Since the 19th century, hunters concerned about the future of wildlife have made countless contributions to conserving the nation's wildlife resources. Waterfowl hunters have helped buy land for the National Wildlife Refuge System for decades through their purchase of 
Duck Stamps. Since 1934, more than half a billion dollars collected from Duck Stamp sales has been deposited in the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund and used to purchase wetland habitat.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has long recognized wildlife hunting as a legitimate and traditional recreational activity. In some locations it is also an effective wildlife population management tool. Port Louisa NWR offers opportunities for deer, migratory bird, and upland game hunting.
Deer Hunting
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Portable stands may be used where hunting is allowed, but they must be removed at the end of each day's hunt. No nails, screws, or other hardware may be used to climb or secure blinds to the trees.
Big Timber Division - White-tailed deer hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations.
Horseshoe Bend Division - Closed to all public access from September 15 until December 1.
Louisa and Keithsburg Divisions - Closed to deer hunting.
Migratory Bird Hunting
Big Timber Division - Migratory bird hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations. A drawing for seasonal blinds is held once each year. If these blinds are not occupied at the start of the legal shooting hours, they will be open to the public on a first come basis. In addition, portable blinds are permitted on a daily basis.
Horseshoe Bend, Keithsburg and Louisa Divisions - Closed to migratory bird hunting.
Upland Game Hunting
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Includes small game, furbearers, turkey and game birds (except migratory birds).
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The refuge is open to public use during daylight hours only, and therefore is closed to all nighttime hunting of furbearers.
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Hunters must possess and use only non toxic shot while hunting except for turkeys, deer (shotgun, slug, or muzzleloader), or coyote (shotgun, slug, or muzzleloader)
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Lead shot may be used for hunting wild turkey.
Big Timber Division - Upland game hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations from September 1 until February 28. Spring turkey hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations.
Horseshoe Bend Division - Upland game hunting is allowed from September 1 through September 14 and December 1 until February 28 in accordance with state seasons and regulations. Spring turkey hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations.
Keithsburg Division - Squirrel hunting is permitted from the beginning of the state season through September 15.
Louisa Division - Closed to upland game hunting.
The Iowa River Corridor is managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in cooperation with the National Wildlife Refuge System. Designated areas are open to hunting and fishing subject to state regulations. For additional information, contact the IDNR Area Biologists at (515) 752-5521.
For information on state hunting license and state regulations in Iowa, please contact the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
For information on state hunting licenses and state regulations in Illinois, please contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
