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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Return to Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

Sacramento NWR Complex - Hunting

Updated October 7, 2026
Welcome! 

On this page you can find all the information you need about hunting at Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs, including: 

Click on one of the topics ABOVE or to the RIGHT to jump to that section of this page.

Links to Additional Sacramento NWR Complex Hunting Pages:  Sacramento NWR Complex - Special Hunts/Juniors/Mobility-Impaired Hunting page, Sacramento RIVER NWR Hunting page.

Overview:  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 and Sutter NWR. Other hunting is available along certain units of the Sacramento River NWR, also in accordance with all applicable state and federal regulations.

During the waterfowl hunting season, these refuges (Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa, and Sutter NWRs) 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.

Who manages the hunt programs? 

Understanding the different roles of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife:

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) manages the hunting programs of both state and federal lands in the Sacramento Valley, while Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) manages the lands and habitats of our 5 federal refuges, on which hunting happens. Much of the information found across our hunting pages will be directly copied from CDFW webpages, as the information pertains to state regulations and is applicable to hunting on the refuges listed below. Our small team of staff and volunteers can do our best to help answer questions regarding the regulations for hunting, but you may find that contacting CDFW directly is a better fit to getting your questions answered.

Updates for 2026-2027

Updates will be posted here as information becomes available:
  • ALERTS and CLOSURES (Sacramento NWR Complex) = are posted at the top of our Main homepage and on Facebook and Instagram as soon as they are known.  
  • ALERTS and CLOSURES (State Wildlife Areas) = for closures at Gray Lodge, Little Dry Creek, Upper Butte Basin's Llano Seco hunt area, Howard Slough, etc., please visit CDFW's Wildlife Area Emergency Closures webpage.
  • Waterfowl Hunting Season = October 24, 2026 - January 31, 2027 (Balance of the State Zone, regular season)
  • Lottery (Vacancy Draw) Results Now Available Online = log in to CDFW's Online License Sales and Services page, use the CDFW License App, or visit the dedicated web pages accessible with a QR code posted at the check-stations (Sacramento results, Delevan results, Colusa results, Sutter results).
  • Special Hunt (Junior/Youth, Veteran/Active Military) Dates = visit our Special Hunts page
  • Seasons and Bag Limits = see our BAG LIMITS, SHOOT TIMES and REGULATIONS section, below
  • Shooting Times = Shooting Times for Bird Hunting (CDFW, 2025-2026 - update pending) - refer to the times in the Colusa column for all refuges within the Sacramento NWR Complex.
  • Hunt Area Maps = visit our Hunt Area Maps page
  • Flood-up Maps, Weekly Quotas, Blind/Pond Results = this information is ONLY available in-person at the Hunter Check Stations - this information is NOT available by calling the refuge.
  • Weekly Refuge Hunt Results = this information is ONLY available online through CDFW's Waterfowl Hunt Results webpage - this information is NOT available by calling the refuge.
  • California Regulations = visit CDFW's Hunting License Items and Fees page and/or the season's Regulations Booklets for complete information from the state.  Also, see our BAG LIMITS, SHOOT TIMES and REGULATIONS section, below.

Hunt Area Admission

Licenses, Validations and Passes

The following information was pulled from CDFW's Hunting License Items and Fees page that's applicable to hunting Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs. Please visit their page for more information regarding costs and other types of hunting licenses, big game tags/drawing applications, reservation applications for state-operated hunting areas and more.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED before you arrive*:  Licenses, Validations and Passes

*Hunters must purchase any of the following necessary licenses, validations and passes prior to arrival at the Check Station (non-hunters do not need to have any licenses, validations or passes when accompanying a hunting individual):

