Hunting

The Refuge conducts two public hunts annually. Both are controlled, limited-take hunts which are allowed on a small portion of the Refuge in order to minimize disturbance to other wildlife and visitors on the refuge.

Dove hunting is permitted on 840 acres of the Refuge from September 1 through 30. In addition to State regulations, the Refuge requires hunters to use steel shot and have a refuge permit in their possession. Hunters pay a one-time $5 user fee to receive a permit to hunt within the designated area throughout the hunt season.

The Refuge also hosts a quality goose hunt, which typically extends from late November through December. This hunt is also a permit-only hunt. Our goose hunt is very popular and prospective hunters have to participate in a public drawing to receive a permit. If you are drawn for a permit, it allows you to hunt on one specific day during the hunt season. The Refuge requires all permitted hunters to attend a brief orientation at the Refuge headquarters the day of their hunt. The Refuge also provides two dozen decoys for use at each pit. For more information, call 505-425-3581.

Fishing and waterfowl hunting are offered at neighboring McAllister Lake, which is under the jurisdiction of New Mexico Game & Fish at http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/.

 

2010 Dove Hunting:
September 1-30

2010 Goose Hunt Dates:
November 16, 19, 23, 26 & 30
December 3, 7, & 10

By public drawing:
Applications are available at the office,
or by calling 505-425-3581 ext. 205

*Applications must be postmarked by
October 12, 2010 for this year's drawing.