Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

Welcome!  

Here you can find all the information you need about HUNTING:  
Updates, Links to Special Hunter Groups/Events, Admissions, Rules and Regulations (including bag limits), FAQs (including Pheasant/Turkey), Information for Dog Owners, Sacramento NWR Complex Hunt Plan, and Other Resources.

This page is for the hunting program at Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs. For information about hunting the Sacramento River NWR, click on Sacramento River NWR Hunting .

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Hunting the Waterfowl Refuges of Sacramento NWR Complex

The Sacramento Valley is historically known for its premier waterfowl hunting. Since 1950, portions of the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex have been open to the public for hunting.   

Hunting is a wildlife management tool that we recognize as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. As practiced on refuges, hunting does not pose a threat to wildlife populations, and in some instances is can be beneficial to sound wildlife management. Hunting programs can promote understanding and appreciation of natural resources and their management on lands and waters in the Refuge System.

Portions of the following refuges are open to waterfowl and upland game bird hunting (geese, ducks, coots, moorhens, snipe, pheasant, and turkey) in accordance with all applicable state and federal regulations and subject to special regulations:

•  Sacramento NWR
•  Delevan NWR
•  Colusa NWR
•  Sutter NWR

During the waterfowl hunting season, these refuges are generally open to hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.  Hunting on these refuges is regulated through the Hunter Check Stations, and there are specific permits, fees, and regulations.

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Updates 2023-24 (2024-25 TBD)

Updates will be posted here, as information becomes available to staff. 

• ALERTS:  no alerts at this time
• Current Waterfowl Hunting Season (2024-25 TBD) (Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs) = Previously October 21, 2023 - January 31, 2024
• Check Station Holiday Operations:  TBD
• Sac NWR Complex - Hunting Changes/Highlights 2023-24 (2024-25 TBD):  
  • Sacramento NWR Mobility-impaired Assigned Pond 27D will NOT have the added floating blind option for 2023-24, but will still have the stationary blind
  • Sacramento River NWR - Sul Norte/Codora Units will continue to be open to the public through the current parking lot during the ongoing Butte City Bridge/CalTrans project.  Road/trail access may temporarily be re-routed.
  • Sacramento River NWR - La Barranca/Mooney Units are open following the 2021 Dairy Fire, but please use caution as tree health may change and create unknown hazards.
• Information only available at the check stations (not available online or via phone):
  • Flood-up maps
  • Weekly quotas
  • Weekly blind/pond hunt results
• weekly refuge hunt results are ONLY posted online on California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife's Waterfowl Hunt Results webpage

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Links for: 

Junior/Youth, Mobility-Impaired, Special Hunts, Maps/Directions, Sacramento River

Junior and Youth HuntING   Mobility Impaired HuntING  special huntS  HunT area maps and Directions  Sacramento River NWR Hunting  

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Hunt Area Admission:

*This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs*. Click on Sacramento River NWR for information about hunting on the Sacramento River. 

Hunting is permitted on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday during waterfowl season. Entry to the hunt areas is through the hunter check stations. Permits may be obtained by reservation, lottery, or first-come-first-serve. 

Before you Arrive:

Check Stations DO NOT SELL any license items, validations, or passes!

Non-hunters do not need to have any licenses, validations or passes if they are accompanying a hunting individual (even if the hunting individual is a junior hunter, as long as the non-hunter is NOT hunting).

Hunters must purchase any of the following necessary licenses, validations and passes prior to arrival at the Check Station:

• California Hunting License
• Prepaid Type A Pass (not required for junior hunters) - Type A One-day, Two-day or Season Pass (this is like an entry day-pass)
• Harvest Information Program (HIP) Validation (if hunting ducks, geese, coots or snipe)
• California Duck Validation Stamp (not required for junior hunters; not required if only hunting pheasants)
• Federal Duck Stamp (required for all hunters age 16 or older; not required if only hunting pheasants)
• Upland Game Bird Validation (required if hunting pheasants/turkey; not required for junior hunters)

Licenses, validations and passes may be purchased from:

1. CDFW license sales office
2. Find a license agent (CDFW Website)
3. Purchase a hunting license online (CDFW Website)

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Admission Methods:

*This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs*. Click on Sacramento River NWR for information about hunting on the Sacramento River. 

