The Refuge is known for its waterfowl hunting, fishing and wildlife observation. Refuge hunting and fishing seasons generally follow state seasons and regulations. To conserve this special place, and safeguard the experience for all we ask you to observe the Public Use Regulations and Hunting Regulations.

Areas throughout the Refuge are designated as closed or restricted use areas, usually fall to spring, to protect migrating waterfowl or for public safety. These areas are marked with orange-topped “special regulation” signs and list the restrictions and effective dates or seasons.

Refuge Specific Regulations:

Public Use Regulations
Hunting Regulations 

Refuge Signs:

Signs Seen in the Field 

Refuge Special Hunts:

Youth and Hunters with Disabilities Deer Hunt at Lost Mound Unit, Savanna, Illinois

Regulations and Application 

Potter's Marsh Waterfowl Hunt Management Zone - Pool 13, Thomson, Illinois

Regulations
Migratory Bird Hunt Report (Waterfowl Harvest Form)  

Trapping:

Information and Permit 

Fishing:

Refer to State Fishing Regulations in addition to the above Refuge Specific Regulations:

Minnesota Fishing Regulations 

Wisconsin Fishing Regulations  

Iowa Fishing Regulations 

Illinois Fishing Regulations