Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge

Hunting is an important wildlife management tool that we recognize as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciation of wildlife, their behavior, and habitat needs.  

All hunters are...

The refuge is one of the best fishing spots on Cape Cod!

A Massachusetts state saltwater fishing license is required. Surf fishing is permitted year-round in designated areas. Available species include striped bass, bluefish and flounder.

The Town of Chatham, where the refuge is...

Monomoy is listed as a Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network Regional site and an Important Bird Area due to its importance to migratory shorebirds.On the Morris Island trail, you can see songbirds, shorebirds, horseshoe crabs, and the occasional seal. On offshore portions of the refuge,...

The Osprey Observation Deck provides views of the barrier islands as well as the Fool's Cut which separated Middle Island from the main land. There is also a 3/4-mile nature trail located on Morris Island that winds through a variety of coastal habitats. Along the trail, one may view...

The refuge offers a trail map and self-guided walk on Morris Island. Erosion has re-routed this trail, which you can see on the map below. Find informative panels alongside the path and learn from the brochure as you traverse the Morris Island Trail. In the summer months when staffing allows,...