There are 3 methods of admission to the hunt areas of Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs:

1. RESERVATION
   • You must apply for a reservation at least 17 days in advance of desired hunt day
   • You may apply for a reservation through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or wherever hunting licenses are sold
   • The daily quota of hunters is filled first by those holding advance reservations
   • See past years' waterfowl reservation drawing statistics (link to CDFW page)
2. LOTTERY
   • You may enter a lottery drawing at the check station between 6:00-8:00 pm the night before you want to hunt;  Up to 4 people may put their names on lottery entry
   • Results will be posted at the check station after 8:00 pm; need not be present for drawing
   • Lottery number holders will be admitted after reservation holders the morning of the hunt; Numbers will be purged at 8:00 am
3. FIRST-COME FIRST-SERVED (aka "Sweat-Line")
   • You may wait in the "sweat-line" and will be allowed admission that morning after all reservations and lottery holders are admitted 

View Details: MOBILITY-IMPAIRED HUNTER ADMISSIONS

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Daily Admission Process:

*This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs*. Click on Sacramento River NWR for information about hunting on the Sacramento River. 

A. Reservation Procedures:

• Reservation holders are encouraged to pre-register to speed up the processing.
• Mobility Impaired (MI) reservation hunters will be processed before other reservation hunters in numerical sequence when the check station opens.
• Processing begins 2½ hours before waterfowl shoot time on Sacramento and Delevan, and 2 hours before waterfowl shoot time on Colusa and Sutter NWRs.
• If a reservation card holder is not present when card number is called, he/she will be allowed to enter UPON ARRIVAL, or until the end of the reservation period.
• Reservations must be presented at the check station no later than 1½ hours before waterfowl shoot time on Sacramento and Delevan and 1 hour before waterfowl shoot time on Colusa and Sutter. Once the reservation period has expired, the reservation will be invalid – NO EXCEPTIONS!
• A MI reservation holder may choose any available MI blind site or enter free-roam. If both options are refused, the MI hunter may be placed on a "MI waiting list" in order to remain eligible to hunt.
• A non MI reservation holder may choose any available regular (non-MI) blind site or enter free roam. If both options are refused, the hunter may be placed on a "waiting list" in order to remain eligible to hunt.
• MI and non MI reservation holders who wish to be put on a waiting list will be added to the list in numerical order (reservation card number) and will have priority over lottery and first-come, first-served list.
• A reservation holder selecting a hunting site, assigned pond, or free-roam may take up to three additional people of his/her choice, including no more than two juniors or nonhunters, for a total of four people. Once formed, the party cannot add or substitute other individuals. The party may not split between blinds and free-roam.
• If the reservation holder chooses a blind site or assigned pond and he has a guest who has not arrived yet, he/she may request to have this person join him/her at his assigned blind site or assigned pond. The name must be given at the time of processing. This does not affect the quota.
• If the reservation holder chooses free roam, all hunters in his/her group must be present at the time of processing. Once the group (free-roam) has been processed and the next reservation number is called, additional hunters will not be added to the card. Adding additional hunters will affect free-roam quota. If the hunter truly has a partner who will be arriving late, he will be advised to choose a blind site. Hunters may not split between blinds and free-roam.

B. Lottery Draw Procedures:

• Hunters obtain a lottery card at the check station and fill out both halves.

1. Only one hunter’s name may appear on the front of a card.
2. Hunting license number and vehicle license number must be written on the front.
3. MI hunters wishing to use the MI blind sites or ponds must mark the MI box.
4. A maximum of three additional names may be placed on the back of the card. This includes adult hunters, junior hunters (no more than two juniors per adult) and non-hunters.
5. Hunter’s names and hunting license numbers are required on the back of the card. Hunters on the back of the card do not have to be present during the lottery. 
6. Hunters who want to sign up other hunters on his/her card but do not have their license number at the time may add license numbers any time before the draw.
7. Any names recorded without hunting license numbers at time of the draw will not be eligible to hunt.
    

• A hunter’s name may be placed on the front or back of only one lottery card for each shoot day per refuge. Hunters may only apply to one refuge's lottery per day.
• A card number will be assigned to each card in top right corner. It will take the place of individuals’ name for the purpose of assigning lottery numbers.
• The right half of the lottery card will be filed at the check station. The hunter will keep the left half.
• Hunters may leave the area once the lottery card is filled out and turned in. They do not have to be present during the draw
• On Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., the total number of cards that have been issued are entered into a computer program. The computer will randomly select the order of each lottery card number.

1. The card numbers (plastic tokens) are placed on a large numbered board in the check station.
2. The position of each card number (plastic token) determines the lottery number.
3. The spaces between each card number are determined by the additional number of hunters that have been entered on the cards.
4. Lottery numbers determine the order that the hunters will be called the next morning. Only one lottery number will be issued per party. All names on a card must enter as a party. Once a party is formed, the party must hunt together. No splitting between blinds and free-roam.
5. It is the hunter’s responsibility to check the board to determine what their lottery number is before lottery numbers are called.
6. Hunters should write their assigned LOTTERY NUMBER (drawing results) to the left of the CARD NUMBER on their portion of the lottery card.
7. Hunters will be called by their lottery number.
    

