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 required to adhere to both state and federal regulations.
Hunters must possess a valid state hunting license and all applicable tags and stamps; however, an additional refuge-specific permit is not required. A Special Use Permit (SUP) and associated fee is required only for commercial hunting guides. Please contact refuge management at fw5rw_emnwr@fws.gov to request a Special Use Permit.
Monomoy NWR is located in Massachusetts Wildlife Management Zone 12, and the Coastal Zone for waterfowl hunting. Legal open seasons and bag limits for waterfowl are in accordance with state regulations, which can be found on the MassWildlife website.
As per Massachusetts state law, hunting is not permitted on Sundays.
Firearms
Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuge System lands and waters must comply with all provisions of State and Federal laws. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42, and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32).
Vehicles and Parking
Access to all refuge hunt units will be by boat. The anchoring and securing of boats is the full responsibility of the user and the Service will not be liable for lost or damaged equipment. The launching of boats and parking of vehicles will take place at local boat launches, harbors, and marinas or from private residences, as the refuge does not own or operate a boat ramp.
Hunting Opportunities at Monomoy NWR
All hunting is conducted in alignment with State seasons and methods of take (with the exception of night hunting, which is not permitted on the refuge).
Waterfowl (Duck, Goose, Coot)
Waterfowl hunting for duck, goose, and coot is permitted offshore (west) of South Monomoy Island. Offshore waterfowl hunting is permitted in accordance with state seasons and time of day.
No hunting shall occur on refuge islands or inland waters. See hunt map for details.
Other Rules & Regulations for Hunting at Monomoy NWR:
- Hunting dogs are permitted only when assisting with waterfowl hunting and retrieval.
- Refuge islands are closed to night-time use. Offshore waterfowl hunting is permitted in accordance with State seasons and time of day.
- Seals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. For your safety and theirs, keep at least 150 feet away from seals at all times; if your behavior changes theirs, you are too close.
Hunters are required to report harvests according to Massachusetts State regulations.
Prohibited Activities
- Hunters are not permitted to use any refuge-owned mooring
- The Monomoy Islands are federal Wilderness: wheeled carts and motorized equipment are prohibited above Mean Low Water
- Camping and campfires are prohibited
- Hunter harassment or interfering with persons engaged in lawful activities is prohibited
Possession of loaded firearm, discharge of firearm, or hunting is prohibited within 500 feet of any dwelling
Discharge of any firearm or release of any arrow across roads or within 150 feet of roads
Accessibility Information
Equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from programs and activities of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is available to all individuals regardless of physical or mental ability. For more information, please contact the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Equal Opportunity, https://www.doi.gov/pmb/eeo/public-civil-rights.
