Reelfoot Lake has become one of Tennessee's favorite destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, and readers of outdoor magazines are familiar with the many hunting and fishing opportunities offered on parts of the lake. Reelfoot NWR was created to provide a sanctuary for waterfowl on the northern third of the lake, ensuring that this area remains important waterfowl habitat. Waterfowl hunting is prohibited on the refuge but is common on other parts of the lake. The refuge does offer hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, squirrel and raccoon, with seasons held to minimize disturbance to migrating birds. The archery deer hunt is general access and is held in October. The two-day firearms deer hunt, issued by quota, is held on two units of the refuge. A quota turkey hunt is held in the spring.