• If a lottery cardholder does not show on the morning of the hunt, the other hunters on the back of the card are eligible to hunt.
• At Sacramento and Delevan, lottery numbers will be called 1 ½ hours before shoot time. At Colusa and Sutter, lottery numbers will be called 1 hour before shoot time. Hunters must be present when their number is called and will be eliminated from the list if they are not present.
• A lottery purge will occur at 8:00 a.m. Names of hunters that are not present will be removed from the list.

C. First-Come, First-Served:

• Hunters arriving after the 8:00 p.m. (lottery draw) will be issued a first-come, first-served number which will begin after the last number on the lottery list.
• Unlike the lottery, each hunter must be physically present to sign up.

D. Filling Vacancies:

• Vacancies occurring from no-show reservation hunters and from hunters leaving the area are filled in accordance with current CDFW procedures. If you do not get drawn for a reservation, you may enter a lottery the evening before the hunt. Non-reservation hunters may enter the lottery drawing for all of the following: Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter Refuges, on any hunt date. After all reservation and lottery number holders have been processed, hunters may enter on a first-come, first-served system.

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Check Stations: 

Hours: the check station hours at Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter during waterfowl season are:

•    6:00 pm Tuesday until 1.5 hours after shoot time ends Wednesday
•    6:00 pm Friday until 1.5 hours after shoot time ends Sunday  

Overnight parking: is allowed in the check station parking lots. You must stay inside your vehicle/RV - trailers are allowed, but tents are not allowed. No open flames are permitted, but you can have a portable gas stove.

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Admissions Summary: 

*This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs*. Click on Sacramento River NWR for information about hunting on the Sacramento River. 

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Hunting Rules and Regulations:

*This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs*. Click on Sacramento River NWR for information about hunting on the Sacramento River. 

Image Details

• Licenses - All adults hunters must possess a valid California State hunting license, HIP Validation, signed Federal Duck Stamp, California Duck Validation Stamp, and Upland Game Bird Validation (if hunting pheasant or turkey). See "Licenses/Validations/Passes" above.  See Junior Hunting page for Junior and Youth hunter requirements.
• Pass required - All adult hunters must purchase a Type A Pass (one-day, two-day, or season) prior to their arrival at the Check Station. Junior hunters and non-hunters do not need to purchase a Type A Pass.
• Check Station - All hunters must obtain a permit at the check station before entering the hunting area.
  • Check Station Hours: the check station hours at Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter during waterfowl season are:
    •    6:00 pm Tuesday until 1.5 hours after shoot time ends Wednesday
    •    6:00 pm Friday until 1.5 hours after shoot time ends Sunday  
  • Overnight parking: is allowed in the check station parking lots. You must stay inside your vehicle/RV - trailers are allowed, but tents are not allowed.
  • No open flames are permitted, but you can have a portable gas stove.
• Ammunition - Approved nontoxic shot is required on all refuges. No shot shell larger than 12 gauge and no shot size larger than T is permitted. Hunters may possess not more than 25 federally approved nontoxic shotgun shells after leaving the parking area. Weapons must be unloaded (no ammunition in the magazine or chamber) when in a vehicle or walking to/from a hunt area.
• Dogs - In the check station parking area, dogs must be kept in autos or on a leash. Dogs are allowed off-leash only while hunting and under the control of their owner.
• Parking - Vehicle parking is allowed only in designated parking areas.
  • Vehicles may stop only at designated, assigned parking areas. The dropping of passengers or equipment or stopping between designated parking areas is prohibited except for designated mobility impaired areas.
• Littering and Fires - Please take your refuse with you when you leave; littering is unlawful and can be fined. Open fires are prohibited. 
• Alcoholic Beverages and Drugs -The consumption or possession of an open container of alcohol, within public areas of the refuge, is prohibited. Marijuana and illegal drugs are prohibited.
• Checkout - All hunters are required to check out at the check station, report hunting results, return their permits, and vacate the refuge no later than 1 1/2 hours after the end of shoot time.  Hunters need not vacate the refuge if participating in overnight stay on Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday nights.
• Bicycles - Access to the hunt area is by foot only. Bicycles and other conveyances are not permitted. 
• Injuries and Accidents - Incidents involving injury or accident occurring on the refuge must be reported immediately to the check station or Complex headquarters at (530) 934-2801. 

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Sacramento NWR Complex Special Regulations:

*This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs*. Click on Sacramento River NWR for information about hunting on the Sacramento River. 

