# National Wildlife Refuge System; 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A2026-10465

## Record

- **Collection:** Federal Register
- **Document type:** Proposed Rule
- **Published:** May 27, 2026
- **Citation:** 91 FR 31580

## Text

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Parts 32 and 71
[Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223; FXRS12610900000-267-FF09R20000]
RIN 1018-BI71
National Wildlife Refuge System; 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations

AGENCY:

Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION:

Proposed rule.

SUMMARY:

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to open or expand hunting opportunities on 111 field stations, including 107 units of the National Wildlife Refuges System (Refuge System or NWRS) and 4 units of the National Fish Hatchery System (Hatchery System or NFHS). This includes opening hunting or sport fishing opportunities for the first time on 14 National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) and 3 National Fish Hatcheries (NFH). The proposed actions will open or expand more than 1,450 opportunities for hunting and fishing across the NWRS and NFHS. In accordance with Secretary's Order 3447 and Director's Order 233, we also propose to make changes to existing station-specific regulations in order to improve the clarity and accuracy of regulations, reduce the regulatory burden on the public, ensure consistency across FWS lands and waters, and comply with a Presidential mandate for plain-language standards.

DATES:

Comments will be accepted on or before June 26, 2026. Comments submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see
ADDRESSES
, below) must be received by 11:59 p.m. eastern time on the closing date.

To ensure your comment is received and considered, you must submit it using one of the methods identified in the
ADDRESSES
section of this document. Comments submitted through any method not authorized in this document, or sent to an address not listed here, will not be considered.

Information collection requirements:
If you wish to comment on the information collection requirements in this proposed rule, please note that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is required to make a decision concerning the collection of information contained in this proposed rule between 30 and 60 days after the date of publication of this proposed rule in the
Federal Register
. Therefore, comments should be submitted to the Service Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (see “Information collection requirements” below under
ADDRESSES
) by July 27, 2026.

ADDRESSES:

Comment submission:
All submissions must include the docket number (FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223) for this document. You must submit comments using one of the following methods:

•
Electronically:
Federal eRulemaking Portal:
https://www.regulations.gov.
In the Search box, type in FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the Search button. On the resulting screen, find the correct document and submit a comment by clicking on “Comment.”

•
Submit by U.S. mail or hand delivery:
Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 5275 Leesburg Pike, MS: PRB (JAO/3W), Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.

Comments submitted through any method not authorized in this document, or sent to an address not listed here, will not be considered. We will not accept comments via email, fax, or hand delivery. We are not required to consider comments that are submitted after the comment period ends or that are submitted via a method outside of these instructions. Comments containing profanity, vulgarity, threats, or other inappropriate content will not be considered.

We will post all comments at
https://www.regulations.gov.
You may request that we withhold personal identifying information from public review; however, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.

Supporting documents:
For information on a specific refuge's or hatchery's public use program and the conditions that apply to it, contact the respective Regional office at the address or phone number given in Available Information for Specific Stations under
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
, below.

Information collection requirements:
Send your comments on the information collection request to the Service Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, by one of the methods specified above. Please reference OMB Control Number 1018-0140 in your comments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Julie Henning, Branch Chief of Conservation Planning and Policy,
julie_henning@fws.gov.
Please see Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223 on
https://www.regulations.gov
for a document that summarizes this proposed rule.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended (Administration Act; 16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee), closes NWRs in all States except Alaska to all uses until opened. The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) may open refuge areas to any use, including hunting and/or sport fishing, upon a determination that the use is compatible with the purposes of the refuge and Refuge System mission. The action also must be in accordance with provisions of all laws applicable to the areas, developed in coordination with the appropriate State fish and wildlife agency(ies), consistent with the principles of sound fish and wildlife management and administration, and otherwise in the public interest. These requirements ensure that we maintain the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the Refuge System for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

We annually review hunting and sport fishing programs to determine whether to include additional stations or whether individual station regulations governing existing programs need modifications. Changing environmental conditions, State and Federal regulations, and other factors affecting fish and wildlife populations and habitat may warrant modifications to station-specific regulations to ensure the continued compatibility of hunting and sport fishing programs and to ensure that these programs will not materially interfere with or detract from the fulfillment of station purposes or the Refuge System's mission.

Provisions governing hunting and sport fishing on refuges are in title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) at part 32 (50 CFR part 32), and provisions for hatcheries at part 71 (50 CFR part 71). We regulate hunting and sport fishing to:

• Ensure compatibility with refuge and hatchery purpose(s);

• Properly manage fish and wildlife resource(s);

• Protect other values;

• Ensure visitor safety; and

• Provide opportunities for fish- and wildlife-dependent recreation.

On many stations where we decide to allow hunting and sport fishing, our general policy of adopting regulations identical to State hunting and sport fishing regulations is adequate to meet these objectives. On other stations, we must supplement State regulations with more-restrictive Federal regulations to

ensure that we meet our management responsibilities, as outlined under Statutory Authority, below. We issue station-specific hunting and sport fishing regulations when we open NWRs and NFHs to migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, or sport fishing. These regulations may list the wildlife species that you may hunt or fish; seasons; bag or creel (container for carrying fish) limits; methods of hunting or sport fishing; descriptions of areas open to hunting or sport fishing; and other provisions as appropriate.

Statutory Authority

The Administration Act, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (Improvement Act; Pub. L. 105-57), governs the administration and public use of refuges, and the Refuge Recreation Act of 1962 (Recreation Act; 16 U.S.C. 460k-460k-4) governs the administration and public use of refuges and hatcheries.

Amendments enacted by the Improvement Act were built upon the Administration Act in a manner that provides an “organic act” for the Refuge System, similar to organic acts that exist for other public Federal lands. The Improvement Act serves to ensure that we effectively manage the Refuge System as a national network of lands, waters, and interests for the protection and conservation of our Nation's wildlife resources. The Administration Act states first and foremost that we focus our Refuge System mission on conservation of fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats. The Improvement Act requires the Secretary, before allowing a new use of a refuge, or before expanding, renewing, or extending an existing use of a refuge, to determine that the use is compatible with the purpose for which the refuge was established and the mission of the Refuge System. The Improvement Act established as the policy of the United States that wildlife-dependent recreation, when compatible, is a legitimate and appropriate public use of the Refuge System, through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife. The Improvement Act established six wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the Refuge System. These uses are hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation.

The Recreation Act authorizes the Secretary to administer areas within the Refuge and Hatchery Systems for public recreation as an appropriate incidental or secondary use only to the extent that doing so is practicable and not inconsistent with the primary purpose(s) for which Congress and the Service established the areas. The Recreation Act requires that any recreational use of refuge or hatchery lands be compatible with the primary purpose(s) for which we established the refuge and not inconsistent with other previously authorized operations.

The Administration Act and Recreation Act also authorize the Secretary to issue regulations to carry out the purposes of the Acts and regulate public uses.

We develop specific management plans for each refuge prior to opening it to hunting or sport fishing. In many cases, we develop station-specific regulations to ensure the compatibility of the hunting and fishing programs with the purpose(s) for which we established the refuge or hatchery and the Refuge or Hatchery System mission, respectively. We ensure initial compliance with the Administration Act and the Recreation Act for hunting and sport fishing on newly acquired land through an interim determination of compatibility made at or near the time of acquisition. These regulations ensure that we make the determinations required by these acts prior to adding refuges or hatcheries to the lists of areas open to hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR parts 32 or 71, respectively. We ensure continued compliance by the development of comprehensive conservation plans and step-down management plans, and by annual review of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations.

Proposed Amendments to Existing Regulations

This proposal is part of an annual review of hunting and sport fishing regulations for the Refuge and Hatchery Systems and represents our proposed changes that would be effective beginning with the 2026-2027 hunting/fishing season. This proposal is meant to better inform the general public of the regulations at each station, to increase understanding and compliance with these regulations, and to make enforcement of these regulations more efficient. In addition to publishing the revised regulations in 50 CFR parts 32 and 71, visitors to our stations may find them reiterated in literature distributed by each station or posted on signs. Attachment A: Proposed Openings and Expansions for the 2026-2027 Hunting/Sport Fishing Season, provided in the supporting documents in Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223 on
https://www.regulations.gov,
summarizes the proposed increased access to hunting and sport fishing opportunities at each of the 111 field stations, and specifically denotes the openings and expansions of migratory bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and/or sport fishing, respectively, on each station.

The changes for the 2026-2027 season are based on a complete administrative record, which includes a hunt plan, a compatibility determination (for refuges), the appropriate National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321
et seq.
) analysis, and other documents. These documents are also subject to a public review and comment process, see discussion below under
National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
All of these documents are available upon request, see
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT,
above.

Special Topics in This Rulemaking Related to Lead Use

In 2022 and 2023, the Service finalized regulations requiring the use of non-lead shot shells, single-fire ammunition, and/or fishing tackle at nine NWRs (87 FR 57108, September 16, 2022, and 88 FR 74050, October 30, 2023). These regulations are scheduled to go into effect on September 1, 2026. The Service proposes in the current rulemaking to rescind these regulations and invites the public to comment on the proposed changes. Table 1, below, summarizes the previously finalized provisions that are not in effect at this time.

Table 1—Non-Lead Ammunition and Tackle Regulations for Nine NWRs

State
National Wildlife Refuge
Previously Finalized Regulation, not in effect until September 1, 2026

Indiana
Patoka River NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (87 FR 57108 at 57129, September 16, 2022).

