Laws and Regulations
Please follow the rules and regulations below:
- The refuge is open during daylight hours only, except during hunting season.
- Areas within refuge boundaries may be closed to public entry and serve as sanctuary areas. Be aware of signs indicating closed areas.
- All hunters must obtain an complete a Daily Visitor Use Reporting Card upon entering the refuge (located at the two checks stations). Before leaving the refuge, users must complete card and deposit it in a drop box at one of the check stations.
- Searching for or removing any object of archeological or historical significance, including arrowheads, pottery, etc., as well as any natural materials such as plants, mushrooms, berries, and antler sheds is prohibited.
An annual recreational activity permit is required to fish or hunt on the refuge. Click here for more information or to purchase an annual recreational activity permit.
For a more comprehensive list of prohibited activities on Lake Ophelia NWR, please refer to the Hunting and Fishing Regulations.