Hunting
Hunting is allowed in accordance with Federal regulations governing public use on national wildlife refuges as set forth in Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, State regulations, and the Refuge-specific regulations.
Waubay National Wildlife Refuge has more woodland habitat than is usually found in eastern South Dakota. These woods provide good habitat for white-tailed deer. The Refuge has an annual deer hunt to help control the deer population and provide an interesting opportunity for hunters. Three islands on the Refuge – ranging in size from 100 to 600 acres – offer a special hunting experience. These islands can be reached only with non-motorized boats.
Hunting Regulations
- A portion of the Refuge is open to hunting for deer within specific dates (see hunting regulations table). A State issued, Refuge-specific tag is required for hunting. The entire Headquarters Island is closed to all hunting.
- Only hunters with a valid, unfilled tag may be on the Refuge to hunt during the dates printed on the tag.
- Muzzleloader deer hunting permits are issued for Waubay National Wildlife Refuge through the South Dakota lottery for special seasons.
- Hunters may not fill the following tags on the Refuge: East River, State muzzleloader, special buck, and state-wide youth tags.
No other hunting is allowed on the Refuge. For more information contact the Refuge Manager or SD Game, Fish & Parks.