Maine
Great Thicket NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74064, October 30, 2023).

Maine
Rachel Carson NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74064, October 30, 2023).

Maryland
Blackwater NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74064, October 30, 2023).

Maryland
Eastern Neck NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74064, October 30, 2023).

Maryland
Patuxent Research Refuge
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74064, October 30, 2023).

Pennsylvania
Erie NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74065, October 30, 2023).

Virginia
Chincoteague NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells and ammunition while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74066, October 30, 2023).

Virginia
Wallops Island NWR
You may only use or possess approved non-lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle while in the field (88 FR 74050 at 74066, October 30, 2023).

Additionally, the Service requests comments on the use of lead ammunition at Canaan Valley NWR in West Virginia. The Service is seeking public comment on whether or not the Service should promulgate a lead-free requirement for hunting on the entire Canaan Valley NWR, with immediate or delayed effect (
i.e.,
a phase out). See Request for Comments, below, for information on how to provide comments.

Fish Advisory

For health reasons, anglers should review and follow State-issued consumption advisories before enjoying recreational sport fishing opportunities on Service-managed waters. You can find information about current fish-consumption advisories on the internet at
https://www.epa.gov/choose-fish-and-shellfish-wisely.

Request for Comments

You must submit comments and materials on this proposed rule by one of the methods listed in
ADDRESSES
. We will not accept comments sent by email or fax or to an address not listed in
ADDRESSES
. We will not consider hand-delivered comments that we do not receive, or mailed comments that are not postmarked, by the date specified in
DATES
.

We will post your entire comment on
https://www.regulations.gov.
Before including personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that we may make your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. We will post all hardcopy comments on
https://www.regulations.gov.

Required Determinations

Clarity of This Proposed Rule

Executive Orders (E.O.s) 12866 and 12988 and the Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, require us to write all rules in plain language. This means that each rule we publish must:

(a) Be logically organized;

(b) Use the active voice to address readers directly;

(c) Use clear language rather than jargon;

(d) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and

(e) Use lists and tables wherever possible.

If you feel that we have not met these requirements, send us comments by one of the methods listed in
ADDRESSES
. To better help us revise the rule, your comments should be as specific as possible. For example, you should tell us the numbers of the sections or paragraphs that are unclearly written, which sections or sentences are too long, the sections where you feel lists or tables would be useful, etc.

Regulatory Planning and Review (E.O.s 12866 and 13563)

E.O. 12866 provides that the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the OMB will review all significant rules. OIRA has determined that this proposed rule is not significant.

E.O. 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while calling for improvements in the Nation's regulatory system to promote predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends. E.O. 13563 directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and consistent with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further that regulations must be based on the best available science and that the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open exchange of ideas. We have developed these proposed revisions and additions to the CFR in a manner consistent with these requirements.

Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601
et seq.
)

Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA; 5 U.S.C. 601
et seq.
), as amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA; 5 U.S.C. 801
et seq.
), whenever a Federal agency is required to publish a notice of rulemaking for any proposed or final rule, it must prepare and make available for public comment a regulatory flexibility analysis that describes the effect of the rule on small entities (
i.e.,
small businesses, small organizations, and small government jurisdictions). However, no regulatory flexibility analysis is required if the head of an agency certifies that the rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. Thus, for a regulatory flexibility analysis to be required, impacts must exceed a threshold for “significant impact” and a threshold for a “substantial number of small entities” (see 5 U.S.C. 605(b)). SBREFA amended the RFA to require Federal agencies to provide a statement of the factual basis for certifying that a rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

This proposed rule would open or expand hunting or fishing on 111 FWS stations. For the full statement of the anticipated economic impact of this increased recreational access for hunters and anglers through changes in participation and associated changes to local economic activity around the

individual stations, please see the supporting document “Attachment B: Regulatory Flexibility Act Economic Analysis” in Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223 on
https://www.regulations.gov.
The Attachment B analysis details that the maximum estimate for the potential impact of added hunter and angler spending on local economies is approximately $2.2 million annually, but given that most of the increased access will just be a substitute activity for existing hunting and most hunters and anglers travel no more than 100 miles, the true impact on local economies is more likely to be approximately $1.1 million annually.

With the small change in overall spending anticipated from this proposed rule, it is unlikely that a substantial number of small entities will have more than a small impact from the spending change near the affected stations. Therefore, we certify that this rule, as proposed, will not have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities as defined under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601
et seq.
). A regulatory flexibility analysis is not required. Accordingly, a small entity compliance guide is not required.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531
et seq.
)

Since this proposed rule would apply to public use of federally owned and managed refuges, it would not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local, or Tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100 million per year. The proposed rule would not have a significant or unique effect on State, local, or Tribal governments or the private sector. A statement containing the information required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531
et seq.
) is not required.

Takings (E.O. 12630)

In accordance with E.O. 12630, this proposed rule would not have significant takings implications. This proposed rule would affect only NWRS and NFHS visitors and would describe what they can do while they are on a Service station.

Federalism (E.O. 13132)

As discussed under
Regulatory Planning and Review
and
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act,
above, this proposed rule would not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism summary impact statement under E.O. 13132. In preparing this proposed rule, we worked with State governments.

Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)

In accordance with E.O. 12988, the Department of the Interior has determined that this proposed rule would not unduly burden the judicial system and that it meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of the E.O.

Energy Supply, Distribution or Use (E.O. 13211)

On May 18, 2001, the President issued E.O. 13211 on regulations that significantly affect energy supply, distribution, or use. E.O. 13211 requires agencies to prepare statements of energy effects when undertaking certain actions. Because this proposed rule would open or expand hunting at 111 stations, it is not a significant regulatory action under E.O. 12866, and we do not expect it to significantly affect energy supplies, distribution, or use. Therefore, this action is not a significant energy action, and no statement of energy effects is required.

Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments (E.O. 13175)

In accordance with E.O. 13175, we have evaluated possible effects on federally recognized Indian Tribes and have determined that there are no effects. We coordinate recreational use on NWRs and NFHs with Tribal governments having adjoining or overlapping jurisdiction before we propose the regulations.

Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)

This rule contains existing collections of information. All information collections require approval by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA; 44 U.S.C. 3501
et seq.
). An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB has reviewed and approved the information collection requirements associated with hunting and sport fishing activities across the National Wildlife Refuge System and National Fish Hatchery System and assigned the following OMB control numbers:

• 1018-0140, “Hunting and Sport Fishing Application Forms and Activity Reports for National Wildlife Refuges, 50 CFR 25.41, 25.43, 25.51, 26.32, 26.33, 27.42, 30.11, 31.15, 32.1 to 32.72” (Expires 12/31/2028),

• 1018-0102, “National Wildlife Refuge Special Use Permit Applications and Reports, 50 CFR 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, & 36” (Expires 04/30/2026, and in accordance with 5 CFR 1320.10, an agency may continue to conduct or sponsor this collection of information while the submission is pending at OMB),

• 1018-0135, “Electronic Federal Duck Stamp Program” (Expires 06/30/2028),

• 1018-0093, “Federal Fish and Wildlife Permit Applications and Reports-Management Authority; 50 CFR 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23” (Expires 12/31/2026), and

• 1024-0252, “The Interagency Access Pass and Senior Pass Application Processes” (Expires 10/31/2027).

In accordance with the PRA and its implementing regulations at 5 CFR 1320.8(d)(1), we provide the general public and other Federal agencies with an opportunity to comment on our intent to ask OMB to approval an extension without change to OMB Control Number 1018-0140.

As part of our continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burdens, and in accordance with 5 CFR 1320.8(d)(1), we invite the public and other Federal agencies to comment on any aspect of this proposed information collection, including:

(1) Whether or not the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether or not the information will have practical utility;

(2) The accuracy of our estimate of the burden for this collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(3) Ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(4) Ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology,
e.g.,
permitting electronic submission of response.

The existing reporting and/or recordkeeping requirements identified below require approval by OMB:

FORM 3-2358, “SPORT FISHING-SHRIMPING-CRABBING PERMIT APPLICATION”
—Form 3-2358 collects the following information:

• Date of application: We often have application deadlines, and this information helps staff determine the order in which we received the applications. It also ensures that the information is current.

• State fishing license number: We ask for this information to verify the applicant is legally licensed by the State (where required).

• Permit type: On sport fishing permits, we ask what type of activity (crabbing, shrimping, crabbing, frogging, etc.) is being applied for.

• Applicant information: We collect name, address, phone number(s), and email so we can contact the applicant/permittee either during the application process or after receiving a permit.

• Signature and date: To confirm that the applicant (and parent/guardian, if a youth hunter) understands the terms and conditions of the permit.

FORM 3-2405 “SELF-CLEARING CHECK-IN/OUT PERMIT”
—Form 3-2405 has three parts:

1.
Self-Clearing Daily Check-in Permit.
Each user completes this portion of the form (date of visit, name, and telephone numbers) and deposits it in the permit box prior to engaging in any activity on the refuge.

2.
Self-Clearing Daily Visitor Registration Permit.
Each user must complete the front side of the form (date, name, city, State, zip code, and purpose of visit) and carry this portion while on the refuge. At the completion of the visit, each user must complete the reverse side of the form (number of hours on refuge, harvest information (species and number), harvest method, angler information (species and number), and wildlife sighted (
e.g.,
black bear and hog)) and deposit it in the permit box.

