Individuals 16-years-old or older and participating in hunting or fishing activities on the refuge, who are required to have a Kentucky State hunting/fishing license, must also have a refuge annual hunt/fish permit.
Please refer to the refuge Public Use Regulation Brochure for current refuge specific regulations.
Beginning in the 2024-2025 hunting seasons, there are changes to how hunting/fishing permits are acquired for Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge.
Clarks River NWR annual hunt/fish permits will continue to be issued at no charge and can be obtained at RecAccess. The below fee structure structure
Something temporarily or permanently constructed, built, or placed; and constructed of natural or manufactured parts including, but not limited to, a building, shed, cabin, porch, bridge, walkway, stair steps, sign, landing, platform, dock, rack, fence, telecommunication device, antennae, fish cleaning table, satellite dish/mount, or well head.
Learn more about structure for obtaining an annual refuge hunt/fish permit is anticipated to take effect starting August 1, 2025. Current annual hunt/fish permits will be valid until the fee structure takes effect.
- Youth (under 16) - Free
- Youth applying for quota hunt - $10
- Age 16 and older - $20
- Senior/Disabled - $10
- Military/Veteran - $10
If you need access to a printer, Marshall County Public Library has computer resources that can help (1150 Birch Street, Benton, KY 42025; 270/527-9969).
Waterfowl Quota Hunts
Applications for the Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge 2024-2025 Waterfowl Quota Hunt will be accepted, on the RecAccess site, starting September 1st through October 15th. Descriptions and aerial images of the quota hunt units are available on this page. Also new in the 2024-2025 season, is the ability for unsuccessful applicants in the Waterfowl Quota Hunt to begin collecting preference points through the RecAccess system.
Maps and Other Resources
A map showing refuge land, parking areas, road names, location of waterfowl quota hunt units, and other features of the refuge can be found here.
Aerial images and descriptions of the Waterfowl Quota Hunt Units can be found on this page.
Be aware of an extended closure of KY 408 east of Benton, KY the detour route could increase travel time to southern portions of the refuge.
The Public Use Regulations Brochure contains refuge regulations for visitors wanting to participate in outdoor recreation on refuge land.
Here is the link to view or download the latest edition of Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources' Hunting and Fishing guides.
