Wildlife Observation
Flooded moist soil impoundments and agricultural crops provide excellent wintering habitat for migrating waterfowl and outstanding viewing opportunities for the public. Wintering bald eagles can also be viewed. November thru February provide the best viewing times.

Photography
Lake Isom offers the opportunity to photograph a wide variety of wildlife including waterfowl, wading birds, eagles and ospreys. Visitors should contact the office at Reelfoot NWR for potential viewing locations.

Hunting
The refuge offers sportsmen the opportunity to hunt archery deer, squirrel and raccoon. The refuge requires a permit, free of charge to the sportsman, and can be obtained at the Reelfoot NWR headquarters.

Fishing
The lake is open to sport fishing from March 15 through October 15. Fishermen may use legally registered motorboats, but the use of outboard motors over 10 horsepower is prohibited.