3.
Self-Clearing Daily Vehicle Permit.
The driver and each user traveling in the vehicle must complete this part and display in clear view in the vehicle while on the refuge.

Form 3-2405 collects:

• Information on the visitor (name, address, and contact information). We use this information to identify the visitor or driver/passenger of a vehicle while on the refuge. This is extremely valuable information should visitors become lost or injured. Law enforcement officers can easily check vehicles for these cards in order to determine a starting point for the search or to contact family members in the event of an abandoned vehicle. Having this information readily available is critical in a search and rescue situation.

• Purpose of visit (hunting, sport fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, auto touring, birding, hiking, boating/canoeing, visitor center, special event, environmental education class, volunteering, other recreation). This information is critical in determining public use participation in wildlife management programs. This not only allows the refuge to manage its hunt and other visitor use programs, but also to increase and/or improve facilities for non-consumptive uses that are becoming more popular on refuges. Data collected will also help managers better allocate staff and resources to serve the public as well as develop annual performance measures.

• Total number of hunt days on the refuge (at the conclusion of their hunting activities). Refuge management will use this information to monitor and evaluate hunt quality and resource impacts.

• Success of harvest by hunters/anglers (number and type of harvest/caught). This information is critical to wildlife management programs on refuges. Each refuge will customize the form by listing game species and incidental species available on the refuge, hunting methods allowed, and data needed for certain species (
e.g.,
for deer, whether it's a buck or doe and the number of points; or for turkeys, the weight and beard and spur lengths).

• Whether or not visitors observed black bear or hogs, for example. This information will help managers develop annual performance measures for hog removal, and it provides information to help develop resource management planning.

• Photograph of animal harvested (specific refuges only). This requirement documents the sex of animal prior to the hunter being eligible to harvest the opposite sex (where allowed).

• Date of visit and/or area visited.

• Comments. We encourage visitors to comment on their experience.

Refuges may customize Form 3-2405 to remove questions identified above which are not applicable to their site. However, they may not add new questions not approved by OMB.

FORM 3-2439, “HUNTING APPLICATION/PERMIT”
—Form 3-2439 collects the following information:

• Lottery application: Refuges who administer hunting via a lottery system use Form 3-2439 as the lottery application. If the applicant is successful, the completed Form 3-2439 also serves as their permit application, avoiding a duplication of burden on the public filling out two separate forms.

• Date of application: We often have application deadlines, and this information helps staff determine the order in which we received the applications. It also ensures that the information is current.

• Methods: Some refuges hold multiple types of hunts (
i.e.
archery, shotgun, primitive weapons, etc). We ask for this information to identify which opportunity(ies) a hunter is applying for.

• Species permit type: Some refuges allow only certain species, such as moose, elk, or bighorn sheep, to be hunted. We ask hunters to identify which species hunt they are applying for.

• Applicant information: We collect name, address, phone number(s), and email so we can contact the applicant/permittee either during the application process, when the applicant is successful in a lottery drawing, or after receiving a permit.

• Party members: Some refuges allow the permit applicant to include additional hunters in their group. We collect the names of all additional hunters, when allowed by the refuge.

• Parent/Guardian contact information: We collect name, relationship, address, phone number(s), and email for a parent/guardian of youth hunters. We ask for this information in the event of an emergency.

• Date: We ask hunters for their preferences for hunt dates.

• Hunt/Blind location: We ask hunters for their preferences for hunt units, areas, or blinds.

• Special hunts: Some refuges hold special hunts for youth, hunters who are disabled, or other underserved populations. We ask hunters to identify if they are applying for these special hunts. For youth hunts, we ask for the age of the hunter at the time of the hunt.

• Signature and date: To confirm that the applicant (and parent/guardian, if a youth hunter) understands the terms and conditions of the permit.

• Disabled hunts: Some refuges provide an option to allow mobility-impaired applicants to reserve specific hunting blinds upon providing proof of disability. The refuge will not retain the proof of disability. The documentation will be shredded upon approval of the blind reservation.

• Mentored Hunts: For refuges conducting mentored hunts, the Service and partners collect the following information to determine eligibility for the program the hunter applies to participate in. The Service requires all mentored hunt participants to sign the Service's “USFWS Release and Waiver of Liability,” as well as a Form 3-2260, “Agreement for Use of Likeness in Audio/Visual Products,” when they are on the Refuge.

—Emergency contact (name and phone number);

—Applicant hunting history, such as:

—Whether applicant has completed a basic hunter education course;

—Whether applicant has purchased a hunting license, and if yes, when;

—Previous hunting experience;

—Previous participation in a mentored hunt program;

—Interest in hunting;

—Family history of hunting;

—Whether applicant owns equipment and if yes, type of equipment; and

—Medical conditions/allergies for program staff to be aware of in the event of an emergency.

Refuges offering hunting opportunities may customize Form 3-2439 to remove questions identified above which are not applicable to their hunting seasons. However, they may not add new questions not approved by OMB.

FORM 3-2542, “HUNTER HARVEST REPORT”
—Form 3-2542 collects the following information:

• State-issued hunter identification (ID)/license number. (
Note:
Refuges/hatcheries who rely on the State agency to issue hunting permits are not required to collect the permittee's personal identifying information (PII) on the harvest form. Those refuges/hatcheries may opt to collect only the State ID number assigned to the hunter in order to match harvest data with their issued permit. Refuges/hatcheries will collect either hunter PII or State-issued ID number, but not both.)

• Species observed—Data will be used by refuge/hatchery staff to document the presence of rare or unusual species.

• Permit number/type—Data will be used to link the harvest report to the issued permit.

• Hunt tag number—Data will be used to link the harvest report to the species-specific hunt tag.

• Number of youth (younger than age 18) in party—Data will be used to better understand volume of youth hunting on a refuge/hatchery. Specific hunter names are not collected, just total number of youths in hunting party.

• Harvested by—Data will be used to determine ratio of adults to youth hunters. Specific hunter names are not collected.

• Species observed—Data will be used by a refuge/hatchery to determine the presence of any unusual species (
e.g.,
endangered or threatened species, or invasive species).

Refuges offering hunting opportunities may customize Form 3-2542 to remove questions identified above which are not applicable to their hunting seasons. However, they may not add new questions not approved by OMB.

LABELING/MARKING REQUIREMENTS
—As a condition of the permit, some refuges require permittees to label hunting and/or sport fishing gear used on the refuge. This equipment may include items such as the following: tree stands, blinds, or game cameras; hunting dogs (collars); flagging/trail markers; boats; and/or sport fishing equipment such as jugs, trotlines, and crawfish or crab traps. Refuges require the owner label their equipment with their last name, the State-issued hunting/fishing license number, and/or hunting/fishing permit number. Refuges may also require equipment for youth hunters include “YOUTH” on the label. This minimal information is necessary in the event the refuge needs to contact the owner.

REQUIRED NOTIFICATIONS
—On occasion, hunters may find their game has landed outside of established hunting boundaries. In this situation, hunters must notify an authorized refuge employee to obtain consent to retrieve the game from an area closed to hunting or entry only upon specific consent. Certain refuges also require hunters to notify the refuge manager when hunting specific species (
e.g.,
black bear, bobcat, or eastern coyote) with trailing dogs. Refuges encompassing privately owned lands, referred to as “easement overlay refuges,” may also require the hunter obtain written or oral permission from the landowner prior to accessing the land.

Copies of the draft forms contained in this information collection are available to the public by submitting a request to the Service Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: PRB/PERMA (JAO), 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803 (mail); or by email to
Info_Coll@fws.gov.

Title of Collection:
Hunting and Fishing Application Forms and Activity Reports for National Wildlife Refuges and National Fish Hatcheries (50 CFR parts 32 and 71).

OMB Control Number:
1018-0140.

Form Numbers:
3-2348, 3-2405, 3-2439, and 3-2542.

Type of Review:
Extension of a currently approved collection.

Respondents/Affected Public:
Individuals/households.

Total Estimated Number of Annual Respondents:
1,632,759.

Total Estimated Number of Annual Responses:
1,632,759.

Estimated Completion Time per Response:
Varies from 5 minutes to 30 minutes, depending on activity.

Total Estimated Number of Annual Burden Hours:
265,232.

Respondent's Obligation:
Required to obtain or retain a benefit.

Frequency of Collection:
On occasion for applications; annually or on occasion for reports.

Total Estimated Annual Non-hour Burden Cost:
$87,403 (primarily associated with application fees at some refuges hunting and/or sport fishing).

Comments that you submit in response to the proposed revisions and additions to the information collection are a matter of public record. Before including your address, phone number, email address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.

Send your written comments and suggestions on this information collection by the date indicated in
DATES
to the Service Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, by one of the methods specified above in
ADDRESSES
. Please reference OMB Control Number 1018-0140 in your comments.

Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531
et seq.
)

We comply with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531
et seq.
), when developing comprehensive conservation plans and step-down management plans—which includes hunting and/or fishing plans—for public use of refuges and hatcheries, and prior to implementing any new or revised public recreation program on a station as identified in 50 CFR 26.32. We complied with section 7 for each of the stations affected by this proposed rulemaking.

