Hunting is an important wildlife management tool that the National Refuge System recognizes as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. It also happens to be a popular activity on Felsenthal NWR enjoyed by local residents and out of town visitors. Refer to the Refuge’s Public Use Regulations for a complete list specific seasons and regulations as they are updated annually.

*** Felsenthal NWR is proposing regulation changes that could provide more hunting/fishing opportunities during the current season. Please check back online, at the refuge office, or at the brochure boxes in October/November 2026 for an updated brochure or permit at that time. When new regulations are enacted; printed publications will be issued and on-line publications will be updated.***

NEW this year on the Refuge:

• A doe is no longer required to be harvested prior to a buck. 
• Harvested deer are no longer required to be checked at a refuge self-check or staffed check station. However, hunters are encouraged to have harvested deer tested for CWD during the first two days of the Modern Gun Hunt at the Shop Check station.
• A legal buck will be defined per AGFC state regulation. Felsenthal NWR is within the AGFC's Tier 2 CWD Management Zone. All regulations apply. Please have any harvested deer tested for CWD at designated CWD testing locations. To report sick deer, please contact AGFC at 1800/482 9262
• No Wake Zones in the Hebie Cut, Pine Island Boat Canal, Tom Grider Slough, Shallow Lake Boat Canal, and Lapile Creek will no longer be enforced during waterfowl season. 

Quota Hunt Information and Procedures:

Quota Hunt application, permit, and all payments must be processed online. Read and review the following information regarding all procedures. 

Applications are accepted during the month of August for the Modern Gun Quota Deer Hunts. 

All applicants are subject to a $5.00 non-refundable application fee for quota hunts. Successful applicants will be charged an additional $15.00 per permit fee. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. 

Unclaimed permits will be available for the Modern Gun Quota Deer Hunt and may be purchased on a first come first serve basis during the two weeks prior to the scheduled Hunts.

Muzzleloader Quota Deer Hunt permits go on sale August 1st at noon while supplies last. 

Turkey Quota Hunt permits go on sale January 15th at noon while supplies last. 

Felsenthal NWR Quota Hunt Permit Sale Site 

For questions or help with applications or procedures please contact the Refuge Office at (870) 364-3167.