Texas Chenier Plains Refuge Complex Welcomes Waterfowl Hunters

As fall migration peaks, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reminds hunters that the Texas Chenier Plains Refuge Complex on the Texas coast are open for public waterfowl hunting. The National Wildlife Refuges in the Complex offer broad hunting opportunities focused on species like the blue-winged teal, green-winged teal, gadwall, northern pintail and northern shoveler.

Jocelyn Nungaray (formerly Anahuac) National Wildlife Refuge features designated hunt areas such as the East Unit, with over 50 spots accessible by foot or shallow boat, offering quality hunts in marsh and prairie habitat. McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge is known for hosting large duck concentrations during migration, and provides broader access across extensive freshwater and brackish marshes. Popular areas like Star Lake, Clam Lake and Mud Bayou provide hunters with access to public land hunting opportunities in America’s great outdoors.

Daily and annual hunting permits are required. Permits can be purchased with cash at the Refuge Office, located at 4017 M-563, Anahuac, Texas 77514, and 7950 S. Gulfway Drive, Sabine Pass Texas, 77655 during regular business hours 7:30am to 3:30pm. During the regular waterfowl season, permits will also be available at the check stations at Jocelyn Nungaray and McFaddin National Wildlife Refuges.

To maintain a high-quality hunting experience, fees for daily and annual hunting permits have increased. Annual access permits, which grant holders entry to applicable areas within the complex, have increased recently from $40 to $48, and daily entry permits, which grant short term access to spaced blind hunting areas and the East Unit, have increased from $10 to $12. This change brings the Refuge more in line with permit fees at nearby public lands and national wildlife refuges. Through this hunt fee approach, your hunting permit purchases directly support visitor services at the refuge. Supported projects may include improving public roads, providing staff at check stations, and maintaining the vital habitat that migratory waterfowl rely on.

Hunters must carry valid federal and state duck stamps in addition to the refuge permit. Navigating wetland channels and soft soils can be challenging; appropriate gear and local guidance are strongly recommended. For more information on hunting regulations, dates, and safety guidelines, please visit our website or contact the refuge office a 409-267-3337 or email christopher_campbell@fws.gov.