Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge currently allows limited quota hunting for white-tail deer, Mule Deer, and incidental feral hogs by permit only. The refuge has developed a reputation for hosting high quality public hunts for all three species. Permits are issues by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) after a random draw. The hunts are generally scheduled as follows (dates and open areas will vary each year; successful draw applicants must consult refuge and state regulations before hunting):

• White-tail Deer Hunts (Youth Rifle): three weekends in November - January
• Mule Deer Hunts (Youth Rifle): three weekends in November - January
• Feral Hog Hunts incidental take (Youth Rifle): three weekends in November - January

Interested hunters may apply for a limited quota permit from TPWD

The refuge also offers public hunting for dove, Quail, and Pheasent in specified areas and specified portions of open seasons. These hunts are available to the public and require a drawn permit from TPWD. Dates and open areas for upland game hunting will vary each year; successful draw applicants must consult refuge and state regulations before hunting:

• Quail/Pheasant (see regulations below):  Dec 20 - Jan 5
• Dove (see regulations below):  Dec 20- Jan 5

Hunting on Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge is through Texas Parks and Wildlife Department limited draw only. You will need to consult the refuge-specific hunting rules (see Laws, Rules, and Regulations below) as well as Texas Hunting Regulations.