National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321
et seq.
)

We analyzed this proposed rule in accordance with the criteria of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4332(C)) and 516 Departmental Manual (DM) 8.

A categorical exclusion from NEPA documentation applies to publication of proposed amendments to station-specific hunting and fishing regulations because they are technical and procedural in nature, and the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis (516 DM 8). Concerning the actions that are the subject of this proposed rulemaking, we have complied with NEPA at the project level when developing each proposal. This is consistent with the Department of the Interior instructions for compliance with NEPA where

actions are covered sufficiently by an earlier environmental document.

Prior to the addition of a refuge or hatchery to the list of areas open to hunting and fishing in 50 CFR parts 32 and 71, we develop hunting and fishing plans for the affected stations. We incorporate these proposed station hunting and fishing activities in the station comprehensive conservation plan and/or other step-down management plans, pursuant to our refuge planning guidance in 602 Fish and Wildlife Service Manual (FW) 1, 3, and 4. We prepare these comprehensive conservation plans and step-down plans in compliance with section 102(2)(C) of NEPA and the Department of Interior's NEPA regulations at 43 CFR part 46. We invite the affected public to participate in the review, development, and implementation of these plans. Copies of all plans and NEPA compliance are available from the stations at the addresses provided below.

Available Information for Specific Stations

Individual refuges and hatcheries have information about public use programs and conditions that apply to their specific programs and maps of their respective areas. You can locate individual refuge information, including contact information, on
FWS.gov
. We also provide general information on our hunting program, including an interactive map of current hunting opportunities here:
https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/hunting.

Proposed Regulation Summary Table

The regulatory amendments set forth below are presented alongside existing station-specific regulations that have not been amended. For a table that provides additional clarity on which specific regulatory provisions have been amended, please see Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223 on
https://www.regulations.gov
for a separate document containing a table that provides additional clarity on which specific regulatory provisions have been amended and how they have been amended.

Primary Author

Christian Myers, Division of Natural Resources and Conservation Planning, National Wildlife Refuge System, is the primary author of this rulemaking document.

List of Subjects

50 CFR Part 32
Fishing, Hunting, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.

50 CFR Part 71
Fish, Fishing, Hunting, Wildlife.

Proposed Regulation Promulgation

For the reasons described in the preamble, we propose to amend title 50, chapter I, subchapters C and E of the CFR as set forth below:

Subchapter C—The National Wildlife Refuge System

PART 32—HUNTING AND FISHING

1. The authority citation for part 32 continues to read as follows:

Authority:

5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd-668ee, and 715i; Pub. L. 115-20, 131 Stat. 86.

2. Amend § 32.7 by revising and republishing paragraphs (e), (f), (m), (x), (z), (hh), and (oo) to read as follows:

§ 32.7
What refuge units are open to hunting and/or sport fishing?

(e)
California.

(1) Cibola National Wildlife Refuge.

(2) Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(3) Colusa National Wildlife Refuge.

(4) Delevan National Wildlife Refuge.

(5) Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

(6) Grasslands Wildlife Management Area.

(7) Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge.

(8) Havasu National Wildlife Refuge.

(9) Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

(10) Imperial National Wildlife Refuge.

(11) Kern National Wildlife Refuge.

(12) Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.

(13) Marin Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

(14) Merced National Wildlife Refuge.

(15) Modoc National Wildlife Refuge.

(16) Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge.

(17) Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge.

(18) Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge.

(19) San Diego National Wildlife Refuge.

(20) San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

(21) San Luis National Wildlife Refuge.

(22) San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

(23) Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge.

(24) Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.

(25) Sutter National Wildlife Refuge.

(26) Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(f) Colorado.

(1) Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge.

(2) Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge.

(3) Baca National Wildlife Refuge.

(4) Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge.

(5) Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge.

(6) Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge.

(7) Rocky Mountain Arsenal.

(m) Illinois.

(1) Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge.

(2) Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge.

(3) Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

(4) Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge.

(5) Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge.

(6) Great River National Wildlife Refuge.

(7) Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge.

(8) Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge.

(9) Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge.

(10) Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge.

(11) Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge.

(12) Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge.

(13) Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.

(x)
Mississippi.

(1) Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge.

(2) Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge.

(3) Dahomey National Wildlife Refuge.

(4) Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

(5) Hillside National Wildlife Refuge.

(6) Holt Collier National Wildlife Refuge.

(7) Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge.

(8) Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge.

(9) Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.

(10) Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge.

(11) St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge.

(12) Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge.

(13) Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge.

(14) Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge.

(z) Montana.

(1) Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(2) Benton Lake Wetland Management District.

(3) Black Coulee National Wildlife Refuge.

(4) Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge.

(5) Bowdoin Wetland Management District.

(6) Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge.

(7) Charles M. Russell Wetland Management District.

(8) Creedman Coulee National Wildlife Refuge.

(9) Grass Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(10) Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge.

(11) Hewitt Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(12) Lake Mason National Wildlife Refuge.

(13) Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge.

(14) Lamesteer National Wildlife Refuge.

(15) Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge.

(16) Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge.

(17) Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(18) Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge.

(19) Northeast Montana Wetland Management District.

(20) Northwest Montana Wetland Management District.

(21) Pablo National Wildlife Refuge.

(22) Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.

(23) Swan River National Wildlife Refuge.

(24) UL Bend National Wildlife Refuge.

(25) War Horse National Wildlife Refuge.

(hh)
North Dakota.

(1) Appert Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(2) Ardoch National Wildlife Refuge.

(3) Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge.

(4) Arrowwood Wetland Management District.

(5) Audubon National Wildlife Refuge.

(6) Audubon Wetland Management District.

(7) Bone Hill National Wildlife Refuge.

(8) Brumba National Wildlife Refuge.

(9) Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(10) Camp Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(11) Canefield Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(12) Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(13) Chase Lake Wetland Management District.

(14) Cottonwood Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(15) Crosby Wetland Management District.

(16) Dakota Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(17) Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge.

(18) Devils Lake Wetland Management District.

(19) Florence Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(20) Half Way Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(21) Hiddenwood Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(22) Hobart Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(23) Hutchinson Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(24) J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge.

(25) J. Clark Salyer Wetland Management District.

(26) Johnson Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(27) Kulm Wetland Management District.

(28) Lake Alice National Wildlife Refuge.

(29) Lake George National Wildlife Refuge.

(30) Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge.

(31) Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(32) Lake Nettie National Wildlife Refuge.

(33) Lake Otis National Wildlife Refuge.

(34) Lake Patricia National Wildlife Refuge.

(35) Lake Zahl National Wildlife Refuge.

(36) Lambs Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(37) Little Goose Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(38) Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(39) Long Lake Wetland Management District.

(40) Lords Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(41) Lost Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(42) Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge.

(43) Lostwood Wetland Management District.

(44) Maple River National Wildlife Refuge.

(45) McLean National Wildlife Refuge.

(46) Pleasant Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(47) Pretty Rock National Wildlife Refuge.

(48) Rabb Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(49) Rock Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(50) Rose Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(51) School Section National Wildlife Refuge.

(52) Sheyenne Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(53) Sibley Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(54) Silver Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(55) Slade National Wildlife Refuge.

(56) Snyder Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(57) Springwater National Wildlife Refuge.

(58) Stewart Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(59) Stoney Slough National Wildlife Refuge.

(60) Storm Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(61) Sunburst Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(62) Tewaukon National Wildlife Refuge.

(63) Tewaukon Wetland Management District.

(64) Tomahawk National Wildlife Refuge.

(65) Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge.

(66) White Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(67) Wild Rice National Wildlife Refuge.

(68) Willow Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(69) Wintering River National Wildlife Refuge.

(70) Wood Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(oo)
South Dakota.

(1) Huron Wetland Management District.

(2) Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge.

(3) Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge.

(4) Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge.

(5) Lake Andes Wetland Management District.

(6) Madison Wetland Management District.

(7) Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

(8) Sand Lake Wetland Management District.

(9) Waubay National Wildlife Refuge.

(10) Waubay Wetland Management District.

3. Amend § 32.20 by revising and republishing paragraphs (b) and (d) to read as follows:

§ 32.20
Alabama.

(b)
Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge.
(1) [Reserved]

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of quail, squirrel, rabbit, opossum, raccoon, coyote, and bobcat on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We require hunters to hunt as governed by Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' William R. Ireland, Sr.—Cahaba River Wildlife Management Area hunting permit conditions.

(ii) Hunters may hunt with shotguns using only #4 shot or smaller, rifles and handguns using rim-fire ammunition only, or archery equipment that complies with State and Federal regulations.

(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting upland game.

(iv) Hunters must remove tree stands, blinds, or other personal property from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow the hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and wild turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and (iv) of this section apply.

(ii) We prohibit the use of firearms for hunting deer on the refuge. However, you may archery hunt in the portions of the refuge that are open for deer hunting during the archery, shotgun, and muzzleloader seasons established by the State.

(iii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer. We also prohibit drives for feral hogs.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge.

(d)
Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of mourning dove and Eurasian-collared dove, duck, and goose on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) when hunting.

(ii) All youth hunters (ages 10 through 15) must remain within sight and normal voice contact of a properly licensed hunting adult age 21 or older. Youth hunters must possess and carry verification of passing a State-approved hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters.

(iii) All waterfowl hunting opportunities are spaced-blind and assigned by lottery. Hunters wishing to participate in our waterfowl hunt must submit a Waterfowl Lottery Application (FWS Form 3-2439, Hunt Application—National Wildlife Refuge System).

