2008 Federal Duck Stamp Contest Phone: 218-768-2402 |
Archery deer, small game, woodcock, and snipe hunting are permitted in accordance with state seasons and dates in the units shown on the map and designated as "open to public hunting."
The Wildlife Drive and hiking trails are closed to hunting.
Click on the hunting map link to view the closed and open areas.
Access
Vehicle travel is limited to designated roads and parking areas.
Snowmobiles, ATVs and other off-road vehicles are not permitted on the Refuge.
Camping
Overnight camping and open fires are prohibited.
Littering
Littering is prohibited. Pack your trash (including shotgun shell casings) out with you so that the area will remain clean, natural and enjoyable.
Non-toxic Shot
Non-toxic shot is required in all shotguns when hunting on the Refuge. Possession of lead shot is prohibited while in the field.
Other Regulations
The refuge is CLOSED to duck, goose and other migratory bird hunting.
When in doubt as to any regulation contact a Refuge Officer or the Refuge Headquarters.
Part of the Sandstone Unit, near Sandstone, MN, is open to small game and archery deer hunting. Consult Refuge Headquarters for current regulations.
The State managed Kimberly Marsh Wildlife Management Area located to the north of the Refuge is open to public hunting. Contact the local Area Wildlife Manager (Aitkin) for information at (218) 927-6915.
Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a state designated "Special Permit" area for either sex deer permits.
Hunters may apply to the MN Department of Natural Resources for a Special Area Permit for area 901 according to regulations and procedures.
In addition, hunters may apply to the Refuge for a limited number of "buck only" permits.
Details on the firearms hunt, dates and application procedures are outlined in the annual Minnesota Hunting and Trapping Regulations for the "either sex" permit.
Contact the Refuge Headquarters for application procedures for the "buck only" permit.
Deer Registration
Deer taken from the Refuge may be registered at any authorized Registration Station.
Please notify the Refuge of any deer taken from the Refuge to aid in our management program.
Hunting Stands
Only portable stands not requiring the use of nails, screws, bolts or other metal objects to be driven into the tree to support a hunter may be used, and they must not be left overnight.
Alcohol
The use or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting on National Wildlife Refuges is strictly prohibited. Have a safe hunt!
Target Shooting
Prohibited
A Refuge Officer can be contacted by, or violations reported to, Aitkin County Sheriff at 1-888-9000-2138 or 911. Violations may also be reported by contacting the TIP (Turn In Poachers) hot line at 1-800-652-9093.