South Malheur Lake Hunt Area

South Malheur Lake Hunt Unit (6,397 acres)

The South Malheur Lake Hunt Area is open to hunting coot, dark geese, duck, light geese, and snipe.

Access

Hunters may enter the Refuge beginning 1½ hours before legal sunrise and must depart no later than 1½ hours after legal sunset.

Parking is permitted in the designated parking area at the Narrows on Hwy 205. Foot and bicycle access is permitted along the north bank of the Blitzen River from Sodhouse Lane to the boat launch. 

Gates opened to enter the hunting area must be closed immediately after passing through.

Equipment Requirements

During the hunting season, hunters may use non-motorized or electric boats. Retrieving dogs are strongly encouraged and must remain under close control. 

Portable, temporary hunting blinds may be used but must be removed daily, along with boats, decoys, other materials, and all personal property, at the conclusion of each hunt.

Only nontoxic shot may be possessed or used.

Water-Level Restriction

Hunting is not permitted when the water level is less than 10,000 acres. Caspian Tern Island is closed to hunting.

Prohibited Activities

• ATVs/UTVs
• Camping
• Campfires
• Collecting natural objects such as plants, animals, minerals, antlers, and objects of antiquity (including cultural resources)
• Overnight parking
• Target shooting