(iv) Hunters must remove all stands/blinds and other personal property at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(v) We allow access to the refuge for hunting from 1
1/2
hours before legal sunrise to 1
1/2
hours after legal sunset.

(vi) We prohibit drives. We define a drive as an organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause game to move in the direction of any person who is part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the game.

(vii) We prohibit hunting or observing from an elevated stand without use of a full body harness.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of gray squirrel and rabbit on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (d)(1)(i), (ii) and (v) through (vii) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow only shotguns and state-designated archery equipment as means of take for upland game hunting.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (d)(1)(i) and (v) through (vii) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow youth gun hunting opportunities that are spaced-blind and assigned by lottery. Hunters wishing to participate in our youth gun hunt must submit a Big/Upland Game Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-2439, Hunt Application—National Wildlife Refuge System).

(iii) All youth hunters must remain within sight and normal voice contact of a properly hunting-licensed adult age 21 or older. Youth hunters must possess and carry verification of passing a State-approved hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.

(iv) All big game hunting opportunities, except for youth gun, are archery-only.

(v) We close those portions of the refuge between Bustahatchee and Rood Creeks to archery hunting until November 1.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing, including bowfishing, in designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow shoreline access for fishing from 1 hour before legal sunrise to 1 hour after legal sunset.

(ii) We prohibit taking frog or turtle on all refuge lands and waters (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

(iii) We adopt reciprocal license agreements between Alabama and Georgia for fishing in Lake Eufaula. Anglers fishing in waters not directly connected to Lake Eufaula must be properly licensed for the State in which they are fishing.

4. Amend § 32.23 by revising and republishing paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (f), and (i) to read as follows:

§ 32.23
Arkansas.

(a)
Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, merganser, snipe, woodcock, rail, gallinule, crow, and dove on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must possess a signed refuge hunting permit.

(ii) During the quota gun deer hunt, we close the refuge to all other hunts and public entry, unless the refuge is closed to deer hunting at that time due to implementation of State flood closure zone regulations.

(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 5 a.m. and must exit the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.

(iv) We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon), with the exception that applicable goose species may be hunted until legal sunset during the State Conservation Order.

(v) When waterfowl hunting, you may not possess more than 25 shotgun shells while in the field, except that during the State Conservation Order, there is no limit on the number of shells you may possess while hunting applicable goose species.

(vi) We prohibit hunting closer than 100 yards (91 meters) to another hunter or hunting party.

(vii) You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all other equipment at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(viii) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter education certification must remain within normal sight and voice contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for migratory bird and upland game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.

(ix) We allow incidental take of beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State seasons and regulations.

(x) We allow the use of dogs when migratory game bird hunting.

(xi) We close the Waterfowl Sanctuary Hunt Unit to all entry and hunting from November 15 to February 28, except that quota gun deer hunters may hunt in that Unit when the season overlaps with these dates.

(xii) We allow waterfowl hunting from mowed and/or graveled road rights-of-way, but we prohibit all other hunting from these rights-of-way.

(xiii) We allow only hunters to use all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and only from September 1 through March 31, except that during the State Conservation Order, hunters may use ATVs for hunting applicable goose species.

(xiv) Hunters may use conventional motor vehicles, ATVs, bicycles, and e-bikes only on public use roads, levee tops, designated ATV trails (open to ATVs only), and established parking lots not closed by a locked gate, other barrier, or signage.

(xv) Hunters and anglers may use conventional motor vehicles only in the Bison, Waterfowl Sanctuary, and Core Waterfowl Area Hunt Units and only from March 1 through November 14.

(xvi) From November 15 through February 28, we close the Core Waterfowl Area Hunt Unit to all hunting, fishing, and public entry at 1 p.m. daily, except that during the State Conservation Order, you may hunt applicable goose species in this Unit until legal sunset.

(xvii) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (
e.g.,
jet skis), airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (a)(1)(i), (ii), (viii), (ix), and (xi) through (xvii) of this section apply.

(ii) Hunters may use shotguns, rifles and handguns chambered for rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery tackle.

(iii) We allow squirrel, rabbit, opossum, raccoon, and quail hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iv) We allow the use of dogs when hunting upland game.

(v) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 5 a.m. and must exit the refuge by 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow hunting of raccoon and opossum at night (from 30 minutes after legal sunset to 30 minutes before legal sunrise) on the refuge.

(vi) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of deer and turkey, and the incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (a)(1)(i), (ii), (viii), (ix), and (xi) through (xvii), (2)(v), and (2)(vi) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow archery/crossbow, modern gun, and muzzleloader deer hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iii) Turkey hunting will be conducted in the Bison, Waterfowl Sanctuary, and Mingo Creek Hunt Units according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iv) Hunters may use only shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders, handguns with barrel lengths greater than 4 inches, large-bore air rifles, non-semiautomatic centerfire firearms that fire a straight-walled rifle cartridge .30 caliber or larger, and archery/crossbow tackle for modern gun deer hunting on the Bison, Core Waterfowl Area, and Waterfowl Sanctuary Hunt Units.

(v) You may only erect one portable stand or blind 7 days prior to the refuge deer season and must remove it from the waterfowl sanctuary prior to November 15, except for stands used by quota gun deer hunters, which you must remove by the last day of the quota gun deer hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter). You must remove all stands on the remainder of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(vi) Game camera use is limited to one camera per individual.

(vii) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous location.

(viii) We prohibit the possession or use of lead shot and buckshot for deer hunting. We allow lead shot for turkey hunting.

(ix) During the quota gun deer hunt, we allow only hunters possessing a valid quota gun deer hunting permit (FWS Form 3-2439) on the refuge and only for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental take of allowable species.

(x) Hunters may only take feral hog incidental to modern gun and muzzleloader deer hunts and during specified periods for archery deer hunting according to season dates provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(xi) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.

(xii) During the quota turkey hunts, only hunters possessing a valid quota turkey hunting permit (FWS Form 3-2439) will be allowed to enter the open hunt units and only for the purposes of turkey hunting.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (a)(1)(ii), (xi), (xv) through (xvii), and (a)(3)(viii) and (xi) of this section apply.

(ii) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

(iii) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing for personal use only. All crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission license customer identification number permanently affixed.

(iv) You may enter the refuge to fish, frog, or crawfish beginning at 4 a.m. and must exit by 1 hour after legal sunset.

(v) We prohibit tournament fishing on the refuge.

(b)
Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(1) [Reserved]

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, quail, raccoon, nutria, coyote, beaver, muskrat, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and opossum on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must possess a signed refuge hunting permit.

(ii) During the quota gun deer hunt, we close the refuge to all other hunts and public entry.

(iii) We allow incidental take of nutria, beaver, muskrat, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State seasons and regulations.

(iv) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(v) We allow the use of dogs only for squirrel, rabbit, and quail hunting in the refuge area north of Timm's Point.

(vi) We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or gravel road rights-of-way.

(vii) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 4 a.m. and must exit the refuge by 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow hunting of raccoon and opossum at night (from 30 minutes after legal sunset to 30 minutes before legal sunrise) on the refuge.

(viii) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter education certification must remain within normal sight and voice contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for upland game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.

(ix) From November 1 to February 28, we close all waterfowl sanctuaries to all hunting and public entry.

(x) Hunters and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, bicycles, e-bikes, or boats overnight on the refuge.

(xi) We only allow use of all-terrain vehicles by hunters with mobility-impairments, and the refuge manager must authorize this use in writing.

(xii) Hunters and anglers may use motor vehicles, bicycles, and e-bikes only on public use roads not closed by a locked gate, other barrier, or signage.

(xiii) From November 1 through February 28, boat access is restricted to launching at Seven Mile boat ramp and using Ditch 28 only.

(xiv) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (
e.g.,
jet skis), airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.

(xv) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, turkey, and incidental take of feral hog on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(i) through (iii), and (vi) through (xv) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow archery/crossbow, modern gun, and muzzleloader deer hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iii) Modern gun deer hunters may only use shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders shooting a single projectile, non-semiautomatic centerfire firearms that fire a straight-walled rifle cartridge .30 caliber or larger, handguns with barrel lengths greater than 4 inches, large-bore air rifles, and archery/crossbow tackle.

(iv) You may only erect one portable stand or blind 7 days prior to the refuge deer season and must remove it 7 days after the closure of archery season (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(v) Game camera use is limited to one per individual.

(vi) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous location.

(vii) Hunters may only take feral hog incidental to deer hunting.

(viii) Turkey hunting is conducted according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(ix) During the quota gun deer hunts, only hunters possessing a valid quota gun deer permit (FWS Form 3-2439) may use the refuge and only for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental take of allowable species.

(x) During the quota gun turkey hunts, we close the refuge Wildlife Auto Drive Road to other hunting and public entry, and only hunters possessing a valid quota gun turkey permit (FWS Form 3-2439) may use that area of the refuge and only for the purposes of turkey hunting.

(xi) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(ii), (ix) through (xiv), and (b)(3)(ix) and (x) of this section apply.

(ii) Anglers may launch boats only in designated areas.

(iii) We allow frogging and crawfishing for personal use only. All crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission license customer identification number permanently affixed.

(iv) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

(v) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on all refuge waters from March 1 through October 31.

