Ruby Lake NWR, which supports one of the largest populations of nesting canvasback ducks in the West, is a vital waterfowl nesting area. In the fall, it is also a prime spot for Nevada waterfowlers. Due to its 6,000-foot elevation, the marsh protected by the refuge can freeze early, so hunting is more reliable early in the season. Hunting pressure is typically light, and hunters can access the hunting area by foot or boat. Boating is only allowed until December 31. A wide variety of duck species and Canada geese are on the refuge in the early fall. Hunters are reminded that there is a population of trumpeter swans on the refuge. To protect them, shooting any white-colored birds (including snow geese) is prohibited. A few hunters also walk the marsh grass to flush snipe, which congregate along the edges in early fall. Shooting can be fast for these small, sporty game birds that very few hunters pursue. ATVs and snowmobiles are not permitted on the refuge
Check out our Ruby Lake online Hunting & Fishing Brochure for more info and maps!