Hunting is an extremely popular activity on Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge. Regulated deer hunting is permitted on portions of the refuge, as is waterfowl and upland game bird hunting. The McCormack Slough Fee Hunt Area is open for waterfowl hunting three days per week—Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday—and Thanksgiving Day and New Years Day. The refuge follows Washington/Oregon State hunting regulations, but there are also special refuge provisions that apply, and hunters must know them before they step into the field. Please visit our Rules & Regulations page for more information.
Waterfowl hunting lotteries for Umatilla open the second Monday in August and close on the second Friday in September. On the second Monday in August, links will be available on this page to take you to the respective lottery application.
The refuge covers a variety of habitats, including rough, uneven terrain, deep waters, dense stands of vegetation, stubble fields and ditches, and hunters should examine their own abilities and limitations before using the refuge. Disabled persons should hunt with a partner and consult the refuge manager for suggestions for hunting the area safely.
The use of dogs is not mandatory, but highly encouraged. Successful hunters usually have a dog to retrieve downed birds that otherwise might not be found. Decoys and calls should be used to bring birds into ideal shooting range.
The Waterfowl Season Hunting Hotline, (541) 922-HUNT, is open from just before the start of the waterfowl season to the end of the season.
Tearsheets for regulations can be found on the Complex's regulations page.