• Spaced Hunting Areas at Sacramento & Delevan:
  Hunters are restricted to within 100 feet of their assigned blind or hunt site except for retrieving downed or crippled birds. Firearms must be unloaded while being transported between parking areas and spaced hunting areas.
• Free Roam Areas:
  Hunters may use only portable blinds, temporary blinds constructed of natural materials, or existing concrete in-ground blinds. The construction of permanent blinds is prohibited. The cutting/breaking of woody vegetation is prohibited. All portable blinds, decoys, and other personal equipment must be removed from the refuge each day.
• Upland Game (Pheasants) Special Regulations:
  Pheasant hunting is permitted during the pheasant season on waterfowl shoot days only. Shooting hours for pheasants are 8:00 a.m. to sunset. Approved nontoxic shot is required for hunting pheasants. Pheasant hunting is not permitted in the spaced hunting areas (Blinds/Assigned Ponds), except for a special one-day hunt (the first Monday of pheasant season) on Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs.
• Turkey Special Regulations:
  Hunting of fall turkey is permitted during the turkey season on waterfowl shoot days only. Approved nontoxic shot is required for hunting turkeys. Turkey hunting is not permitted in the spaced hunting areas (Blinds/Assigned Ponds).
• White-fronted Goose Special Management Area:
  • The White-fronted Goose Special Management Area is a specific zone within which there are special restrictions on the harvest of all white-fronted geese.  This area is located around the areas of Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs, and is bounded by Highway 162 to the north, Highway 45 to the east, Interstate 5 to the west, and Hahn Rd/Grimes Arbuckle Rd to the south. 
  • Within the Special Management Area, hunting regulations of all white-fronted geese are subject to a delayed opening date, lower bag limit, and mid-December closure, all of which are intended to reduce the harvest of tule greater white-fronted geese (aka 'tule geese'). 

  • The majority of all tule geese winter in the western Sacramento Valley, especially on or adjacent to the Sacramento, Delevan, and Colusa NWRs. In 1975 a Special Management Area was created around these refuges to eliminate the harvest of the then-endangered Aleutian cackling goose. Cackling cackling geese and Pacific white-fronted geese were included when both of those populations were also at record low levels. While those goose populations have since recovered, tule goose numbers remain low and require restrictive hunting regulations to protect their population.

    

    Image Details

    How are Tule white-fronts different?

    There are two subspecies of white-fronted geese (aka specklebellies) that winter in California: the tule greater white-fronted goose and the Pacific greater white-fronted goose.  Tule geese breed in the upper Cook Inlet Basin of Alaska and number only 7,000-10,000 birds and are only know to winter in the small area surrounding Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs. Pacific white-fronts breed in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region of Alaska number upward of 600,000 birds and winter throughout California. Physically, tule geese tend to be larger and darker than Pacifics with less speckling on the adults' breasts, have thicker and darker heads and necks, and have larger bills.  Despite these differences, there's a large degree of overlap in body size when comparing smaller tules to larger Pacifics, making field identification difficult.  Anatomical measurements are often needed to distinguish the two subspecies.

    

    Image Details

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Bag Limits, Shoot Times, and Other Regulations:

• California Regulations:  Fishing and Hunting Regulations 
• Season Dates and Bag Limits: 
   Waterfowl Hunting - All of the Sacramento NWR Complex hunt areas fall under Balance of the State Zone. 
   Upland Game Bird Hunting - check Zone maps for each species.
• Shoot Times:  Shooting Time Table for Bird Hunting - N. California - use the Colusa column for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs

2023-2024 (2024-2025 TBD) Sacramento NWR Complex - Hunting Seasons and Bag Limit Summary:

KEY:

1. Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa, Sutter, and Sacramento River NWR units listed below
2. Sacramento River NWR, all or part of the following units: La Barranca,  Todd Island, Mooney and Ohm (portions closed to waterfowl hunting), Flynn, Heron Island, Rio Vista, Foster Island, Pine Creek, Capay, Phelan Island, Jacinto, Dead Man’s Reach, South Ord, Llano Seco Island 1 and 2, Sul Norte, Codora (Juniors only on weekends only), Afton, Drumheller North, Drumheller Slough, and Bogg’s Bend
3. Daily Duck Bag Limits: 7 ducks/ but not more than 2 hen mallards, 1 pintail (either sex), 2 canvasback, 2 redheads (either sex), 2 scaup (either sex – scaup season Nov 7 – Jan 31); possession limit is triple the daily bag limit
4. Daily Geese Bag Limits: 30 geese; may include up to 20 white geese; 10 large Canada; 10 small Canada; 10 white-fronted EXCEPT in the Sacramento Valley (West) Special Management Area, including Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs, where the white-fronted goose season will open October 21 through December 21 and during Youth Hunting Days; bag limit 3 white-fronted geese; possession limit is triple the daily bag limit
   • Junior Hunts (18 or younger):  Sacramento NWR = Dec. 16; Delevan NWR = Dec 9;
   • Youth Hunting Days (17 or younger): Balance of State Zone: The 1^st Saturday following the closing of waterfowl season extending for 2 days [Feb 3 – Feb 4, 2024]
   • Veterans and Active Military Hunting Days: Balance of State Zone: Ducks only, extending for 2 days [Feb 10 – Feb 11, 2024]

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Frequently-Asked Questions and Safety Tips:

Are you new to hunting on the Complex? Click here to see a video our staff put together to help new hunters. Visit this Facebook Program for information.

