rule. An additional 30-day delay would jeopardize holding the hunting and/or fishing programs this year or shorten their duration and thereby lessen the management effectiveness of this regulation. Therefore, we find good cause under 5 U.S.C. 553(d) to make this rule effective upon publication.
The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA) of 1966 as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (16 U.S.C. 668dd–668ee) and the Refuge Recreation Act (RRA) of 1962 (16 U.S.C. 460k–460k–4), govern the administration and public use of national wildlife refuges.
The National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act (NWRSIA) is the latest amendment to the NWRSAA. It amends and builds upon the NWRSAA in a manner that provides an improved “Organic Act” for the Refuge System similar to those that exist for other public lands. It serves to ensure that we effectively manage the System as a national system of lands, waters, and interests for the protection and conservation of our nation's wildlife resources. The NWRSAA states first and foremost that we focus the mission of the System on conservation of fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitat. This Act requires the Secretary, before initiating or permitting a new use of a refuge, or before expanding, renewing, or extending an existing use of a refuge, to determine that the use is a compatible use and not inconsistent with public safety. The NWRSIA establishes as the policy of the United States that wildlife-dependent recreation, when it is compatible, is a legitimate and appropriate public use of the Refuge System, through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife. The NWRSIA establishes six compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the Refuge System. Those priority uses are: hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education, and interpretation.
The RRA authorizes the Secretary to administer areas within the System for public recreation as an appropriate incidental or secondary use only to the extent that it is practicable and not inconsistent with the primary purpose(s) for which we established the areas. This Act requires that any recreational use of refuge lands be compatible with the primary purposes for which we established the refuge and not inconsistent with other previously authorized operations.
The NWRSAA and RRA also authorize the Secretary to issue regulations to carry out the purposes of the Acts and regulate uses.
We develop hunting and sport fishing plans for each existing refuge prior to opening it to hunting or fishing. In many cases, we develop refuge-specific regulations to ensure the compatibility of the programs with the purposes for which we established the refuge. We have ensured initial compliance with the NWRSAA and the RRA for hunting and sport fishing on newly acquired refuges through an interim determination of compatibility made at the time of acquisition. This policy ensures that we make the determinations required by these acts prior to adding refuges to the lists of areas open to hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32. We ensure continued compliance by the development of Comprehensive Conservation Plans, long-term hunting and sport fishing plans, and by annual review of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations.
In preparation for new openings, we include the following documents in the refuges' “openings package” for Regional review and approval from the Washington Office: an interim hunting and fishing management plan; a Section 7 determination pursuant to the Endangered Species Act that these openings will have no effect, or are not likely to have an adverse effect, on listed species or critical habitats; a letter
We allow the following wildlife-dependent recreational activities for the first time:
Hunting of migratory game birds:
• Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, North Carolina
• Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer, Oregon
• Plum Tree Island National Wildlife Refuge, Virginia
St. Croix Wetland Management District, Wisconsin
Big game hunting on:
• Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia
• St. Croix Wetland Management District, Wisconsin
Upland game hunting on:
• St. Croix Wetland Management District, Wisconsin
Sport fishing on:
• Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia
• J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge, North Dakota
• Tewaukon National Wildlife Refuge, North Dakota
• Stewart Lake National Wildlife Refuge, North Dakota
• Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge, North Dakota
• Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer, Oregon
• Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon
• ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge, South Carolina
In accordance with NWRSAA and the RRA, we have determined that these openings are compatible and consistent with the primary purposes for which we established the refuge.
We are adding refuges to the list of areas open for hunting and/or sport fishing, along with pertinent refuge-specific regulations for such activities. We amend certain regulations for other refuges that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 1999–2000 season. On many refuges, our policy of adopting regulations identical to State regulations is adequate in meeting National Wildlife Refuge System objectives. On other refuges, it is necessary to supplement State regulations with more restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that we meet our management responsibilities, as outlined under the section entitled “Statutory Authority” in the rule. We issue refuge-specific regulations when opening a national wildlife refuge or modifying the various uses of a refuge, and for all hunting or sport fishing. These regulations list the prohibited uses, limited uses, and those activities that are available without restriction. They also list those wildlife species that you may hunt or fish for along with the respective seasons, bag limits, methods of hunting or fishing, descriptions of open areas, and other provisions as appropriate. We promulgate many of the amendments here to provide greater restriction and clarify the existing regulation language, which should result in fewer violations of refuge regulations.
This document is not a significant rule subject to Office of Management and Budget review under Executive Order 12866. See explanation under Regulatory Flexibility Act.
a. This rule will not have an annual economic effect of $100 million or adversely affect an economic sector, productivity, jobs, the environment, or other units of government. A cost-benefit and economic analysis is not required. This rule is administrative, legal, technical, and procedural in nature and makes minor modification to existing refuge public use programs. The rule will allow hunting on five refuges where we had prohibited hunting and allow fishing on eight refuges where we had prohibited that activity. We estimate that these changes will result in 11,900 additional visitor-hunting-days and 165,300 visitor-fishing-days. The appropriate measure for the net benefits of these changes is the additional net economic value experienced by the participants. The 1996 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation measured net economic values by activity and region. Applying these estimates to the number of additional activity-days permitted by this rule yields an estimate of the national benefits from increased hunting of $160,000 and from increased fishing of $2.6 million. These estimates are below the threshold for a significant rule.
