Deer hunting on Agassiz refuge is a long-standing tradition. In 2009 Agassiz expanded its hunting opportunities to include muzzleloader and archery deer hunting, grouse hunting, and special youth deer and waterfowl hunts.Some seasons are in accordance with state regulations; others have delayed openers. The youth waterfowl hunt
is restricted to a limited area; contact refuge manager for more details.
Firearms
Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuge System lands must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42 and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32.)
Vehicles
Vehicles must remain on designated roads. Following the deer firearms season, vehicle access changes – see map for details. Portions of refuge roads may be closed at various times due to prescribed burning, wildfire, or weather-related emergencies. Snow is not removed from roads, travel with caution.
Boats Only non-motorized boats may be used.
Accessibility Information
Equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from programs and activities of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is available to all individuals regardless of physical or mental ability. For more information please contact the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Equal Opportunity, https://www.doi.gov/pmb/eeo/public-civil-rights
Agassiz has two permanent, accessible hunting stands available for use. Call or stop in at refuge headquarters for more details and reservation information.
Hunting Regulations
Hunting regulations are designed to provide safe recreational opportunities through wise use of renewable wildlife resources. Hunting is permitted in accordance with Federal regulations governing public use on National Wildlife Refuges as set forth in Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Hunting and fishing will be in accordance with applicable State of Minnesota regulations subject to the conditions stated below. Brochures may be obtained by mail, at the refuge headquarters, or informational kiosks located at various locations on the refuge.
The refuge is divided into areas which are designated as open or closed to hunting as shown on the map. Areas closed to hunting are posted with “No Hunting Zone” or “Closed Area” signs.
We allow the public onto the refuge the day prior to the season for scouting purposes for youth
waterfowl, youth deer and the deer firearms hunt.
Access
The Refuge is closed from 7:00pm to 5:30am.
Use of non-motorized bicycles, boats, and wheeled carts is allowed EXCEPT in the designated Wilderness Area.
Tree Stands No permanent stands permitted. Also, the use of nails, wire, screws, or bolts to attach a stand to a tree, or hunting from a tree into which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter or hunting equipment, is prohibited. Portable or temporary hunting blinds or stands can only be set up the day of the hunt, and must be removed at the end of each day.
ACTIVITY, SEASON DATES and REGULATION
- Archery Deer - Opens the first day of the deer firearm season and closes in accordance to the state season - State, Federal and refuge regulations apply and as posted
- Deer Firearm, Muzzleloader and Youth Deer - Follow state seasons - State, Federal and refuge regulations apply and as posted
- Ruffed and Sharp-tailed Grouse - Open the first day of the deer firearms season and close in accordance with the state seasons - Hunters may only possess approved non-toxic shot. Lead shot may not be used or carried while hunting on the refuge. Dogs must be under the control of the owner at all times.
- Youth Waterfowl Hunt - Follows state youth season - In accordance with all applicable state, federal and refuge regulations, and as posted. Restricted to a limited area, contact refuge manager for more details. Only non-motorized boats may be used.
*For more specific rules and policy, go to the Rules and Policy link under the Activities section on this website.
To Report Violations
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service TIPs: 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477)
• Turn In a Poacher (TIP) Line: 1-800-POACHER