(vi) We allow fishing in the Sand Slough-Mud Slough area from November 1 through February 28 only with the use of nonmotorized boats and electric trolling motors; anglers may enter this area at 4 a.m. and must depart by 1 hour after legal sunset.

(vii) We prohibit climbing onto or fishing from any water control structure and associated wingwalls and fences, or the top of the Floodway Dam south of Highway 18.

(viii) We prohibit tournament fishing on the refuge.

(c)
Cache River National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, merganser, snipe, woodcock, rail, gallinule, crow, and dove on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must possess a signed refuge hunting permit.

(ii) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 4 a.m. Except when hunting applicable goose species during the State Conservation Order, waterfowl hunters must exit the refuge by 1 p.m. All other hunters, including those hunting applicable goose species during the State Conservation Order, must exit the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.

(iii) We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon), except that during the State Conservation Order, you may hunt for applicable goose species until legal sunset.

(iv) You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all other equipment at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(v) From March 1 through October 31, hunters and anglers may leave boats displaying valid registration on the refuge.

(vi) During the regular State waterfowl hunting season, we prohibit the use of boats on the refuge from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 4 a.m.

(vii) We allow the use of dogs when migratory game bird hunting.

(viii) We allow waterfowl hunting on flooded refuge roads.

(ix) During the quota gun deer hunt, we close the refuge to all other hunts and public entry, unless the refuge is closed to deer hunting at that time due

to implementation of State flood closure zone regulations.

(x) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter education certification must remain within normal sight and voice contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for migratory bird and upland game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.

(xi) We allow incidental take of beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State season and regulations.

(xii) From November 15 to February 28, we close all waterfowl sanctuaries to all hunting and public entry.

(xiii) We allow only hunters to use all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and only from September 1 through March 31, except that during the State Conservation Order, hunters may use ATVs for hunting applicable goose species.

(xiv) Hunters and anglers may not operate conventional motor vehicles, ATVs, bicycles, or e-bikes on any road or trail closed by a locked gate, other barrier, or signage.

(xv) Hunter and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, ATVs, bicycles, or e-bikes unattended overnight on the refuge.

(xvi) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (
e.g.,
jet skis), airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (v), (vi), and (ix) through (xvi) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting upland game.

(iv) We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or graveled road rights-of-way.

(v) Hunters may use only shotguns, rifles and handguns chambered for rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery tackle.

(vi) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 4 a.m. and must exit the refuge by 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow hunting of raccoon and opossum at night (from 30 minutes after legal sunset to 30 minutes before legal sunrise) on the refuge.

(vii) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of deer and turkey, and incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (v), (vi), and (ix) through (xvi), and (c)(2)(iv), (vi) and (vii) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow archery/crossbow, modern gun, and muzzleloader deer hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iii) Hunters may take only feral hog incidental to modern gun and muzzleloader deer hunts and during a specified period during archery deer hunting according to season dates provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iv) Hunters may only use shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders, handguns with barrel lengths greater than 4 inches, large-bore air rifles, non-semiautomatic centerfire firearms that fire a straight-walled rifle cartridge .30 caliber or larger, and archery/crossbow tackle for modern gun deer hunting on the Dixie, Dixie Waterfowl Sanctuary, and Plunkett Farm Waterfowl Sanctuary Hunt Units.

(v) You may only erect one portable stand or blind 7 days prior to the refuge deer season, and you must remove it from the waterfowl sanctuaries prior to November 15, and from the rest of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(vi) Game camera use is limited to one per individual.

(vii) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous location.

(viii) We prohibit the possession or use of lead shot and buckshot for deer hunting. We allow lead shot for turkey hunting.

(ix) During the quota gun deer hunt, we allow only hunters possessing a valid quota gun deer hunting permit on the refuge and only for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental take of allowable species.

(x) Turkey hunting will be conducted in designated areas according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(xi) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(v), (vi), (ix), (xii), (xiv) through (xvi), and (c)(3)(ix) of this section apply.

(ii) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

(iii) We allow frogging and crawfishing for personal use only. All crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission license customer identification number permanently affixed.

(iv) We prohibit tournament fishing on the refuge.

(f)
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge.
(1) [Reserved]

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink, fox, striped skunk, coyote, and bobcat on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must possess a signed refuge hunting permit.

(ii) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iii) We only allow use of all-terrain vehicles by hunters and anglers with mobility impairments, and the refuge manager must authorize this use in writing.

(iv) Hunters and anglers may use boats in designated areas and at times provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(v) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter education certification must remain within normal sight and voice contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for upland game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.

(vi) During modern gun and alternative firearms deer and turkey

hunts, we close the refuge to all other hunting and public entry.

(vii) We allow incidental take of beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State seasons and regulations.

(viii) Hunters and anglers may use bicycles and e-bikes only on public use roads and designated trails not closed by a locked gate, other barrier, or signage.

(ix) Squirrel and rabbit hunters may only use shotguns, rifles and handguns chambered for rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery tackle.

(x) Hunters must only enter and exit the refuge from designated roads and parking lots.

(xi) We limit raccoon and opossum hunting to nighttime hunting only.

(xii) Hunter and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, bicycles, e-bikes, or boats unattended overnight on the refuge.

(xiii) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.

(xiv) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (
e.g.,
jet skis), airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of deer, black bear, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(2)(i), (iii) through (viii), (x), and (xii) through (xiv) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow archery/crossbow hunting for white-tailed deer and turkey according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(iii) Alternative firearm and modern gun deer hunts will be conducted according to season dates and bag limits provided in the refuge public use brochure.

(iv) We allow the take of black bear and feral hog incidental to refuge deer hunts subject to applicable State seasons and regulations.

(v) The refuge will conduct youth-only quota spring gun turkey hunts and archery only public hunts according to season dates and bag limits provided in the refuge public use brochure.

(vi) You may erect one portable stand or blind and deploy one game camera 7 days before the start of the season, and you must remove it from the refuge within 7 days after the season ends (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(vii) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous location.

(viii) We prohibit drives. We define a drive as an organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause game to move in the direction of any person who is part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the game.

(ix) You must check all harvested turkey, bear, and deer at the refuge check station.

(x) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.

(xi) Big game hunters may enter the refuge 1 hour before legal sunrise and must exit by 1 hour after legal sunset.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(2)(iii), (iv), (vi), (viii), (xii), and (xiv) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing, from a boat on all waters only from March 1 through November 14, and bank fishing (no boat) along the Arkansas River year-round from legal sunrise to legal sunset.

(iii) Anglers must remove boats from the refuge at the end of each day's fishing activity (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(iv) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

(v) We allow frogging and crawfishing for personal use only. All crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission license customer identification number permanently affixed.

(vi) We prohibit access to refuge waters and land from the Arkansas River.

(vii) We limit trotlines, setline, limblines, yo-yo, and free-floating fishing devices to 20 per person; any line that extends into the water must be cotton.

(viii) Trotlines, setlines, limblines, yo-yos, and free-floating fishing devices must be clearly labelled with the angler's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission license customer identification number and cannot be left overnight or unattended.

(i)
Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge.
(1) [Reserved]

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, nutria, beaver, coyote, quail, muskrat, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and opossum on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must possess a signed refuge hunting permit.

(ii) Hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m. and must leave the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow hunting of raccoon and opossum at night on the refuge.

(iii) During the quota gun hunts, we close the refuge to all other hunts and public entry.

(iv) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(v) We allow the incidental take of nutria, beaver, muskrat, river otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge hunt with the weapons allowed for that hunt, subject to applicable State seasons and regulations.

(vi) Hunters may use only shotguns, rifles and handguns chambered for rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery tackle.

(vii) We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or gravel road rights-of-way.

(viii) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter education certification must remain within normal sight and voice contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for upland game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.

(ix) From December 1 to February 28, we close all waterfowl sanctuaries (including Wapanocca Lake) to all hunting and public entry.

(x) We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), except that ATVs may be used by mobility-impaired hunters possessing written authorization issued by the refuge manager.

(xi) Hunters and anglers may use motor vehicles, bicycles, and e-bikes only on public use roads not closed by a locked gate, other barrier, or signage.

(xii) Hunters and anglers must use the public boat ramp on Highway 77 to launch motorized boats into Wapanocca Lake.

(xiii) Hunters and anglers must operate boats at speeds of less than 5 miles per hour between the Highway 77 boat launch and the open lake.

(xiv) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (
e.g.,
jet skis), airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.

(xv) Hunter and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, bicycles, e-bikes, or boats unattended overnight on the refuge.

(xvi) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.

(xvii) The Round Pond and Pygmon Units in St. Francis County are subject to all regulations for hunting and fishing for Wapanocca NWR.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and turkey, and incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (i)(2)(i) through (iii), (v), and (vii) through (xvii) of this section apply.

(ii) During the quota gun deer hunts, we allow only hunters possessing a valid quota gun deer hunting permit on the refuge and only for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental take of allowable species.

(iii) You may only use one game camera and erect one portable stand or blind per hunter. All items are required to have owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission customer identification number in a conspicuous location. Your stand or blind can only be erected 7 days prior to the refuge deer season, and you must remove it from the waterfowl sanctuaries by December 1. You must remove all stands and blinds on the remainder of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(iv) We allow archery/crossbow, muzzleloader, and modern gun deer hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.