The addition of the term “approved” to the nontoxic shot regulations is for clarification purposes, and we do not expect it to affect hunters' behavior. It has no economic effects.
b. This rule will not create inconsistencies with other agencies' actions. We coordinate recreational use on national wildlife refuges with State governments as well as other Federal agencies having adjoining or overlapping jurisdiction before proposing regulations. The regulation is consistent with, and not less restrictive than, other agencies' rules.
c. This rule will not materially affect entitlements, grants, user fees, loan programs, or the rights and obligations of their recipients. The provisions of this rule only apply to persons involved in wildlife-dependent public use including regulated hunting and sport fishing on national wildlife refuges, which is a privilege and not a right. User fees will not change as a result of this rule.
d. This rule will not raise novel legal or policy issues. This rule continues the practice of requiring public use of refuges to be compatible with the primary purpose of the refuge.
The Department of the Interior certifies that this rule will not have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities such as businesses, organizations, and governmental jurisdictions in the area as defined under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601
This rulemaking will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. Congress created the National Wildlife Refuge System to conserve fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats. They facilitated this conservation mission by providing Americans opportunities to visit and participate in compatible wildlife-dependent recreation, including hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation as priority public uses on national wildlife refuges and to better appreciate the value of, and need for, fish and wildlife conservation.
For most units within the National Wildlife Refuge System, this rule is administrative, legal, technical, and procedural in nature and provides for minor changes to the methods of hunting and fishing permitted but does not stop the overall use permitted. For most units, this rule will not change the number of visitors using refuges or their spending and, therefore, will have no impact on the local economies in their vicinity.
We open five units to hunting and eight units to fishing for the first time. Data from the 1996 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation provides estimates of spending per day for each activity in each of our regions. Multiplying spending per activity day by the number of activity days expected at each unit yields an estimate of the total spending related to the regulation. As much of this spending would have occurred at other sites in the local region absent the regulation, this estimate does not represent increased economic activity but economic activity related to the new recreational opportunities. We estimate the additional hunting opportunities will result in 11,900 visitor-hunting-days on the newly opened units. This hunting will entail $302,000 in trip-related expenditures by hunters. We estimate the additional fishing opportunities will result in 165,300 visitor-fishing-days and $9.3 million in spending. Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge and J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge account for 90,000 of the increased fishing days so we expect $5.4 million of the related spending in the Minot, North Dakota area. As small businesses are a significant portion of the sporting goods industry, much of this economic activity will flow to small entities. However, the rule will not have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities as defined in the Act.
This rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act, as discussed in the Regulatory Planning and Review section above. This rule:
a. Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more;
b. Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government agencies, or geographic regions; or
c. Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.
Since this rule applies to public use of federally owned and managed refuges, it does not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local, or tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100 million per year. The rule does not have a significant or unique effect on State, local, or tribal governments or the private sector. A statement containing the information required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531
In accordance with Executive Order 12630, the rule does not have significant takings implications. This regulation will affect only visitors at national wildlife refuges and limit what they can do while they are on a refuge.
As discussed in the Regulatory Planning and Review and Unfunded Mandates Act sections above, this rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment under Executive Order 13152.
In accordance with Executive Order 12988, the Office of the Solicitor has determined that the rule does not unduly burden the judicial system and meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of the Order. The regulation will clarify established regulations and result in better understanding of the regulations by refuge visitors.
This regulation does not contain any information collection requirements other than that already approved by the Office of Management and Budget under the Paperwork Reduction Act. See 50 CFR 25.23 for information concerning that approval.
In preparation for new openings, we include Section 7 consultation documents in the refuge's “openings package” for Regional review and approval from the Washington Office. We reviewed the changes in hunting and fishing herein with regard to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531–1543) and find the actions are not likely to adversely affect the continued existence of any endangered species or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of habitat of such species within the System since the rule is primarily administrative, legal, technical, or procedural in nature and/or makes minor modifications to existing public use programs. We comply with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531–1543) when developing Comprehensive Conservation Plans, management plans for public use of refuges, and prior to implementing any new or revised public recreation program on a refuge as identified in 50 CFR 26.32. We also make determinations required by the Endangered Species Act on a case-by-case basis before the addition of a refuge to the lists of areas open to hunting or fishing as contained in 50 CFR 32.7.
We analyzed this rule in accordance with the criteria of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4332(C)) and 318 DM 2.2(g) and 6.3(D). This rule does not constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. An environmental impact statement/assessment is not required.
A categorical exclusion from NEPA documentation covers this amendment of refuge-specific hunting and fishing regulations since it is technical and procedural in nature, and the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis (516 DM 2, Appendix 1.10).
Prior to the addition of a refuge to the list of areas open to hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32, we develop hunting and fishing plans for the affected refuges. We incorporate these proposed refuge hunting and fishing activities in the refuge Comprehensive Conservation Plans and/or step-down management plans, pursuant to our refuge planning guidance in 602 FW 1–3. We prepare these plans in compliance with section 102(2)(C) of NEPA, and the Council on Environmental Quality's regulations for implementing NEPA in 40 CFR parts 1500–1508. We invite the affected public to participate in the review, development, and implementation of these plans.
