Hunting is an important wildlife management tool that we recognize as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciation of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitat needs.
Deer hunting is allowed on the refuge in accordance with regulations and bag limits established by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Whether deer hunters are looking for an animal to fill the freezer or a large buck, Long Lake NWR offers a long season and plenty of opportunities to fill a tag. The 23,000-acre refuge offers bowhunting, muzzleloader, modern firearms and youth seasons. The bowhunting season is particularly long, running from late August through early January. Hunters have an excellent chance of taking a deer. Hunters will find grassland areas with very few patches of woodlands, so they should expect spot-and-stalk type hunting. Access is by foot, so hunters should be prepared for long drags to get deer to vehicles. Special refuge regulations also apply regarding the 3,000 acre closed area.
Upland bird hunting is allowed on the refuge starting the day following the close of the North Dakota firearm deer hunting season. Hunting is allowed through the end of the North Dakota upland bird season. Legal species include ring-necked pheasant, sharp-tailed grouse and Hungarian partridge. Hunters are not allowed to hunt or retrieve game within the 3,000 acre closed area and must use approved non-toxic shot.
Hunting of all migratory birds on Long Lake Refuge is prohibited.
