Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
Northeast Region

Cape May National Wildlife Refuge

2009/2010 Hunting Regulations

The Cape May NWR is open for deer hunting and migratory game bird hunting only. Small game and turkey hunting are NOT permitted. Trapping is NOT permitted. Hunting is prohibited on the Two Mile Beach Unit (former Coast Guard Electronic Engineering Center). For additional information contact the Refuge.

In addition to State laws and regulations, the following Refuge specific regulations apply:

  • The distribution of bait and/or hunting over bait is prohibited.
  • Anytime the State requires hunters to wear a minimum of 200 square inches of orange clothing, the Refuge requires hunters to wear in a conspicuous manner on head, chest, and back, a minimum of 400 square inches of solid-colored hunter orange clothing.
  • No vehicles are permitted on the Refuge.
  • All public entry is prohibited in areas designated with "Area Closed" signs and also on Refuge roadways posted with "Inholders Only" signs.
  • The use or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting is prohibited.
  • The use of spotlights, automotive headlights, or other artificial light for the purpose of spotting, locating, or taking any animal is prohibited. This regulation applies even if no weapons are in the vehicle.

Deer hunting:

The Refuge is open for all six State Deer Management Zone 34 seasons: fall bow, fall permit bow, winter permit bow, six-day firearm, permit shotgun, and permit muzzleloader.

  • The use of wire, nails, screws, or bolts to attach a stand to a tree, or hunting from a tree into which a metal object has been driven to support a hunter is prohibited. Screw-in tree steps are also prohibited.
  • The use or possession of any drug on any bow hunting arrow is prohibited.
  • Sunday hunting is prohibited.
  • All hunting materials must be removed from the Refuge at the end of the Zone 34 state deer hunting season.

Migratory game bird hunting:

  • Migratory game bird hunting is permitted only on those Refuge lands west of Highway 47 in Middle Township and north of Highway 550 through the Great Cedar Swamp in Upper and Dennis Townships.
  • Common snipe hunting begins with the State early woodcock, south zone season.
  • All waterfowl hunting blind materials, boats, and decoys must be removed from the Refuge at the end of each hunting day. Permanent and pit blinds are prohibited.
  • Only Federally approved, non-toxic shot is permitted.
  • Crow hunting prohibited.

Return to Public Access Page

Last updated: September 11, 2009