Deep Fork NWR

Hunting Regulations

Squirrel and rabbit hunting is permitted on the Refuge during the State season with one exception: the Refuge is closed to squirrel and rabbit hunting from the opening of archery season until November 30. Squirrel and rabbit hunting will resume on December 1. All State hunting regulations apply. Shotguns with non-toxic shot (non-lead), and .22 rimfire rifles are permitted. Dogs may be used for squirrel and rabbit hunting. Blaze orange will be required from December 1 until the end of deer rifle season. A signed Refuge permit is required, and may be obtained from the Refuge office, or from a current year hunting brochure. Note: Waterfowl sanctuary area on northern end of Refuge closed to all entry October 1 - March 31.

Deer hunting is allowed by permit only. Two archery hunts and two muzzleloader hunts (one youth and one adult) are currently proposed each year. The hunts will be announced in the Oklahoma Controlled Hunt Booklet, and hunters must apply through the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The number of hunters selected will be based on deer surveys and harvest data from previous years and will be controlled to ensure that high quality hunts are maintained. For information concerning these hunts, contact the Refuge headquarters or the Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation at 405/521-6450. Note: Waterfowl sanctuary area on northern end of Refuge closed to all entry October 1 - March 31.

Raccoon hunting is permitted on the Refuge from December 1 - January 31. All State hunting regulations apply. State firearm restrictions apply. Sunset to sunrise hunting only. Dogs will be allowed for use during the two month season, but must be controlled and removed after each hunt. Hunting from horses or mules will not be allowed. A signed Refuge permit is required, and may be obtained from the Refuge office, or from a current year hunting brochure. Note: Waterfowl sanctuary area on northern end of Refuge closed to all entry October 1 - March 31.

Waterfowl (duck only) hunting is permitted on the Refuge from December 1 - end of State season. Hunters must comply with mandatory split in early December. Hunting will only be allowed on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from one half hour before sunrise to 1:00pm. Portable blinds and decoys must be removed daily. State hunting regulations apply. A signed Refuge permit is required, and may be obtained from the Refuge office, or from a current year hunting brochure. Note: Waterfowl sanctuary area on northern end of Refuge closed to all entry October 1 - March 31.