Special Deer Hunt at Rice Lake NWR to Limit Public Access October 9-12
The Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge in McGregor will hold its annual deer hunt for hunters with disabilities from October 9 through 12. To facilitate this event, the Wildlife Drive will close to general public access at noon each day during the four-day period.
Visitors may access the refuge from sunrise until noon daily, with afternoon closures in effect for all except those participating in the designated deer hunt. Areas unaffected by the afternoon closures include the access points along Highway 65 on the eastern boundary of the refuge, as well as two access points off County Highway 4. These remain open for small game and archery deer hunters, who must continue to hunt only in the designated public hunting zones.
Waterfowl Migration and Habitat at Rice Lake
Mid-October marks a critical period for waterfowl migration at Rice Lake NWR. Historically, the refuge has been a significant stopover, with a 1994 survey recording over 1 million ducks—the highest concentration ever documented in Minnesota. A similar high count of approximately 965,000 ducks, geese, and swans was observed during the 2017 waterfowl survey on October 31.
Despite these numbers, Rice Lake remains closed to waterfowl hunting, reflecting its primary function as a wildlife sanctuary during key migration periods. This year, wild rice production on Rice Lake has exceeded average levels due to well-timed spring and summer rainfall, providing crucial food resources for migrating waterfowl. However, waterfowl numbers have yet to surge significantly, likely due to the unseasonably warm temperatures extending into northern breeding grounds in Canada.
Wildlife Viewing and Refuge Access During National Wildlife Refuge Week
The best opportunities to observe waterfowl and other wildlife at Rice Lake are typically during early mornings and late evenings. Visitors are encouraged to use the observation platform overlooking the lake and bring binoculars for optimal viewing.
In observance of National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 12-18, the refuge will open the west gate to provide alternate entry and exit points. Due to the accessible hunt, this gate will remain closed until October 13 and will stay open through October 19. All visitors are reminded to follow refuge hours from sunrise to sunset and comply with posted one-way traffic signs for safety.
Additional Information
- Deer hunt dates for persons with disabilities: October 9-12
- Wildlife Drive closure to general public: Noon to sunset on all four days
- Open access areas: Highway 65 east edge and County Highway 4 access points
- Refuge hours for visitors: Sunrise to noon during hunt days; sunrise to sunset otherwise
- National Wildlife Refuge Week access via west gate: October 13-19
For further details or updates, contact Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge at 218-768-2402 or visit www.fws.gov/refuge/rice_lake/.
Additional reporting and sources from: Oct. 9-12 deer hunt at Rice Lake NWR will limit public access – Brainerd Dispatch | News, weather, sports from Brainerd and Baxter
