With 127 waterfowl production areas (WPAs) that provide 27,000 acres of public hunting, J. Clark Salyer WMD offers a diversity of opportunities in a five-county area of north-central North Dakota. Wetlands range in size from five to several hundred acres, and, while all hunting is allowed per state regulations, waterfowl hunting is the most popular. A few years ago, this meant snow goose hunting, with thousand-bird decoy spreads set out to lure in huge flocks of migrating birds. The snow goose migration paths have changed, though, so fewer birds are passing through these wetlands. Many hunters have switched to less labor-intensive Canada goose hunting. There are also excellent numbers of puddle ducks in the fall. Blue-winged teal account for 30 percent of the ducks on the WPAs, but hunters will also see plenty of mallard, gadwall, and wigeon.
Hunting Regulations
Unless otherwise noted, hunting is allowed in accordance with State regulations. Learn more about hunting regulations from the North Dakota Game & Fish Department.
| 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). |
| Ammunition | When hunting with a shotgun, hunters must use and possess only approved non-toxic shot. Lead bullets in rifles and muzzleloaders are allowed in accordance with State regulations. |
| Tree Stands | Portable tree stands and free-standing elevated platforms may be used in accordance with State regulations. The use of nails, wire, screws, or bolts to attach a stand or steps to a tree is prohibited. |
| Equipment Removal | With the exception of tree stands, all personal property including, but not limited to boats, decoys, trail cameras, portable blinds, and any materials brought into the area for blind construction, must be removed at the end of each day. Blinds constructed of dead and down materials gathered on-site may be left throughout the hunting season. |
| Dogs | The use of dogs is encouraged for hunting. Dogs are allowed for other activities only if the dog is confined to a vehicle, boat, fish house, or is on a leash controlled by the handler. Dog training is prohibited. |
| Baiting | The distribution of bait and hunting over bait is prohibited. |
| Alcohol | Using or possessing alcoholic beverages while hunting is prohibited. |