Catahoula NWR was established in 1958 as a wintering area for migratory waterfowl. Most of the Refuge's approximately 25,000 acres are lowland hardwood forests subject to backwater flooding from the Ouachita, Black, and Red Rivers.
Hunting and Fishing Permits and Regulations

All Special Recreational Activity Permits and lottery hunt applications can be obtained through the RecAccess website.  You can access the 2023-2024 Hunting and Fishing Regulations online or in person at the Refuge.

Visit Us

Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of activities for visitors. Thousands of people visit the refuge each year to take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities such as hunting, wildlife photography and observation, and fishing.

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      Catahoula NWR is a haven for many types of wildlife.  From white-tailed deer to migratory waterfowl and songbirds, hundreds of wildlife species make their home on the Refuge.

      What We Do

      Refuge staff use a variety of tools to manage wildlife populations and habitat on Catahoula NWR while maintaining opportunities for the public to participate in recreational activities like hunting and fishing.

      Our Library

      Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge Hunting and Fishing Regulations 2023-2024

      The Refuge is part of the Central Louisiana Refuges Complex administered out of the Grand Cote NWR headquarters office located at 401 Island Road, Marksville, LA 71351.  This brochure gives the visitor a variety of information of interest.