(v) Modern gun deer hunters may only use shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders shooting a single projectile, non-semiautomatic centerfire firearms that fire a straight-walled rifle cartridge .30 caliber or larger, handguns with barrel lengths longer than 4 inches, large-bore air rifles, and archery/crossbow tackle for modern gun deer hunting.

(vi) Hunters may only take feral hog incidental to deer hunting.

(vii) The annual refuge public use brochure provides season dates and bag limits for turkey hunting.

(viii) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (i)(2)(iii), (ix), (x) through (xv), and (xvii), and (i)(3)(ii) of this section apply.

(ii) From March 1 through November 30, we allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on all refuge waters. From December 1 through February 28, we allow bank fishing only on Woody Pond and other non-waterfowl sanctuary areas.

(iii) Anglers, including those frogging and crawfishing, may enter the refuge at 4 a.m. and must leave the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.

(iv) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

(v) Anglers may launch boats only in designated areas.

(vi) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing for personal use only. All crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission license customer identification number permanently affixed.

(vii) We prohibit tournament fishing.

5. Amend § 32.24 by:
a. Adding new paragraph (g);
b. Redesignating paragraphs (g) through (y) as paragraphs (h) through (z) respectively;
c. Revise and republish newly redesignated paragraphs (l), (p)(2)(ii), (q)(2)(ii), (q)(3)(i), (v)(2)(ii), (y)(2)(ii), and (z);
The changes read as follows:

§ 32.24
California.

(g)
Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)-(3) [Reserved]

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: access through the refuge beach above the intertidal zone is prohibited from March 1 to September 30.

(l)
Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) In the controlled waterfowl hunting area, we require a valid Refuge Recreation Pass (available electronically or in person at the refuge office) for all hunters age 17 or older.

(ii) We may require advance reservations for the first 2 days of the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the waterfowl lottery each year.

(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge at 4:30 a.m. unless otherwise posted.

(iv) Shooting hours end at 1 p.m. on all California portions of the refuge.

(v) We prohibit the setting of decoys in retrieving zones.

(vi) Pit-style hunting blinds located in the Stearns units and unit 9D are first-come, first-served. We require you to hunt within a 200-foot (61-meter) radius of the blind.

(vii) We prohibit air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats while hunting. We prohibit the use of all-terrain amphibious or utility-type vehicles in wetland units.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of pheasant and quail on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Upland game bird hunters must carry a valid Refuge Recreation Pass (available electronically or in person at the refuge office) for all hunters age 17 or older.

(ii) Hunting of pheasant and quail is only allowed during the Oregon and California designated pheasant season.

(iii) Upland gamebird hunting is permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Hunters must be out of the field by 2:30 p.m. and departing the refuge hunt area.

(3)-(4) [Reserved]

(p) * * *

(2) * * *

(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (p)(1)(iii) through (ix) of this section apply.

(q) * * *

(2) * * *

(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (q)(1)(i), (ii), (iv), and (v) of this section apply.

(3) * * *

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (q)(1)(i), (ii), and (iv) and (o)(2)(i) of this section apply.

(v) * * *

(2) * * *

(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (v)(1)(ii) of this section apply.

(y) * * *

(2) * * *

(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (y)(1)(i) through (viii) of this section apply.

(z)
Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) In the controlled waterfowl hunting area, we require a valid Refuge Recreation Pass (available electronically or in person at the refuge office) for all hunters age 17 or older.

(ii) We may require advance reservations for the first 2 days of the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the waterfowl lottery each year.

(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge at 4:30 a.m. unless otherwise posted.

(iv) Waterfowl hunting hours end at 1 p.m. on all portions of the refuge.

(v) We prohibit the setting of decoys in retrieving zones.

(vi) We prohibit air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats while hunting. We prohibit the use of all-terrain amphibious or utility-type vehicles (UTVs) in wetland units.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of pheasant and quail on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) In the controlled pheasant hunting area, we require a valid Refuge Recreation Pass (available electronically or in person at the refuge office) for all hunters age 17 or older.

(ii) Hunting of pheasant and quail is only allowed during the State designated pheasant season.

(iii) Upland gamebird hunting is permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Hunters must be out of the field by 2:30 p.m. and departing the refuge hunt area.

(3)-(4) [Reserved]

6. Amend § 32.25 by:
a. Adding new paragraph (f);
b. Redesignating paragraph (f) as paragraph (g);
The changes read as follows:

§ 32.25
Colorado.

(f)
Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)-(2) [Reserved]

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of elk on designated areas of the refuge.

(4) [Reserved]

7. Amend § 32.31 by revising and republishing paragraphs (a) through (f) to read as follows:

§ 32.31
Idaho.

(a)
Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, crow, dove, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Hunters may enter the refuge 1
1/2
hours before legal sunrise and must leave the refuge by
1/2
hours after legal sunset.

(ii) We allow boats, except air thrust boats, after September 20 within the designated refuge hunting areas, for the purposes of hunting.

(iii) You may only use portable blinds or construct temporary blinds of natural vegetation. Blinds will be available for general use on a first-come, first-served basis. You must remove portable blinds, decoys, boats, and other personal property from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(iv) You may hunt Eurasian collared-doves only during State mourning dove and crow seasons.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of pheasant, grouse, partridge, turkey, and cottontail rabbit on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section applies.

(ii) We allow turkey hunting during the fall season only.

(iii) We allow rabbit hunting only during State upland game bird seasons.

(3) [Reserved]

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge.

(b)
Camas National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, snipe, and dove on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow hunters to access the refuge 1 hour before legal shooting time.

(ii) You may only use portable blinds or construct temporary blinds of natural vegetation. Blinds will be available for general use on a first-come, first-served basis. You must remove portable blinds, decoys, and other personal property at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting.

(iv) You may take Eurasian collared-doves only during the State seasons for migratory birds and upland game birds.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of pheasant, grouse, and partridge on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(iii) of this section applies.

(ii) We allow hunters to access the refuge 1
1/2
hour before legal shooting time.

(iii) Hunters must wear a minimum of 36 square inches (232.3 square centimeters) of blaze orange, and a blaze orange head covering.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of elk on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section apply.

(ii) You must carry a signed copy of the refuge hunting regulations and hunt map (signed brochure) in the field while hunting.

(4) [Reserved]

(c)
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, snipe, and dove on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Hunters in the South Side Recreation Area may use float tubes, nonmotorized boats, or boats equipped with electric motors within 200 yards (180 meters) of the shoreline. We prohibit the use or possession of gas-powered motors.

(ii) You must remove boats, decoys, blinds, other personal property, and any materials brought onto the refuge for blind construction at the end of each day (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).

(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge 1 hour before official shooting hours (
1/2
hour before legal sunrise), and must leave the refuge by 1 hour after official shooting hours (legal sunset).

(iv) We allow the use of dogs for hunting.

(v) You may take Eurasian collared-doves and rock doves (feral pigeon) only during the State mourning dove season.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of pheasant, quail, and partridge on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: The condition set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(iv) of this section applies.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of deer on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) You must obtain a refuge-specific hunting permit (signed brochure) to hunt deer on the Lake Lowell Unit. Hunters must sign and carry the permit in the field while hunting.

(ii) Hunters may place up to two portable deer stands in the Lake Lowell Unit. Hunters must place stands/platforms by hand. Hunters may place stands/platforms on the refuge no earlier than the beginning date of the assigned hunt permit and must remove them no later than the ending date of the hunt permit. Each stand must display the hunter's hunting license number so that it is legible from the ground.

(iii) In the Lake Lowell Unit, you may only shoot deer while hunting from an elevated tree stand/platform. We prohibit ground stalking and/or still hunting from the ground. We prohibit shooting a firearm or bow while on the ground, except to kill a downed deer.

(iv) Hunters may enter the Lake Lowell Unit no earlier than 2 hours before official shooting hours (
1/2
hour before legal sunrise) and must leave the area within 2 hours after official shooting hours (
1/2
hour after legal sunset). Successful hunters may extend their departure time only as long as is necessary to retrieve dead deer.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) From October 1 through April 14, we allow ice fishing on the Lake Lowell Unit, unless otherwise posted by the Bureau of Reclamation.

(ii) We allow fishing from nonmotorized boats in designated areas of the Lake Lowell Unit from October 1 through April 14, from
1/2
hour before legal sunrise to
1/2
hour after legal sunset.

(iii) From February 1 through June 30, we prohibit fishing from all islands in the Snake River Islands Unit.

(d)
Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, crow, dove, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow hunting August through February and hunters may enter the refuge
1/2
hours before legal sunrise and must leave the refuge by
1/2
hours after legal sunset.

(ii) You must remove portable blinds, decoys, boats, and other personal property from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

(iii) We allow hunters and dogs to retrieve game only in designated hunting areas.

(iv) We prohibit dog training except during legal hunting seasons.

(v) You may take Eurasian collared-doves only during the State mourning dove and crow seasons.

(2)
Upland Game Hunting.
We allow hunting of bobcat, coyote, fox, grouse, partridge, rabbit and hare, and squirrel on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) and (d)(1)(iv) of this section apply.

(ii) We allow the use of dogs for hunting upland game birds in the Lake Unit only. We prohibit dogs for hunting other upland game.

(iii) You may take fox and coyote only during the State bobcat season.