We have also prepared several related environmental analyses, such as lead shot vs. nontoxic shot as it relates to waterfowl and other wildlife with the most recent Environmental Assessment (EA) in May, 1998.
Individual refuge headquarters retain information regarding public use programs and the conditions that apply to their specific programs and maps of their respective areas. You may also obtain information from the regional offices at the addresses listed below:
Primary Author. Leslie A. Marler, Management Analyst, Division of Refuges, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, DC 20240, is the primary author of this rulemaking document.
Fishing, Hunting, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.
5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd–668ee, and 715i.
(k) You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field, which we identify in 50 CFR 20.21(j), while on Waterfowl Production Areas, or on certain other areas of the National Wildlife Refuge System as delineated on maps, leaflets and/or signs, available at each refuge headquarters or posted at each refuge, or as stated in refuge-specific regulations. Where we allow turkey and deer hunting, you may use slugs and shot containing lead to hunt these species unless prohibited by refuge-specific regulations and/or State law.
Guam National Wildlife Refuge.
1. We do not allow bank fishing around the shoreline of the refuge headquarters.
2. All other refuge waters are open to fishing year-round unless otherwise posted.
3. We prohibit entry and use of airboats and hovercraft on all waters within the refuge boundaries.
4. We prohibit entry and use of inboard waterthrust boats, such as but not limited to personal watercraft, watercycles, and waterbikes on all waters of the refuge except that portion of the Tennessee River and Flint Creek from its mouth to mile-marker three.
5. You may not leave boats on the refuge overnight.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. We allow only shotguns.
3. We allow hunting of cottontail rabbits from September 1 to the close of the State quail season.
1. We allow only shotguns.
2. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You must pay a hunt fee in portions of the refuge. Consult refuge hunting leaflet for locations.
4. We do not allow pit or permanent blinds.
5. Hunting in Farm Unit 2 closes at 12:00 p.m. each day. Consult refuge hunting leaflet for refuge-specific regulations and location.
6. We close Farm Unit 2 to all hunting except waterfowl hunting during the Arizona waterfowl season.
7. You must remove all temporary blinds, boats, and decoys from the refuge following each day's hunt.
8. We do not allow hunting within 50 yards (45 m) of any public road.
9. The Hart Mine Marsh area is open to hunting from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily during goose season.
10. The area known as Pretty Water is open to waterfowl hunting from
1. We allow only shotguns and bows and arrows.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may hunt cottontail rabbit from September 1 through the last day of the respective State's quail season.
4. During the Arizona waterfowl season, you may not hunt quail and rabbit in Farm Unit 2.
5. You may not hunt within 50 yards (45 m) of any public road.
1. During the Arizona waterfowl season, you may not hunt mule deer in Farm Unit 2.
2. You may not hunt within 50 yards (45 m) of any public road.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. We require approved nontoxic shot for hunting quail and cottontail rabbit.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
B.
2. We do not allow bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the Refuge Manager for allowed conveyances.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
5. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
1. You must unload firearms while transporting them between parking areas and spaced blind areas.
2. We do not allow snipe hunting in the spaced blind areas.
3. We restrict hunters assigned to the spaced blind area to within 100 feet (30
4. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We do not allow bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the Refuge Manager for allowed conveyances.
5. You may possess no more than 25 shells while in the field.
6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
7. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
1. We do not allow pheasant hunting in the spaced blind area except during a special 1-day-only pheasant hunt on the first Monday after the opening of the State pheasant hunting season.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We do not allow bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the Refuge Manager for allowed conveyances.
4. You may possess no more than 25 shells while in the field.
5. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
1. We allow fishing from the designated shoreline train along Hookton Slough during daylight hours only.
2. We allow fishermen to use only pole and line or rod and reel from the Hookton Slough Shoreline trail fishing area.
3. We do not allow either motorized boats or motors on the refuge dock on Humboldt Bay. We close the dock on Humboldt Bay to launching of all boats from November 1 through January 15.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. In the controlled waterfowl hunting area, we require entry permits for the first 2 days of the waterfowl season for all hunters 16 years of age or older. An adult with a permit must accompany hunters under the age of 16 hunting in the controlled area. We require advance reservations for the first 2 days of the hunt.
2. Shooting hours end at l:00 p.m. daily on the California portion of the refuge except that the refuge manager may designate up to six 1-day special youth or disabled hunter hunts per season and up to 3 days per week of general waterfowl hunting starting December 1 after 1:00 p.m.
3. You may carry only unloaded firearms on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles or when taking them through posted retrieving zones when traveling to and from the hunting areas.
4. You may not set decoys in retrieving zones.
5. We do not allow air-thrust and inboard waterthrust boats.
6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
7. You may use only nonmotorized boats and boats with electric motors on units 4b and 4c from the start of the hunting season through November 30. You may use motorized boats on units 4b and 4c from December 1 through the end of hunting season.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may carry only unloaded firearms on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles or when taking them through posted retrieving zones when traveling to and from the hunting areas.
