Rydell National Wildlife Refuge conducts two special white-tailed deer hunts. A mentored youth firearm hunts is held in October and includes a pre-hunt orientation and safety workshop. Through a partnership with a non-profit organization, hunters with disabilities can participate in deer hunts hosted at the Refuge in mid-October. Please contact the refuge for more information. 

Anglers can fish for northern pike, walleye, bass and panfish from an accessible pier on Tamarac Lake from May 1 to November 1, there is no ice fishing or fishing by boat. Anglers need to follow Minnesota state regulations. For a chance to reconnect to a favorite childhood activity or try it for the first time, make plans to bring a fishing pole along on your visit to the Tamarac Lake fishing pier. 

Rydell Refuge offers 7 miles of walking trails to explore the habitats and see the wildlife that make their home on the refuge. Most species of waterfowl and many waterbirds, including the red-necked grebe, can be seen in refuge wetlands. Trumpeter swans, on Minnesota’s threatened species list, were re-introduced to the area and now nest here each year. Bald eagles and osprey are often seen soaring over the refuge. Resident wildlife species include white-tailed deer, black bear, ruffed grouse, barred owl, pileated woodpecker, long-tailed weasel, red fox, river otter, fisher and beaver. Please keep your exploration to the designated trails. 

National wildlife refuges across the country provide opportunities for visitors to make their own connections to the natural world. Self-guided hikes and staff-led programs help visitors learn more about refuge wildlife and habitats. Rydell National Wildlife Refuge hosts a variety of opportunities to connect with nature throughout the year. Programs are free and geared for both youth and adults. The Learning at the Lakes series of programs is offered every Sunday June through August. Contact the refuge for a schedule and more information about upcoming programs. 

National wildlife refuges serve many purposes and one of our most important roles is as outdoor classrooms to teach about the natural environment. Rydell National Wildlife Refuge’s education program focuses on increasing understanding of the ecological significance of the area and developing a life-long appreciation of wetlands and associated biological diversity. Opportunities include school field outings, guided tours and classroom presentations. All activities are free and include an outdoor or indoor option to avoid poor weather. Contact the refuge to schedule a program. 

Perhaps the fastest growing activity on national wildlife refuges in the past ten years has been wildlife photography. That’s not surprising – the digital camera population explosion and cell phones with ever-improving picture-taking abilities are increasing the number of nature photographers at a rapid rate. You don’t need to purchase expensive equipment or have any experience to get started. A small camera or basic cell phone will do just fine for most visitors. 

Nearly 12 million people visit outdoor areas each year to photograph wildlife, and national wildlife refuges naturally are at the top of the list. Refuges provide enhanced opportunities to photograph wildlife in natural habitats by providing platforms, brochures, interpreters, viewing areas and tour routes. Wildlife photography is a high-priority activity in the Refuge System. We welcome beginning and expert photographers alike to record their outdoor adventures on film, memory card or hard drive!