Holt Collier, one of this country’s most legendary hunters ever, roamed the swamps of Mississippi in pursuit of bear. Collier guided many famous hunters, including President Theodore Roosevelt, who considered Collier the greatest hunter he ever met. An African-American who fought in the Confederate Army, Collier thrived in wilderness, yet killed hundreds of bears, making the way for civilization. Today, the endless swamps and forests and wild country of Collier's day are gone. Holt Collier National Wildlife Refuge was established as a tribute to this famous hunter. In the future, the refuge will restore bottomland hardwood forest to an area where Collier hunted. It is hoped that someday a viable population of black bear will return. In the meantime, hunters can hunt in the area that Collier did and pursue rabbit – very common on the refuge – and deer during annual archery and muzzleloader hunts.
Please refer to current Refuge regulations and map for additional information. A Current Public Use Permit is required for access if you are participating in consumptive use such as but not limited to, hunting and angling. Click here to purchase or obtain your permit. For help with log-in or creating your account for purchasing or obtaining an annual public use permit please watch the video instructions.