1. You must unload firearms while transporting them between parking areas and blind sites.
2. You may not possess more than 25 shells when leaving your assigned parking lot.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. We restrict hunters assigned to the spaced blind unit to their assigned blind except for retrieving downed birds, placing decoys, or traveling to and from the parking area.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We limit hunting to junior hunters possessing a valid Junior Hunting License and refuge permit.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You must unload firearms while transporting them between parking areas and spaced blind areas.
2. We do not allow snipe hunting in the spaced blind area.
3. We restrict hunters assigned to the spaced blind unit to within 100 feet (30 m) of their assigned hunt site except for retrieving downed birds, placing decoys, or traveling to and from the parking area.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
5. You may possess no more than 25 shells while in the field.
6. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We do not allow bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the Refuge Manager for allowed conveyances.
7. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
1. We do not allow pheasant hunting in the spaced blind area except during a special 1-day-only pheasant hunt on the first Monday after the opening of the State pheasant hunting season.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We do not allow bicycles
4. You may not possess more than 25 shells while in the field.
5. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
1. In the free-roam hunting areas, you may use only portable blinds, temporary blinds constructed of natural materials, and on the San Luis Unit, existing concrete barrel blinds. We prohibit the cutting of woody vegetation.
2. You must remove all portable blinds, decoys, and other personal equipment from the refuge following each day's hunt.
3. You may snipe hunt only within the free-roam portion of the San Luis unit's waterfowl hunting areas.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
5. You may possess no more than 25 shells after leaving your assigned parking lot or boat launch.
6. Vehicles may stop only at designated, assigned parking areas. We prohibit dropping of passengers or equipment or stopping between designated parking areas. You must return your permits to the check stations immediately upon completion of your hunt, and prior to using any tour routes or leaving the refuge vicinity.
7. You may not transport loaded firearms while walking or bicycling between parking areas in spaced blind units, or while traveling in a boat under power.
8. We restrict hunters in the spaced blind area to their assigned blind except when they are placing decoys, traveling to and from the parking area, retrieving downed birds, or when shooting to retrieve cripples.
9. Access to the Frietas Unit free-roam hunting area is by boat only with a maximum of 5 mph. Prohibited boats include air-thrust and/or inboard water-thrust types.
10. We prohibit the use of motorized boats in the free-roam units with the exception of the Frietas Unit.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We allow fishing from sunrise to sunset only, except on that portion of the San Joaquin River's south (left descending) bank within the West Bear Creek Unit designated as open for fishing 24 hours per day, or as otherwise posted in refuge regulations.
2. We allow the use of one pole and line or one rod and reel per person. Fishermen must attend at all times any pole and line or rod and reel they are using for fishing.
3. We prohibit the use of any boat, float tube, or other floating aid/device.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess no more than 25 shells while in the field.
3. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We do not allow bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the Refuge Manager for allowed conveyances.
4. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. Access is by foot traffic only. We do not allow bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the Refuge Manager for allowed conveyances.
3. You may possess no more than 25 shells while in the field.
4. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves.
1. We require entry permits in the controlled waterfowl hunting area for the first 2 days of the waterfowl season for all hunters 16 years of age or older. An adult with a permit must accompany hunters under the age of 16 hunting in the controlled area. We require advance reservation for the first 2 days of the hunt.
2. Shooting hours end at 1:00 p.m. daily on the California portion of the refuge except that the refuge manager may designate up to six 1-day special youth or disabled hunter hunts per season and up to 3 days per week of general waterfowl hunting after 1:00 p.m. starting December 1.
3. We do not allow possession of any loaded firearms more than 200 feet (60 m) from the established blind stakes. You select blind sites by lottery at the beginning of each hunt day. You may shoot only from within your assigned blind site.
4. You may carry only unloaded firearms on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles or when taking them through posted retrieving zones when traveling to and from the hunting areas.
5. We do not allow you to set decoys in retrieving zones.
6. We do not allow air-thrust and inboard waterthrust boats.
7. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may carry only unloaded firearms on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles or when taking them through posted retrieving zones when traveling to and from the hunting areas.
1. We allow hunting only on the South Upland Hunting Area.
2. We allow hunting from
3. We do not allow hunting from March 1 through August 31.
4. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We allow fishing only from sunrise to sunset.
2. We do not allow use of airboats in the refuge.
3. We do not allow commercial fishing or the taking of frogs or turtles.
4. We do not allow the use of snatch hooks in the refuge impoundments.
C.
9. We prohibit crabbing in refuge pools and impoundments along Lighthouse Road.
10. We do not allow launching of airboats or inboard waterthrust boats (personal watercraft) from refuge saltwater boat ramps at Wakulla Beach or the Lighthouse Road area.
B.
C.
D.
