Bayous weave through seemingly endless expanses of cordgrass on 55,000-acre McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge, which protects the largest freshwater marsh on the Texas coast. The plentiful food and cover of the refuge draw more than 100,000 ducks each fall, making waterfowl hunting opportunities plentiful. Much of the refuge is open to free public hunting, while some areas have a fee. Check with refuge headquarters for current regulations and hunt zones. Much of the water is shallow and navigable only by canoe or by wading, but there are some areas where motorized boats are permitted. There is also a section reserved for hunters with disabilities. The marshy habitat requires some caution, as alligators, venomous snakes and biting insects are all common. Hunters who learn the area will find excellent hunting for teal, shoveler, gadwall, scaup and mottled duck.
Notice: The daily fee has increased from $10 to $12 for the Spaced Blind and the Star Lake/Clam Lake hunt units.
Notice: McFaddin Beach will be closed between Perkin's Levee and the Chambers/Galveston County Line through teal season.
