The Cascade Mountains form a dramatic backdrop for the large natural wetlands of Klamath Marsh NWR. The 40,000-acre refuge offers important resting, nesting and feeding areas for migratory waterfowl at different times of the year. Depending on water conditions, hunting can range from excellent to nonexistent during the Oregon waterfowl seasons. Some areas are only accessible by non-motorized boat during years of good water conditions, but the north portion of the hunting unit is accessible on foot. Canada goose hunting can be good in meadows and grasslands. Successful hunters use willows for cover. In some years, white-fronted geese appear early in the season, providing good hunting. During years with moderate or high water levels, hunting both puddle and diving ducks can also be good. A canoe or other non-motorized boat can give hunters access to more places.
Description of Klamath Marsh Hunt Areas
Areas of the Refuge south of Silverlake Road are open to waterfowl hunting during the Oregon season. The area may be marshy, wet meadow, dry grassy openings, or a mix of all three depending on water levels in the marsh. Some areas are only accessible by boat during years of good water conditions. The north portion of the hunting unit is accessible by foot from a parking area off Silverlake Road near the east boundary of the refuge.
Directions to the Area
The hunting area is approximately 50 miles north of Klamath Falls, Oregon via Highway 97 and east on Silverlake Road. US Forest Service Road #690 provides access to hunting areas along the east side of Wocus Bay. This road is poorly maintained. Other hunting areas are accessible via a variety of two-track Forest Service roads.
For current conditions: Contact the Klamath Marsh Refuge Headquarters at (541)-783-3380
Waterfowl
Hunting varies greatly from year to year depending upon water levels in the marsh. In dry years, hunting for waterfowl is almost non-existent. Canada goose hunting can be good in wet to dry meadows and grasslands. Some years white-fronted geese are taken early in the season. Marsh hunting may require access by a canoe or other shallow draft boat using the launch on the west side of Wocus Bay. Duck hunting for divers and dabblers is good to fair in years with moderate to high water levels in the fall. Primary species taken are mallard, pintail, gadwall, wigeon, and green-winged teal.
Special Equipment
Dogs, decoys, waders, and canoe should be used as appropriate. Only motor-less boats are allowed.
Special Regulations
Non-toxic shot is required for all game bird hunting. Only motor-less boats are allowed and all state boating regulations apply. All decoys, boats, and personal items must be removed each day. A 100 yard retrieval zone is located adjacent to Silverlake Road in which no loaded firearms are allowed. Camping and overnight use is not permitted on the refuge. Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than one hour before shooting time. Off-road vehicle use is prohibited. See Waterfowl General Regulations for license & permit information.