1. We allow fishing only from sunrise to sunset.
2. We allow only nonmotorized boats and boats with electric motors.
3. We do not allow the use of live minnows as bait.
4. We allow fishing in Lakes 1 and 2 and Oyster Pond from April 1 through September 30.
5. We allow fishing in Lakes 3, 4, and 5 from May 15 through September 30.
1. We allow fishing from March 15 to October 15 except on the Ocmulgee River, which is open to fishing year-round.
2. We allow fishing only from sunrise to sunset.
3. We allow fishing only with pole and line or rod and reel.
4. We prohibit the taking of sturgeon, frogs, turtles, and mollusks.
5. We allow only nonmotorized boats or boats with electric motors on refuge waters except the Ocmulgee River.
6. You may not leave boats or other personal equipment on the refuge overnight.
7. The minimum size limit for largemouth bass is 14 inches (35 cm)
1. We do not allow the use of boats with motors larger than 10 horsepower.
2. We do not allow the use of live minnows as bait.
3. We allow only the use of pole and line or rod and reel.
4. The daily creel limit is 5 largemouth bass, 5 channel catfish, and 25 of any one, or combination, of bream or sunfish. We do not allow the possession of more than the daily creel limit.
5. We do not allow the taking of largemouth bass smaller than 14 inches (35 cm).
3. We allow fishing from sunrise to sunset.
1. You must have reservations or permits to access the refuge.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. Pheasant, quail, and partridge hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. Pheasant hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. Goose hunters outside the controlled goose hunting area on Crab Orchard Lake must hunt from a blind that is on shore or anchored a minimum of 200 yards (180 m) away from any shoreline. Waterfowl hunters may also hunt on the east shoreline in Grassy Bay.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting migratory game bird species.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting all permitted species except wild turkey. You may possess and use lead shot for hunting wild turkey.
2. We require hunters using the closed area to check in at the refuge visitor contact station prior to hunting and to comply with the special rules provided to them.
3. You may not hunt deer with a firearm in the controlled goose hunting areas. You may hunt deer in the controlled goose hunting areas with archery equipment in accordance with State seasons and regulations.
4. You must remove hunting stands at the end of each day's hunt.
1. Crab Orchard Lake—west of Wolf Creek Road—Anglers may fish from boats all year. Anglers must remove trotlines/jugs from sunrise until sunset from Memorial Day through Labor Day; east of Wolf Creek Road, anglers may fish from boats March 15 through September 30. Anglers may fish all year at the Wolf Creek and Route 148 causeway areas. Anglers must check and remove fish from all jugs and trotlines daily. It is illegal to use stakes to anchor any trotlines; anglers must tag them with their name and address. Anglers may use all noncommercial fishing methods except they may not use any underwater breathing apparatus. Anglers may not use jugs or trotlines with any flotation device that has previously contained any petroleum-
7. We restrict motorboats to slow speeds leaving no wakes in Cambria Neck, and within 150 feet (45 m) of any shoreline, swimming area, marina entrance, boat ramp, or causeway tunnel on Crab Orchard, Little Grassy, or Devils Kitchen Lakes.
1. If we provide hunter check-in/check-out post, you must present daily harvests.
2. We do not allow hunting after sunset.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting for any permitted birds except wild turkey. You may use lead shot while hunting wild turkey.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting all permitted birds, except wild turkeys. You may possess and use lead shot for hunting wild turkey.
1. You may not hunt migratory birds on refuge-closed areas posted “Area Closed,” on the Goose Island “No Hunting” zone in Pool 8, on the Upper Halfway Creek Marsh “No Hunting” zone in Pool 7, or on the Frog Pond area “No Hunting” zone in Pool 13.
2. We require permits for Potters Marsh in Pool 13 except during the early teal season.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. On Pools 4 through 11 you must remove all decoys from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt.
3. You may not hunt at any time on the Goose Island “No Hunting” zone in Pool 8, on the Upper Halfway Creek Marsh “No Hunting” zone in Pool 7, or on the Frog Pond “No Hunting” zone in Pool 13.
4. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot when hunting for any permitted birds or other small game, except wild turkey. We still allow possession of lead shot for hunting wild turkey.
5. You may use lights and dogs to hunt raccoons, and other specifically authorized small mammals, in accordance with State regulations. We allow such use of lights on the refuge at the point of kill only. We prohibit all other uses of lights for hunting on the refuge.
3. You may not hunt at any time on the Goose Island “No Hunting” zone in Pool 8, on the Upper Halfway Creek Marsh “No Hunting” zone in Pool 7, or on the Frog Pond “No Hunting” zone in Pool 13.
4. We do not allow construction or use of permanent blinds, platforms, or ladders.
5. You must remove all stands from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt.
1. We do not allow fishing on the Spring Lake Closed Area, Carroll County, Illinois from October 1 through the last day of the Illinois waterfowl season.
2. We allow only hand-powered boats or boats with electric motors on Mertes' Slough in Buffalo County, Wisconsin.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot or rimfire firearms while in the field.
Refer to § 32.68 West Virginia for regulations.
B.
C.
D.
1. We allow fishing from 1 hour before sunrise until
2. We allow boat launching on all refuge waters as designated in the refuge brochure. We allow only nonmotorized boats or boats with motors of 10 horsepower or less. You may not leave boats on the refuge overnight.
A.
B.
C.
D.
1. The ends of trotlines must consist of a length of cotton line that extends from the points of attachment into the water.
