Hunting

• Hunting is subject to all applicable state and federal laws
• Units near St. Louis have archery only or archery and shotgun only restrictions; see the corresponding maps of those units on our Maps page for specifics
• You may use and possess only approved non-toxic shot within Refuge boundaries; this includes turkey hunting
• Distributing or hunting with the aid of bait, including salt or other minerals, is prohibited
• Target shooting is prohibited
• Use or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting is prohibited

 Check out the Department of Interior blog page here for more information about hunting on public lands.  

Trapping

• Trapping is prohibited on all areas of the Refuge

Stand / Blind / Decoy Use 

• Only portable tree stands and blinds may be used between September 1 and January 31
• Use of nails, screw-in steps or any material that would damage trees or other resources is prohibited
• Unattended stands and blinds must be plainly labeled on durable material with the owner's full name and address
• Decoys and portable blinds are permitted during the prescribed hunting seasons, but must be removed from the area daily

Fishing 

• Fishing is allowed year round and is subject to all applicable state and federal laws
• All motorized boats must be operated at a no-wake speed
• Anglers are encouraged to utilize the mono-filament line bins on kiosks throughout the Refuge to dispose of fishing line safely

Vehicles 

• All vehicles are restricted to designated roads and parking areas
• Vehicle speed limit shall not exceed 25 mph except as otherwise legally posted

Camping

• Camping and unauthorized overnight use on the Refuge is prohibited

Animal and Plant Collection

• Harvest of berries, mushrooms, and nuts for non-commercial use is allowed at hunters' own risk
• Otherwise, disturbing, injuring, and damaging any plant or animal, except fish and game taken in season, is prohibited
• Collecting of other objects including shed antlers is prohibited

Domestic Animals

• Horseback riding is prohibited
• Pets must be leashed, except when under control of hunter during appropriate hunting season

Fires and Fireworks

• Building or setting fires is prohibited on the Refuge
• Fireworks are prohibited on the Refuge

Aircraft

• Launching, landing, or disturbing wildlife by aircraft (to include drones) is prohibited on the Refuge

Historical Artifacts 

• Artifacts and historical items are protected; collecting these items is prohibited