Hunt Area Admission Questions (Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs):

Q: How do I apply to get a hunting spot?
A: see the list of Admission Methods in the Hunt Area Admission section, above

Q: What kinds of Fees and Passes do I need to know about?
A: see the table in Hunt Area Admission section, above

Q: Does my non-hunting guest need a Type-A Pass?
A: no, a non-hunting guest is not required to purchase a Type-A Pass for entrance

Q: How many people can be on a reservation/lottery?
A: see the Admissions Summary Table in the Hunt Area Admission section, above

Q: What time do I need to be at the Check Station?
A: see the Admissions Summary Table in the Hunt Area Admission section, above

Q: How late can I get there and still have my reservation be valid?
A: Sacramento and Delevan NWRs - reservations must be presented no later than 1 ½ hours before shoot time; Colusa/Sutter NWRs - reservations must be presented no later than 1 hour before shoot time

Q: What time is the Lottery?
A: Check stations open at 6:00 pm the night before the hunt day; Lottery entries are accepted between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm Tue, Fri, Sat; Lottery numbers are drawn and posted after 8:00 pm Tue, Fri, Sat. 

Q: Do I need to be present during the Lottery?
A: no

Q: Do all members of my hunting party need to be present to put in for the Lottery?
A: no - one person from your hunting party can put everyone into the lottery as long as he/she has everyone's hunting info (name, Go ID #s, vehicle license plate) 

Q: Can I put in for the Lottery at more than one refuge?
A: no - starting in 2022, hunters are permitted to enter only one lottery for one Type A wildlife area each Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. This includes refuges and state wildlife areas. Hunters are permitted to enter only one lottery whether you are personally entering the lottery or someone is putting your name in the lottery. If a hunter’s name appears on more than one lottery list, they will be removed and are subject to citation and a seasonal ban from National Wildlife Refuge hunting areas.

Q: When is the Lottery list purged? (purge: a point at which hunters who have a Lottery #, but are not present, are removed from the list)
A: A Lottery purge will be conducted the morning of the hunt at 8:00 a.m. by check station personnel.

Q: How low do I need to be on the lottery to get in to hunt?
A: You never know! Some days if you are #150 you can get on to hunt, but every day is different! The lottery purge eliminates many hunters providing more opportunities.

Q: Can I bring a non-hunter with me?
A: yes, up to 2 per adult hunter, but they will count towards your party total of 4 persons

Q: When do they stop hunter refills?
A: No entry permits are issued after 3:00 p.m.  

Q: What if I have questions about the Online License System or my waterfowl license?
A: Check the CDFW website for answers to common questions.

Q: What blind, assigned pond, or free roam area should I hunt?      
A: Every day and every hunter is different! Each day brings different weather, different waterfowl, and different hunters with different skills and abilities. First, determine what refuge you want to hunt and what type of area is right for you (blind, assigned pond, or free roam).  Hunt Area Descriptions and past Hunt Results, and aerial maps of the hunt areas are posted at the check stations. Go early to the check station and talk with other hunters and the check station staff. Check station staff are willing to help you find a great spot to hunt for the day.   

Q: What To Bring?
A:
- Tule stools are highly recommended to make it more comfortable and successful to hide in the vegetation in the free roam areas and around Delevan's hunt site islands.
- Decoys and calls should be used to bring birds into ideal shooting range. When setting out decoys, place the outer decoy at 40 yards from the blind. This will help you judge when to shoot and decrease the likelihood of crippling birds.
- A good dog will retrieve your game and lessen disturbance to birds and other hunters in the area.
- Do NOT bring vegetation into the refuge - visitors may not introduce plants and animals or their parts taken from anywhere off the refuge onto the refuge, except as authorized (Title 50 Code of Federal Regulations 27.52). 

Q: What do I need to know for my first time?
A: Be sure to have a valid license, Federal Duck Stamp signed, state duck stamp, HIP validation, and a hunting pass. Nothing is sold at the check stations. These can be purchased at local sporting good stores and other businesses. Federal Duck Stamps can be purchased at many sporting good stores and post offices.

Q: Do I need chest waders?
A: YES!! Water levels can vary in every pond. 

Q: Can I stay overnight in the parking lot?
A: Yes, hunters are permitted to stay in their personal vehicles or RVs in the check station parking lots overnight. No tents are permitted. No alcohol or open flames are permitted. All vehicles and RVs must be removed at the end of the hunt day.     

