Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge
Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established in 1934 primarily to preserve wintering habitat for migratory waterfowl. The Refuge's predominant feature is the 40,000-acre Lake Mattamuskeet, the largest natural lake in North Carolina. Mattamuskeet NWR provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors! Hunting is allowed in accordance with applicable State and Federal regulations under a refuge issued permit and in designated areas. Hunting opportunities include deer hunts, a September Canada Goose hunt, and Late-season Waterfowl hunts. A separate permit is required for each of these hunts.
The pass allows the holder to participate in the September Canada Goose Hunt. Hunting is allowed Monday through Saturday during the North Carolina September Canada goose season. Canada geese may only be taken with shotguns using approved non-toxic shot. Bag limits are the same as those prescribed by the State. Canada goose hunting is allowed throughout the refuge except in those areas designated as closed on the hunt map found here:
https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2024-08/mattamuskeet-virtual-goose-hunt-2024.pdf
Youth
Youth hunters (under 16) must carry and possess evidence of completion of a State-approved
hunter safety course. They must be supervised by a validly licensed adult at least 21 years of
age. Each adult may supervise up to two youth, remaining in sight and normal voice contact at
all times. Both adult and youth hunters require a pass.
Access
Permitted hunters will be authorized access from one hour before legal shooting time until one hour after legal shooting time. Vehicles are restricted to designated roads only (see map).
Access to open hunting areas behind road gates will be by foot, bicycle, or boat only.
Boats are allowed on the lake during the September Canada Goose Hunt.
Refuge hunting blinds may be used on a first come, first served basis with the exception of Blind #1 which is in a closed area.
Disabled sportsmen with valid proof of disability should contact the refuge office prior to arrival if special arrangements are needed.
Hunters are reminded that the land adjacent to the refuge is privately owned and entering or hunting on this land is at the discretion of the landowner.
General Regulations and Enforcement
Hunters, including youth, must carry a valid Pass while hunting. In addition, hunters must possess the proper North Carolina hunting licenses, a signed Federal duck stamp, and a HIP certification.
Please be prepared to show your hard copy pass or digital pass on your mobile device. Print out or download the pass on your mobile device in advance of your visit as cellular service may be limited.
Passes are non-transferable, non-refundable, not replaceable if lost or stolen, and are void if altered or reproduced.
Hunters using the refuge are subject to inspections of permits, licenses, hunting equipment, bag limits, vehicles, and their contents by Refuge or State law enforcement officers.
Shooting hours are in accordance with State regulations.
Hunting is restricted to the use and possession of non-toxic shot shells only.
Decoys may only be put out on the morning of the hunt and must be removed daily. Portable blinds are permitted but must be removed daily.
The use of retrieving dogs is permitted, but dogs must be under voice command at all times.
Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42) and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32.
Prohibited Activities
• Distributing and hunting over, or by the aid of any type of bait (food, salt, other minerals or other substances that lures or attracts animals)
• Use of ATV's and any other unlicensed and unregistered vehicles
• Shooting on, from, or across any of the four designated vehicle access roads (see refuge hunt map)
• Use of artificial lights, including vehicle headlights, to observe, locate, or take wildlife
• Possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting
• Taking or possession of any plants and wildlife (other than Canada geese)
• Littering - if you pack it in, pack it out!
• Camping or open fires
• Overnight parking