Since the 19th century, hunters concerned about the future of wildlife have made countless contributions to conserving the nation's wildlife resources. Waterfowl hunters have helped buy land for the National Wildlife Refuge System for decades through their purchase of 
Duck Stamps. Since 1934, more than half a billion dollars collected from Duck Stamp sales has been deposited in the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund and used to purchase wetland habitat.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has long recognized wildlife hunting as a legitimate and traditional recreational activity. In some locations it is also an effective wildlife population management tool. Port Louisa NWR offers opportunities for deer, migratory bird, and upland game hunting.
Waterfowl lifting off of Duck Slough
Deer Hunting
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Portable stands may be used where hunting is allowed, but they may not be left on the Refuge overnight. No nails, screws, or other hardware may be used to climb or secure blinds to the trees.
Wilkinson Island Division - White-tailed deer hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations.
Harlow Island Division - Archery hunting of white-tailed deer is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations.
Meissner Island Division - Archery hunting of white-tailed deer is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations.
Migratory Bird Hunting
Wilkinson Island - Migratory bird hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations. Only portable blinds are permitted. Hunters must remove all blind structures, decoys and other equipment at the conclusion of each day's hunt.
Harlow Island and Meissner Island Divisions - Closed to migratory bird hunting.
Upland Game Hunting
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Includes small game, furbearers, turkey and non-migratory game birds.
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The refuge is closed to all nighttime hunting of furbearers.
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Hunters must possess and use only non-toxic shot while hunting all permitted birds, except wild turkeys.
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Lead shot may be used for hunting wild turkey.
Harlow Island and Wilkinson Island Divisions - Upland game hunting is allowed in accordance with state seasons and regulations.
Meissner Island Division - Closed to upland game hunting.
For information on state hunting license and state regulations in Missouri, please contact the Missouri Department of Conservation.
For information on state hunting licenses and state regulations in Illinois, please contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
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