Q: Can I cook in the parking lot?
A: Yes but no open flames. Please use propane or natural gas with a cover. No fire pits and no charcoal. This prevents wildfires and people dumping hot charcoal.

Junior/Youth Hunter Questions?

 Please visit the Junior/Youth Hunt page

Mobility-Impaired Hunter Questions?

 Please visit the Mobility-Impaired Hunting page

Pheasant Hunting Questions? 

Q: What is the best method for admissions (reservations, lottery, first-come, first-serve) if I only want to hunt pheasants?
A: You cannot hunt pheasants until 8am, so lottery and first-come-first-serve are the best methods for admission.

Q: Where can I hunt pheasants?
A: On Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa, and Sutter NWR, free-roam areas are open to pheasant hunting. You many NOT hunt pheasants in the assigned ponds or assigned blinds except for pheasant Monday. The Sacramento River NWR is a type-C area (no check stations and no type-A pass needed) and pheasants may be hunted there (see the specific Units map for hunting details).

Q: What passes do I need?
A:Hunters will need a type-A pass, license, and an upland game stamp.

Q: Can I hunt pheasants and waterfowl?
A:Yes as long as you check in with the check station first, are in free-roam, and have all the appropriate licenses and stamps.

Q: When is pheasant Monday and what are the rules?
A: Please visit the Special Hunts page

Turkey Hunting Questions? 

Q: Can I hunt turkeys at Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs?
A: Fall turkey hunting is permitted in the free roam and pheasant-only areas of Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa, and Sutter NWRs and is open on Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays concurrent with established CDFW fall turkey hunting season.

Q: Can I hunt turkeys at Sacramento River NWR?
A: Fall and Spring turkey hunting is permitted on various units of the Sacramento River NWR concurrent with established CDFW fall and spring turkey hunting seasons - please see the Sacramento River NWR Hunting page for more information.

Q: I've heard about a special spring turkey hunt, what is it?
A: Starting in 2020, a special Mentored Spring Turkey Hunt has been in development at Sacramento and Delevan NWRs to connect with first-time hunters in the CDFW hunter recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3) program.  The Refuge does not administer this program but information may be posted to our Special Hunts page as it becomes available. 

Sacramento River NWR Hunting: 

Q: Are there hunter check stations on the Sacramento River NWR?
A: There are no hunter check stations on the Sacramento River NWR.  There are no hunting fees or hunter quotas, and specified refuge lands (see Unit Maps and Recreation Info webpage for specific areas open/closed to hunting) are open to hunting and fishing in the appropriate season.

Q: What species can I hunt on the Sacramento River NWR?
A: Visit the Sacramento River NWR - Hunting page for detailed information.

Q: What types of firearms/ammunition can I use on the Sacramento River NWR?
A: Shotguns and archery equipment are permitted during the hunting season in hunting areas only, but must be transported "unloaded" (meaning no ammunition in the chamber or magazine) through safety zones from the parking to hunting areas. No rifles, pistols or crossbows may be used or possessed on the refuge.  You may only possess non-toxic shot while in the field.  

Q: Can I use a deer stand or temporary blind on the Sacramento River NWR?
A: Temporary, portable stands and blinds are allowed but must be removed when you leave.  Construction or use of permanent blinds, platforms, ladders or screw-in foot pegs is prohibited. You must remove all personal property, including decoys and boats, by 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset.  Cutting and removal of vegetation for blind construction or for making trails is strictly prohibited.  Visitors may not introduce plants and animals or their parts taken from anywhere off the refuge onto the refuge, except as authorized (Title 50 Code of Federal Regulations 27.52). 

Q: Are dogs allowed on the Sacramento River NWR?
A: Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leash, except for authorized hunting activities under the immediate control of a licensed hunter.  Dogs are prohibited while hunting big game (black-tailed deer and feral pigs).

Q: Can I camp on the Sacramento River NWR?
A: Camping is allowed only on gravel bars (below mean high-water mark) for up to 7 days during a 30 day period.  Camping is prohibited on other refuge lands.  Fires are prohibited except for portable gas stove on gravel bars.

Safety Tips:

Be Safe!!
- Exercise caution when pursuing downed and crippled waterfowl.
- Be aware of the locations of nearby hunters when shooting at crippled birds, especially across large areas of open water.
- Firearms must be unloaded while in the parking area and while being transported between parking areas, spaced hunting areas, and assigned ponds.
- Irregularities in pond bottoms can make wading hazardous.
- While walking trails/levees use a flashlight to avoid tripping over hazards.
- Mountain lions and rattlesnakes inhabit the Sacramento Valley and are frequently seen on the Sacramento River NWR Units and occasionally on the west-side refuges
- Be a good sportsperson and respect the rights of other hunters afield. When entering or leaving the field, try to avoid flaring birds which are working another hunter's setup.