2. We allow only cotton limb lines.
D.
2. Any person entering, using, or occupying the refuge for fishing or crawfishing must abide by all terms and conditions in the refuge fishing brochure.
A.
1. We require permits.
2. Any person entering, using, or occupying the refuge for hunting must abide by all terms and conditions in the refuge hunting brochure.
B.
1. We require permits.
2. Any person entering, using, or occupying the refuge for hunting must abide by all terms and conditions in the refuge hunting brochure.
C.
1. We require permits.
2. Any person entering, using, or occupying the refuge for hunting must abide by all terms and conditions in the refuge hunting brochure.
D.
1. We require permits.
2. Any person entering, using, or occupying the refuge for fishing must abide by all terms and conditions in the refuge fishing brochure.
A.
1. We require refuge hunting permits.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
1. The ends of trotlines must consist of a length of cotton line that extends from the points of attachment into the water.
2. We allow only cotton limb lines.
B.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
C.
5. We allow only archery and shotgun hunting with appropriate buckshot or slug loads.
B.
D.
1. We allow fishing and crabbing from Eastern Neck Island bridge.
2. We allow fishing and crabbing from April 1—September 30 during daylight hours only at the Ingleside Recreation Area.
3. We allow fishing from the Boxes Point and Duck Inn Trails during daylight hours only.
6. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting for partridge or ring-necked pheasant.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting upland game species.
5. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting for all upland game species.
3. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting for all upland game species.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We do not allow off-road vehicles on the refuge.
2. We do not allow permanent and pit blinds. You must remove all blind materials and decoys at the end of each hunting day.
1. We allow fishing from 1 hour before sunrise until 2 hours after sunset.
2. We allow fishing only on the dikes in the areas north of the Brown Dike and east of the Collection Ditch with the exception that you may fish by wading and from personal flotation devices (float tubes) on Unit 21.
3. We prohibit fishing from the bank on the South Marsh except at Brown Dike, the Main Boat Landing, and Narciss Boat Landing.
4. You may use only artificial lures in the Collection Ditch and spring ponds adjoining the ditch.
5. We do not allow boats on the refuge from January 1 through June 14.
6. During the boating season, we allow only boats on the South Marsh. Beginning June 15 through July 31, we allow only motorless boats or boats with battery-powered electric motors. Beginning August 1 through December 31, we allow only motorless boats and boats propelled with motors with a total of 10 horsepower or less.
7. Launch boats only from designated landings.
8. Do not store boats of any kind on the refuge from January 1 through May 31.
9. We do not allow off-road vehicles on the refuge.
1. Waterfowl and coot hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. Anglers may only bank fish, fish by wading, or use boats with electric motors, float tubes or similar flotation devices in Big Springs Reservoir, Duferrena Ponds, and Catnip Reservoir. Anglers may not fish from other types of motorized boats.
2. We allow only individuals 12 years of age or under, or 65 years of age or older, or disabled individuals to fish in McGee Pond.
We have opened the following refuge unit to hunting and/or fishing with applicable refuge-specific regulations:
1. Waterfowl hunting will not require a permit. We will allow hunting only from the immediate shoreline of the Bay.
2. We allow only portable blinds. You must remove all decoys, blinds, and boats after each day's hunt.
3. Waterfowl hunters may access shorelines by boat only.
1. We require refuge permits for the deer hunt.
2. We require big game hunters to wear in a conspicuous manner on the head, chest, and back, a minimum of
3. We allow only shotguns and bows.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
7. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
30. In § 32.51 New York by revising paragraphs A.4. and B.4. and adding paragraph A.8. of Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
4. Waterfowl hunters may not possess more than 20 shells per day.
8. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field..
1. We require permits.
2. Hunting must be from assigned blind location.
3. We allow hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays during the North Carolina waterfowl season.
4. We allow hunting from
5. We allow access 1
1. We require permits.
2. We allow taking of Canada geese only during the special September season for resident Canada geese.
3. Any person entering, using, or occupying the refuge for hunting must abide by all the terms and conditions in the refuge hunting brochure.
2. Any person entering, using, or occupying the refuge for hunting must abide by all the terms and conditions in the refuge hunting brochure.
1. We allow fishing and crabbing from March 1 through November 1 from
2. We allow bank fishing and crabbing year-round along Highway 94 Causeway and in the immediate vicinity of the Lake Landing water control structure, the Rose Bay water control structure, and the Outfall Canal water control structure. Other areas open to this activity are the Central Canal and East and West Main Canal as signed. We allow bank fishing and crabbing from
3. You may not dip herring (alewife).
4. You must attend all fish lines and crabbing equipment. We restrict crabbing equipment to 5 handlines and/or hand-activated traps per person. The catch/possession limit is 12 blue crabs per day per person.
5. We do not permit airboats, sailboats, wind surfers, and personal watercraft.
6. We prohibit bank fishing along the entrance road from Highway 94 to the Refuge Headquarters.
1. We allow access 1
2. You must unload and encase firearms while transporting them by vehicle or boat under power.
3. We allow only portable blinds and temporary blinds constructed of natural materials. We require removal of portable blinds following each day's hunt.