(3)
Big Game Hunting.
We allow hunting of bear, deer, elk, moose, and mountain lion on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) and (d)(1)(iv) apply.

(ii) We prohibit dogs for big game hunting.

(iii) You may take mountain lion only during open hunts for migratory birds, upland game, bear, deer, elk, or moose.

(iv) We allow bear hunting during the fall season only.

(4)
Sport Fishing.
We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge from August through February.

(e)
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow hunting only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting.

(iii) We prohibit the discharge of firearms in posted retrieval zones and areas closed to hunting.

(iv) Hunters may access the waterfowl hunt area no earlier than 3 a.m. and must leave no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of forest grouse and wild turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) You may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells (see § 32.2(k)) while in the field.

(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting forest grouse and for turkey during the fall hunt.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of deer, elk, black bear, moose, and mountain lion on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow deer hunting at the designated accessible blind for hunters with disabilities subject to the following conditions:

(A) You must obtain a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G) from the refuge manager to use the accessible blind.

(B) We only allow deer hunting at the accessible blind using the following weapons: Muzzleloader, archery equipment, crossbow, shotgun, or handgun. For shotguns, you may only use slugs. For handguns, you may only use straight-walled cartridges not originally established for rifles.

(ii) You may possess only approved nontoxic ammunition for hunting (see § 32.2(k)).

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge.

(f)
Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, snipe, dove, and crow on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Hunters may enter the refuge 1
1/2
hours before legal sunrise and must leave the refuge by 1
1/2
hours after legal sunset.

(ii) We allow only hunters and dogs to retrieve game in designated hunting areas.

(iii) You may only use portable blinds or construct temporary blinds of dead natural vegetation. Blinds will be available for general use on a first-come, first-served basis. You must remove portable blinds at the end of each day's hunt (see § 27.93 of this chapter). We prohibit use of rock piles above the high-water mark for blind construction.

(iv) On West Hunting Area (Lake Walcott), we allow hunting on the uplands and over water within 100 yards (90 meters) of the shoreline. We allow use of boats only for retrieval of game.

(v) On East Hunting Area (Tule Island), we allow boats during the waterfowl hunting season.

(vi) You may only take Eurasian collared-doves during the State mourning dove and waterfowl seasons.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of pheasant, grouse, partridge (chukar and gray partridge), quail, cottontail rabbit, and bobcat on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (f)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section applies.

(ii) You may take rabbits only during the State mourning dove and waterfowl seasons.

(iii) Unit 12 is closed to hunting from April 1st through August 15th.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of deer and elk on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: The condition set forth at paragraph (f)(1)(i) applies.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge.

8. Amend § 32.32 by:
a. Revising and republishing paragraph (a);
b. Adding new paragraph (b);
c. Redesignating paragraphs (b) through (l) as paragraphs (c) through (m), respectively; and
d. Revising and republishing newly redesignated paragraphs (c) through (h) and paragraphs (j) through (l);
The changes read as follows:

§ 32.32
Illinois.

(a)
Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the State on

designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:

(i) Hunters must remove all personal property, including but not limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, trail cameras, stands, and platforms, at the end of each day's hunt (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).

(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.

(iii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal sunrise until 1 hour after legal sunset.

(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of upland game authorized by the State except for feral hog, house sparrow, and European starling during the State waterfowl season on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (a)(1)(i) through (iv) of this section apply.

(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.

(3) [Reserved]

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge from legal sunrise to legal sunset subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow fishing on Lake Chautauqua from February 1 through October 15. We prohibit fishing in the waterfowl hunting area during the waterfowl hunting season.

(ii) We allow bank fishing year-round between the boat ramp and the fishing trail in the North Pool and from Goofy Ridge Public Access to the west gate of the North Pool water control structure.

(b)
Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(i) through (iii) of § 32.44(b) apply.

(ii) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of upland game species authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(i) through (iii) of § 32.44(b) and paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section apply.

(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.

(iii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for designated areas.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of turkey and white-tailed deer on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) You must register at the hunter sign-in/out station and record the sex and age of deer harvested on the Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2542).

(ii) We prohibit shooting at deer that are on any portion of the main perimeter levee.

(iii) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use (see § 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural Resources customer identification number.

(iv) For hunting, you must use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells for hunting turkey (see § 32.2(k)).

(v) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer.

(vi) The conditions set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(i) through (iii) of § 32.44(b) and paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section apply.

(c)
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of migratory game bird species authorized by the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We require a signed hunt brochure. You must carry this signed permit when hunting on the refuge.

(ii) We prohibit hunting within 50 yards (45 meters (m)) of all designated public use facilities, including, but not limited to, parking areas, picnic areas, campgrounds, marinas, boat ramps, public roads, and established hiking trails listed in the refuge trails brochure.

(iii) Hunters must remove all personal property, including but not limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, stands, platforms, trail cameras, and other personal equipment, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).

(iv) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.

(v) Waterfowl hunting blinds must be a minimum of 200 yards (180 m) apart. Hunters must anchor boat blinds on the shore or anchor them a minimum of 200 yards (180 m) away from any shoreline.

(vi) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of upland game species authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(i) through (vi) of this section apply.

(ii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for designated areas.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(i), (ii) and (vi) and (c)(2)(ii) of this section apply.

(ii) You may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells while in the field for hunting turkey (see § 32.2(k)).

(iii) We require all deer and turkey hunters using the restricted use area to check-in at the refuge visitor center prior to hunting.

(iv) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer.

(v) We only allow archery equipment when hunting deer in the following areas:

(A) In the area west of Division Street and east of Blue Heron Marina;

(B) On all refuge lands north of Illinois State Route 13; and

(C) In the area north of the Crab Orchard Lake emergency spillway and west of Crab Orchard Lake.

(vi) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use (see § 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural Resources customer identification number.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) On Crab Orchard Lake west of Wolf Creek Road:

(A) Anglers may fish from boats all year.

(B) Anglers must remove all trotlines/jugs from legal sunrise until legal sunset from the Friday immediately prior to Memorial Day through Labor Day.

(ii) On Crab Orchard Lake east of Wolf Creek Road:

(A) Anglers may fish from boats March 1 through October 15.

(B) Anglers may fish all year at the Wolf Creek and Route 148 causeways.

(iii) On A-41 and Bluegill Ponds:

(A) Anglers may fish only from legal sunrise to legal sunset from March 1 through October 15.

(B) We prohibit anglers from using gas-powered boats.

(iv) On Managers, Honkers, and Visitors Ponds:

(A) Anglers may fish all year from legal sunrise to legal sunset.

(B) We prohibit anglers from using gas-powered boats.

(v) Trotlines/jugs:

(A) We prohibit the use of trotlines/jugs on all refuge waters outside of Crab Orchard Lake.

(B) We prohibit the use of trotlines/jugs with any flotation device that has previously contained any petroleum-based material or toxic substances.

(C) Anglers must attach a buoyed device that is visible on the water's surface to all trotlines.

(vi) Anglers may use all legal noncommercial fishing methods, except they may not use any underwater breathing apparatus.

(vii) Organizers of all fishing events must possess a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G or FWS Form 3-1383-C).

(viii) We prohibit anglers from fishing within 250 yards (228 m) of an occupied waterfowl hunting blind.

(ix) Specific creel and size limits apply on various refuge waters as listed in the Crab Orchard fishing brochure and the annual Illinois fishing digest.

(d)
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) You must remove all personal property, including but not limited to boats, decoys, trail cameras, blinds, blind materials, stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).

(ii) We allow the use of dogs while hunting, provided the dog is under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.

(iii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal sunrise until 1 hour after legal sunset.

(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of upland game species authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) through (iv) of this section apply.

(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) of this section applies.

(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer.

(iii) You may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells while in the field for hunting wild turkey (see § 32.2(k)).

(iv) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use (see § 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural Resources customer identification number.

(v) We allow harvest of feral hog during while tail deer hunting only.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Anglers must remove all boats and fishing equipment (see § 27.93 of this chapter) brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's fishing activity.

(ii) We prohibit the use of trotlines, jugs, yo-yos, nets, or any commercial fishing equipment except in areas where State regulations authorize commercial tackle.

(iii) We prohibit the use of more than two poles per angler and more than two hooks or lures per pole.

(e)
Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge.
(1)
Migratory game bird hunting.
We allow hunting of migratory game birds on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) Hunters must remove personal property, including but not limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, trail cameras, stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).

(ii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal shooting time (as governed by State regulations for the species in question) until 1 hour after legal sunset.

(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.

(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.

(2)
Upland game hunting.
We allow hunting of upland game species authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i) through (iv) of this section apply.

(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.

(iii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for designated areas.

(3)
Big game hunting.
We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i), (ii) and (iv) and (e)(2)(iii) of this section apply.

(ii) For hunting, you may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see § 32.2(k)).

(iii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer.

(4)
Sport fishing.
We allow sport fishing throughout the year on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.

(ii) We prohibit fishing in the waterfowl hunting area during the waterfowl hunting season.

(f)
Great River National Wildlife Refuge.
(1) Migratory game bird hunting.

We allow hunting of migratory game bird species authorized by the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) On the Long Island Division, we allow hunting only from blinds constructed on sites posted by the State.

(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.

(iii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour befo

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A2026-10465. Public record. Not legal advice.