Our wildlife is a valuable resource. Laws and regulations are intended to protect them, while allowing for some consumptive use. Hunters are encouraged to report any violations they may encounter to a state or federal employee (see below).

While driving:

1. Use CAUTION....slow down so you have time to read the small road signs and to make a safe turn.
2. Plan additional driving time when there is foggy or rainy weather.
3. Review the driving directions, location map, and GPS coordinates BEFORE you begin driving - PLAN AHEAD! Visit the Maps and Directions page. 

Report Accidents, Violations, and Incidents

Incidents involving injury or accident occurring on the refuge must be reported immediately to the check station (in person) or call the refuge headquarters. 

• Call the visitor center phone number (open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.) (530)934-2801
• Call to report any wildlife violations to CalTip 1-888-334-CalTip (1-888-334-2258) (leave message and an operator checks it frequently)
• Text "847411" and write "CALTIP [your message]" to submit anonymous tips to state wildlife officers 
• Call to report federal wildlife crimes 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477)
• Learn more

Report violations on the refuge headquarters by calling (530)934-2801 or in person to the staff at the check station. Report violations off refuge lands to CDFW at 1-888-DFG-CALTIP (1-888-334-2258). 

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Information for Dog Owners

Image Details

Canine Pythiosis

This and further information can be viewed at: http://pythiosis.com/

What is Canine Pythiosis?

• A relatively new pathogen, Pythium insidiosum, has rarely been documented in the California Central Valley over the last 10 years.
• It is a parasitic oomycete, commonly called water mould, and is common in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is more common in the Gulf of Mexico and East Coast areas, but can rarely be found in cooler and drier areas of the U.S. as well. The zoospores are thought to be hosted by aquatic plants such as water lilies, submerged grasses and rice.
• Infection is contracted by exposure of open wounds or by ingestion.
• Because it is so uncommon, many veterinarians are unaware of it, and thus have difficulty in making an early diagnosis.

What are symptoms of Canine Pythiosis?

• Vomiting diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, occasional fever, abdominal mass, and enlarged lymph nodes. Vomitus that looks like coffee grounds, and bloody diarrhea indicate gastric bleeding.
• Skin lesions may occur if open wounds have been exposed, and are characterized by swollen, non-healing wounds with pus-filled nodules and draining sinus tracts that often enlarge rapidly.

What is the treatment for Canine Pythiosis?

• Early diagnosis is important, since P. insidiosum lesions progress rapidly. Diagnosis is made by use of biopsies, blood tests and abdominal radiographs.
• Even with treatment, pythiosis is commonly fatal. But early diagnosis increases the chances that treatment will be effective. Treatments may include surgery, anti-fungal drugs and immunotherapeutic drugs.

Blue-Green Algae (Cyanobacteria) Blooms

Information from: NY State Department of Environmental Conservation and California Department of Public Health. This and further information can be viewed at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/77118.html 

What are blue-green algae blooms?

• Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are microscopic bacteria that occur naturally in lakes and streams.
• Blooms are likely to occur more often in warmer months when conditions are optimal (warm temperatures, elevated nutrient levels, and lack of water flow).
• A blue-green algae bloom can be hard to distinguish from other types of algae. While it's often described as looking like pea soup or spilled green paint, it can take other forms as well (turquoise or green tint, thick or thin viscosity, may get blown into a “mat”)
• View photo gallery at https://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/81962.html

What’s the concern about blue-green algae blooms?

• While most blue-green algae blooms are not harmful, some blooms can produce toxins that pose risks to humans, pets, livestock and wildlife.
• It is not possible to determine the presence of toxins without testing. Thus all blooms should be considered potentially toxic.
• Exposure may occur through ingestion, dermal contact, or aspiration/inhalation. Ingestion of just a few mouthfuls of severely contaminated water may result in poisoning. After leaving the water, dogs can also be poisoned by grooming their fur and paws.

What are the symptoms of toxic blue-green algae exposure?

• Symptoms of poisoning depend on the cyanobacterium/toxin involved:
• Ingestion of Microcystins can result in liver damage/failure. Symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhea, blood in stool or black/tarry stool, weakness, pale mucous membranes, jaundice, seizures, and disorientation. Death often occurs within 12-24 hours of exposure.
• Ingestion of Anatoxins result in neurotoxicity. Symptoms include: excessive salivation, muscle tremors, muscle rigidity, seizures, paralysis, blue discoloration of skin and mucous membranes, and difficulty breathing. Symptom onset is rapid (30-60 minutes), and death from respiratory paralysis can quickly follow the onset of symptoms.
• Symptoms of skin contact include dermatitis (irritated, red skin or hives).

What is the treatment for toxic blue-green algae exposure?