4. We allow hunting during the State season.
1. We require permits for any night hunting.
2. We allow access 1
3. You must unload and encase firearms while transporting them by a vehicle or boat under power.
4. We allow hunting during the State season except we will close opossum and raccoon hunting during the State bear season including 5 days before and after that season.
5. You must wear 500 square inches (3250 cm
6. We prohibit possession of buckshot or slugs while hunting with dogs.
7. You may use only shotguns and/or .22 caliber rim-fire rifles for upland game hunts.
8. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field on designated areas of the refuge.
1. You must wear 500 square inches (3250 cm
2. We allow only shotguns, muzzle-loaders, and bow and arrow for big game hunts.
3. You must unload and encase firearms while transporting them by a vehicle or boat under power.
4. We allow access 1
5. We allow hunting during the State season.
6. We do not allow dogs.
7. You must remove all stands from the refuge following each day's hunt. We prohibit the construction or use of permanent stands, blinds, platforms, or ladders.
8. We allow archery hunting on the Pungo Unit during the regular State archery season and from November 1 through 30. State bag limits apply.
9. We allow shotgun and muzzle-loaders on the Pungo Unit subject to the following conditions:
We require permits and allow access 1 hour before and after legal shooting time.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may use falconry for upland game hunting.
1. Fox hunting opens annually on the day following the close of the regular firearm deer season and closes on March 31.
2. We close fox hunting from
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. Waterfowl and coot hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
33. In § 32.54 Ohio by revising Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
1. We require permits.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We require permits.
2. You must check in and out of the refuge each day that you hunt.
3. You may not shoot from refuge roads.
1. We allow fishing during daylight hours only and during designated dates.
2. We do not allow boats or flotation devices.
3. You may use only shotguns with #4 or smaller shot. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We only allow shotguns.
1. Anglers may fish from March 15 through October 14 in the Washita River and Foss Reservoir. Anglers may bank fish year round in the Washita River and Foss Reservoir from open areas.
3. We do not allow boats and other flotation devices on refuge waters from October 15 through March 14.
6. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. Pheasant, quail, and partridge hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. We do not allow hunting on all exposed lands on Miller Sands Island and its partially enclosed lagoon, as posted. We do not allow hunting inside the diked portion of Karlson Island, as posted.
4. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field on designated areas east of Highway 205.
7. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. The refuge is open from 4:00 a.m. to 1
2. In the McCormack Unit, we allow hunting only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, Thanksgiving Day, and New Year's Day.
3. We require waterfowl hunting parties in the Boardman Unit to space themselves a minimum of 200 yards (180 m) apart.
4. You may possess no more than 25 shells while in the field.
5. We require permits for hunting on the McCormack Unit.
6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We do not allow hunting of upland game birds until noon of each hunt day.
2. In the McCormack Unit, we allow hunting only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, Thanksgiving Day, and New Year's Day.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. You may possess no more than 25 shells while in the field.
5. We require permits for hunting on the McCormack Unit.
1. The refuge is open from 5 a.m. to 1
2. We allow fishing on refuge impoundments and ponds from February 1 through September 30. We open other refuge waters (Columbia River and its backwaters) in accordance with State regulations.
3. We allow only nonmotorized boats and boats with electric motors on refuge impoundments and ponds.
4. We only allow fishing with hook and line.
2. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
Refer to § 32.68 West Virginia for regulations.
1. We allow fishing on refuge pools and reservoirs from March 15 through October 31 from sunrise to sunset.
2. We do not allow bows and arrows, trotlines, limblines, jugs, and slat baskets in refuge pools and reservoirs.
3. We do not allow taking of frogs.
4. The length limit for largemouth bass taken from Elk and South Cross Creeks' reservoirs is less than 12 inches (30 cm) and more than 15 inches (37.5 cm). Anglers must immediately release unharmed largemouth bass from 12 inches (30 cm) to 15 inches (37.5 cm). We prohibit possession of largemouth bass between 12 inches (30 cm) and 15 inches (37.5 cm).
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We require permits.
2. You must unload and encase or dismantle firearms transported in motor vehicles.
1. We require permits.
2. You must unload and encase or dismantle firearms transported in motor vehicles.
1. We close impounded waters to fishing from November 1 through March 14.
2. We close Swamp Creek, Britton Ford, and Bennett's Creek embayments to fishing and boating from November 1 through March 14.
3. Anglers must launch boats from designated access points only. We restrict boats to “slow speed/minimum wake” on all refuge impoundments open to fishing.
4. Anglers may not leave boats on the refuge overnight.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We require you to check in and out of the hunt area.
2. We allow only shotguns.
3. You may possess no shot larger than #4 on the hunting area.
1. We require you to check in and out of the hunt area.
2. We allow only shotguns.
3. You may possess no shot larger than #4 on the hunting area.
4. You must plug shotguns to hold no more than three shells during the September dove season.
1. You may archery hunt as listed in the refuge hunt information sheet. You must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt fee.
2. We allow hunting with firearms including shotguns, 20 gauge or larger, loaded with rifled slug during a special youth hunt as listed in the refuge hunt information sheet. We require permits.
