Hunting

The oldest national wildlife refuge in Tennessee, Lake Isom NWR is protected as a sanctuary for waterfowl. The proximity of Lake Isom to the Mississippi River has always made the area a major stopover and wintering ground for migratory waterfowl, which can number in the thousands during fall and winter. The refuge includes 1,850 acres of waterfowl habitat around Lake Isom, and the refuge is managed to minimize disturbance to migratory birds. Before the birds begin using the refuge in late fall, it is open to limited hunting opportunities for popular game species. A squirrel season begins in August, and an archery deer hunt is held in October. Raccoon hunting is also permitted during nights in October, only with the aid of hounds.

See the Reelfoot & Lake Isom Public Regulations Brochure for specific hunt dates.