Honker Cove Waterfowl Refuge

Honker Cove Wildlife Refuge is located on the Little Platte arm of Smithville Lake. The southern boundary is County highway "W" and roads leading to public accesses 2 and 16 define the northern boundary. The refuge boundaries are shown on the lake map along with hunting areas on the lake. Entrance to the area is available at public access points 1, 2 and 16. Foot access is also available along any of the open government boundary lines and "W" Boat Ramp.

Once known as the Trimble Wildlife Area, a large body of water was already established for waterfowl and wildlife in the area. It has been home to many species of duck, geese, shorebirds and eagles for many years. In the mid 1970’s the area was turned over to the Corps of Engineers by the Missouri Department of Conservation as it would now become part of the nearly completed Smithville Lake Project.

The refuge is a total of 2,200 acres of land and water. It is closed seasonally from October 15^th to January 31^st in accordance with waterfowl regulations. Buoys are set along the southern water boundary to inform boaters of the closed status and signs are posted along the other boundaries to notify hunters of the closed status. During the rest of the year the refuge is open to hunting and boating activities. Sportsman should familiarize themselves with seasons, limits and other regulations.

For a closer look at the Smithville Lake map; please return to the home page and click on Lake Map under Smithville Lake Facts. For a hard copy of a Smithville Lake map please call, 816-532-0174 or e-mail our office at, Smithville@usace.army.mil and we would be happy to mail you a brochure.