1. Lake Texoma and connected streams are open to fishing year round.
2. We allow fishing in ponds and stock tanks from April 1 through September 30.
3. Fishermen may string trotlines between anchored floats only. We do not allow lines attached to rubber bands, sticks, poles, trees, or other fixed objects in refuge ponds or impoundments.
4. We do not allow fishing from bridges or roadways.
5. We do not allow boats and other flotation devices on the waters of Lake Texoma from October 1 through March 31, or at any time on refuge ponds and impoundments.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
43. In § 32.66 Virginia by:
1. You must possess written permission to hunt in the nonguided public hunting areas.
2. On Wildcat Marsh we reserve compartments 1–4 for guided hunting only with refuge-designated commercial guides.
1. We allow sport fishing, crabbing, and clamming in salt water areas and in that portion of Swan Cove adjacent to Beach Road. We close all other refuge ponds, impoundments, and channels to these activities.
2. You must attend traps and crab pots.
3. You must obtain a permit to remain on the refuge after normal closing hours.
1. We require permits.
2. Waterfowl hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. In Marsh Unit 1, we allow hunting only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
2. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. In Marsh Unit 1, concurrent with the State's designated Youth Day prior to the opening of the waterfowl hunt, only youth aged 10–17 and an accompanying adult aged 18 or over may hunt.
1. We allow hunting of upland game birds only during State seasons that run concurrently with the State waterfowl season.
2. We allow only shotguns and bows and arrows.
3. Upland game bird hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. In Marsh Unit 1, concurrent with the State's designated Youth Day prior to the opening of the waterfowl hunt, only youth aged 10–17 and an accompanying adult aged 18 or over may hunt.
1. We allow nonmotorized boats and boats with electric motors on Upper and Lower Hampton, Hutchinson, Royal, and Shiner Lakes.
2. We allow motorized boats and nonmotorized boats on all other refuge waters open to fishing.
3. We prohibit the taking of bullfrogs.
3. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
5. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
6. Waterfowl and snipe hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
4. Upland game bird hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. At the Riekkola Unit, prior to entering the hunt area, we require you to obtain a permit, pay a recreation user fee, and obtain a blind assignment.
2. At the Riekkola Unit you may take ducks and coots only coincidental to hunting geese. We do not allow exclusive hunting of ducks in the Riekkola Unit.
3. We allow hunting in the Riekkola Unit only from established blinds on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
4. At the Riekkola Unit you may possess and use no more than 24 shells per day while in the field.
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shotgun shells.
1. We require you to obtain and carry a refuge permit and report game taken, as specified with the permit.
2. We allow only archery hunting.
3. We do not allow firearms on Long Island at any time.
4. We do not allow dogs on Long Island.
1. We require you to obtain and carry a refuge permit and report game taken, as specified with the permit.
2. We allow only archery hunting.
3. We do not allow firearms on Long Island at any time.
4. We do not allow dogs on Long Island.
2. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting on the refuge.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field.
1. We require permits.
2. We do not allow the construction or use of blinds, platforms, or ladders.
3. We allow hunting only during the State firearms season and during a designated time period of the archery season.
1. We require permits.
2. We allow only participants in the Young Wildfowlers and Special Programs to hunt.
1. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting upland game species.
2. Hunting in the youth/novice pheasant hunt area (Area F) is for youth who are 12–15 years of age, and by permit.
1. We allow hunting only during the early archery and State firearms season.
2. We do not allow the construction and use of permanent blinds, platforms, or ladders.
3. You must remove all stands from the refuge following each day's hunt.
4. Hunting in the area surrounding the office/visitor center (Area E) is by permit only.
5. Hunting in the auto tour/hiking trail complex (Area D) is open only during the State firearms deer season.
1. We allow fishing from April 15 through September 15.
2. We allow only bank fishing.
1. You may possess only unloaded guns in the retrieval zone of Refuge Area 7 during the State waterfowl hunting season, except while hunting deer during the gun deer season.
2. During the spring turkey hunting season only, persons possessing a valid State spring turkey permit may enter and hunt wild turkeys in all open refuge areas.
3. Refuge Area 3 is open to hunting after the State deer gun season through the end of the respective State seasons or until February 28, whichever occurs first.
4. You may use dogs only when hunting small game and waterfowl.
1. We prohibit the possession of a loaded rifle or shotgun within 50 feet (15 m) of the centerline of all paved or graveled roads and designated trails, or discharging these weapons from, across, down, or alongside these roads and trails within the refuge.
2. We do not allow the construction of permanent blinds, platforms, or ladders.
3. You may use portable elevated devices but must lower them to ground level at the close of shooting hours each day. You must remove all blinds, stands, platforms, and ladders from the refuge at the end of the hunting season.
4. Refuge Areas 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are open to deer hunting.
5. Refuge Area 3 is open to deer hunting during the State gun, muzzleloader, and late archery seasons. Unarmed deer hunters may enter Area 3 to scout beginning the Saturday prior to the gun deer season.
6. We do not allow target or practice shooting.
7. We prohibit the use of flagging, paint, blazes, tacks, or other types of markers.
We have opened the following refuge unit to hunting and/or fishing with applicable refuge-specific regulations.