Willapa National Wildlife Refuge contains 21,000 acres of uplands and tidelands divided into several management units. All State of Washington hunting regulations apply in addition to all federal and special Refuge regulations. Trapping and baiting are prohibited. All hunting on the refuge is free of charge.
Waterfowl
In and around Willapa Bay: Waterfowl hunting is permitted in designated areas at the Leadbetter Point, Stanley Point, North Potshot, South Potshot, Riekkola, South Bay, North and South Nemah shorelines and Willapa Bay Units according to Federal and State regulations. Please refer to brochure below: "Goose Hunt Area" is open to all waterfowl hunting (geese and ducks) on designated days and is described as such to showcase what is likely to be in the area given the habitat type. The "Goose Hunt Area" is freshwater grassland, while the "Waterfowl Hunt Area" is tidal marsh. Blinds 1, 2, 3 (ADA), and 8 are Box blinds; Blinds 4, 5, 6, and 7 are Pit blinds.
Leadbetter Point: Open to waterfowl, coot and snipe hunting. Hunting may occur 150 yards north of the yellow/Bearberry Trail. A Washington State Discover Pass is required to access the Leadbetter Unit from Stackpole Road.
Long Island: The waters surrounding Long Island and much of southern Willapa Bay are closed to all waterfowl hunting by Presidential Proclamation. Please check Refuge map and signs for exact boundaries.
Big Game
Nemah (GMU 673): The Nemah GMU includes parcel northeast and across the Naselle River from Stanley Point. North Nemah has parking; the
remainder of this unit is boat access only from Willapa Bay or the Naselle River.
East Hills (GMU 681): The East Hills GMU is from Teal Slough to Bear River. The area around the Art and Cutthroat Climb Trails and immediately north of Bear River are closed to hunting. There is private property north of Greenhead Slough to Omeara Point. Access to the southeastern most portion of the Refuge requires boat access.
South Bay (GMU 684): Includes designated portions of South Bay and South Bay Hills units. These units can be accessed by 67th Place from Sandridge Road in Long Beach or by boat from Willapa Bay.
Leadbetter Point: This unit allows regulated early muzzleloader elk season only, no other big game hunting is allowed on the unit. A WDFW permit/ hunt-by-reservation is required for the early muzzleloader elk season (available 14 days prior to opening day): application for the WDFW Hunt-By-Reservation permit. Find more information about this hunt on the Washington Depart of Fish and Wildlife Leadbetter Point site. Hunting may occur 150 yards north of the yellow/Bearberry Trail. Firearms must remain unloaded on the trail and hunters should be aware that the unit is also open to hiking along the established trails and along the ocean beach.
Long Island (GMU 699): Hunting firearms and dogs are prohibited on the island. Check local tide conditions. Access the campgrounds at 6 feet or higher tide. Long Island is ARCHERY ONLY, Hunters may hunt deer during modern firearm season, but must possess a valid modern firearm big game license and use archery equipment. Please see our Camping page for information regarding camping on Long Island. For the 2026-27 season campground reservations will be available and required from September 4-24, 2026.
Hunting on Private Lands: For information visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's Private Lands Hunting Access page.