• Treatment is limited and often unsuccessful due to the rapid onset of symptoms. Immediate, aggressive veterinary treatment may be helpful. Treatments may include anti-seizure medication, intravenous fluids and oxygen.

What should I do to protect my dog?

• Keep pets out of water with blue-green algae blooms. Wash your pet if they have been exposed.
• If your dog exhibits the above symptoms, seek immediate care.

Where have blooms occurred in California (as of 2013)?

• Blue-green algal blooms have been reported for a number of water bodies, including: Klamath River (Siskiyou County), Big Lagoon and Eel River, (Humboldt County), Clear Lake (Lake County), Lake Isabella (Kern County), Crowley Lake (Mono County), Lake Elsinore (Riverside County), San Francisco Bay Delta & Stockton Channel (San Joaquin County), Pinto Lake (Santa Cruz County), Sacramento River (Sacramento County), Russian River (Sonoma County).

Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease)

Information from: County of Los Angeles Public Health-Veterinary Public Health. This and further information can be found at: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/Leptospirosis.htm
What is Leptospirosis?

• Leptospirosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Leptospira interrogans.
• It can infect humans, dogs, livestock, and many other animals.
• Infection occurs by direct or indirect contact with the urine of an infected animal through the eyes, nose, mouth, or broken skin. Exposure to water or mud contaminated with infected urine can spread the disease.
• Because infection can be transmitted through contact with urine, a person caring for a dog with Leptospirosis should wear gloves, especially when cleaning up urine.

What are symptoms of Leptospirosis?

• Symptoms in dogs include: fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, lack of appetite, lethargy, stiffness, muscle pain.
• Symptoms in humans include: high fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, jaundice, red eyes, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash. 
• Left untreated, Leptospirosis can eventually lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory distress or death.

What is the treatment for Leptospirosis?

• Veterinarians can perform tests to confirm Leptospirosis. Antibiotic treatments are often highly successful, especially if diagnosed early

What should I do to protect my dog? 

• Consider vaccinating your dog for Leptospirosis
• Local data suggest that a variety of Leptospira serotypes (strains) of bacteria may have caused illness in dogs.
• The 4-way vaccines (protecting against 4 strains of the bacteria) are a better choice for protection than the 2-way vaccines.

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Sacramento NWR Complex Hunt Plan

Management of the hunt program is outlined in the Sacramento NWR Complex's Hunt Plan.  This document outlines how the refuges will provide safe, quality hunting opportunities while minimizing conflicts with other priority wildlife-dependent recreational uses.  When found to be compatible at a refuge, the USFWS considers hunting to be one of the six priority wildlife-dependent recreational uses (the other 5 priority uses include fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation). The Hunt Plan and a Compatibility Determination can be found in theComprehensive Conservation Plan (Appendices B and C), and determined hunting to be a compatible use at Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs. The Complex's hunting objective is to implement a safe and high quality hunting program including opportunities for approximately 22,000 annual hunting visits on over 8,525 acres.

The Sacramento NWR Complex manages our lands, habitats and facilities, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife selects and processes the hunters and operates the hunter check stations. The hunt areas are physically separated from non-hunted lands and are open to migratory bird and upland game bird hunting during the appropriate seasons. These hunt program parameters help minimize conflicts with visitors engaged in other recreational activities. The Complex adopts harvest regulations set by the state, which uses concepts of density-dependent compensatory mortality and adaptive harvest management to ensure sustained game species populations.

A Refuge Hunting Program Working Group was established in 1991 to exchange ideas and information with the public regarding the Complex's hunting program. A Disabled Hunter Working Group also supports the hunt program by providing feedback, ideas, and information about the mobility impaired blinds.

An annual Brush Up Day occurs every year in September to allow the public assist in cleaning up the Sacramento and Delevan NWRs. Volunteers are an essential part of the refuge and this day gets a lot of work completed! Contact the refuge for more information or see above under "news" if the event is coming up.

Comments about the hunt program can be submitted via the comment boxes posted on the hunter check stations, via phone, or via email sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov

Hunt program volunteers are needed! Contact us if you are interested to see how you can assist. 530-934-2801 or sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov.

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Other Resources

• Sac NWR Complex - New to hunting on the Complex? Watch this video for new hunters (link to Facebook)
• CDFW's Waterfowl Hunting Regulation Booklet (2023-24)
• CDFW's Shooting Times for Bird Hunting - Sac NWR Complex falls under Colusa column
• CDFW's Public Hunting Areas - for info about other hunting areas  
• LEAD SLUGS - as of July 1, 2015, LEAD SLUGS are no longer permitted on the Sacramento River NWR Units or state Wildlife Areas for big game. For more information about Non-lead Ammunition in California, visit the CDFW's website (look under Frequently-Asked Questions).

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