Black Coulee NWR was created to protect habitat around Black Coulee Reservoir, and like many refuges, the fall waterfowl hunting is highly dependent on the amount of water in the reservoir. However, even in low-water years there are still good hunting opportunities on the refuge. Hunters will find diving ducks like canvasback and redhead, and puddle ducks like mallard and wigeon. Hunters either walk in or use non-motorized boats to access their hunting spots. Refuge managers consider the refuge to be underused by hunters, and pressure is very light for all types of hunting. For hunters seeking solitude, this refuge is perfect. A portion of the land within the refuge boundary is private land; persons wishing to hunt the private land must gain permission from the landowner.