Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge is centrally located along the Mississippi Flyway, a major route for migratory birds, affording visitors an excellent opportunity to see wildlife. More than 200 species of birds visit the refuge throughout the year. October and November are the best months to see large concentrations of waterfowl. Shorebird and warbler migrations usually peak around the first week of May.

National Wildlife Refuges provide unique opportunities to view and photograph wildlife. Visit Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge to see wintering bald eagles as they gather near the river to feed in open water areas. Herons and egrets are commonly seen during the summer feeding in refuge wetlands. Deer, squirrel, raccoon, muskrat, turkey, beaver, skunk, and opossum are year-round residents, but are not always easy to spot. River banks are a good place to look for a variety of wildlife - from muskrats and beavers to turtles and frogs.

Two managed deer hunts are scheduled each year on the refuge in accordance with Missouri state regulations. In October a two day season for hunters with mobility and visual impairments is available to ten successful applicants. In January, another two day managed deer hunt is open to all hunters, however only thirty successful applicants will be selected to participate in the hunt.

Contact the refuge office to find out more about hunting opportunities, seasons and regulations on Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge. 

Contact the Missouri Department of Conservation at http://mdc.mo.gov, for information on Missouri state hunting licenses and regulations.

Applications for the Mobility and Visually Impaired Hunt are now being accepted.  Click here for more information. 

Fishing is allowed by boat in Bryants Creek in accordance with Missouri Department of Conservation seasons and regulations. No bank fishing is allowed on the refuge at any time.

Contact the Missouri Department of Conservation at http://mdc.mo.gov, for information on Missouri state hunting licenses and regulations.

A youth fishing event is held each year in May at the Clarence Cannon and Great River National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center in Annada, Missouri.

While visiting the refuge, check out the interpretive signs on the observation deck by the office. Exhibits are available in the refuge visitor center during business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

National Wildlife Refuges serve many purposes, and one of our most important roles is as outdoor classrooms to teach about wildlife and natural resources. Environmental education programs and guided tours are available for schools, scouts and other groups. To schedule a visit, please call the refuge office in advance of the event. Discovery backpacks, scopes and binoculars are available for loan.