  1. CALIFORNIA HUNTING LICENSE = required for any person taking birds or mammals.
    • Hunters must carry licenses and be prepared to show them on request. 
    • The license is valid July 1 through June 30. 
    • Copied from CDFW's Hunting License Page: "Resident Hunting License: Required for any resident 16 years of age or older who takes birds or mammals." "Junior Hunting License: Required for any resident or nonresident less than 16 years of age who takes birds or mammals. To qualify, hunter must be less than 16 years of age at the beginning of the license year (July 1)."
  2. HARVEST INFORMATION PROGRAM (HIP) VALIDATION = required for any person hunting ducks, dove, gallinules, geese, band-tailed pigeon, black brant, coots, and snipe. 
    • This validation is free to hunters who complete the Harvest Information Program (HIP) Survey. The HIP Validation is imprinted on your hunting license document when you answer the HIP Survey questions. If you hunt migratory game birds, verify that a HIP Validation has been printed on your hunting license.  The HIP Survey provides wildlife biologists with data needed to make wildlife management decisions and formulate hunting seasons. More information about HIP.
  3. CALIFORNIA DUCK VALIDATION = Required for any hunter taking waterfowl. 
    • Not required if only hunting pheasants. 
    • Not required for Junior Hunters under the authority of a Junior Hunting License. 
    • A full breakdown of what permits are required for Junior and Youth Hunters, organized by license type and age, can be found on our Hunting: Junior, Mobility & Special Hunts page.
  4. FEDERAL DUCK STAMP = Required for all hunters age 16 or older. 
    • Not required if only hunting pheasants. 
    • A full breakdown of what permits are required for Junior and Youth Hunters, organized by license type and age, can be found on our Hunting: Junior, Mobility & Special Hunts page.
  5. UPLAND GAME BIRD VALIDATION = Required for any person taking upland game bird species, excluding juniors hunting under the authority of a Junior Hunting License. 
  6. PREPAID TYPE A PASS = Allows a licensed hunter to hunt on a Type A State-operated Wildlife Area. 
    • Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs are all Type A hunt areas. 
    • Hunters can choose from a One-Day, Two-Day or Season Pass. 
    • More details can be found on CDFW's Hunting License Items and Fees page. Junior hunters are exempt from permit requirements. A full breakdown of what permits are required for Junior and Youth Hunters, organized by license type and age, can be found on our Hunting: Junior, Mobility & Special Hunts page.
WHERE TO PURCHASE licenses, validation and passes BEFORE you arrive (check stations do NOT sell these):
  1. CALIFORNIA HUNTING LICENSE, HIP VALIDATION, CALIFORNIA DUCK VALIDATION, TYPE-A PASS, UPLAND GAME BIRD VALIDATION:
    • Go in-person to a CDFW License Sales Office
    • Go in-person to a License Agent (i.e. a sporting goods store)
    • Purchase Online at: CDFW Online License Sales and Services  - click on the blue ONLINE SALES AND SERVICES button, click on orange CUSTOMER LOG-IN button, log in with DOB/name/GO-ID, click on PURCHASE LICENSES button, then on HUNTING.
      • *if you purchase a Type A Pass online, you CANNOT print it at home for immediate use - Type A Passes purchased online are mailed to the customer, and take up to 15 days for shipping.  If you need a pass for use in less than 15 days, visit a license agent or CDFW license sales office in-person.
    • find more information on CDFW's Hunting License Items and Fees page regarding costs and other types of hunting licenses, big game tags/drawing applications, reservation applications for state-operated hunting areas and more.
  2. FEDERAL DUCK STAMP:
    • Federal Duck Stamps can be purchased at many post offices and some license agents.
    • Purchases can be made online (including E-Stamps) or in-person by visiting Buy a Duck Stamp or E-Stamp. 

How to Gain Admission to the Hunt Areas:

There are 3 methods for hunt area admission:  1) by reservation, 2) by lottery (vacancy draw) and 3) first-come first-served.  For details on mobility-impaired hunter admission, see our Mobility Impaired Hunting page. This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs - visit our Sacramento River NWR page for information about hunting on the river. 

  1. RESERVATIONS - how apply for a reservation:
    1. A hunter must apply for a reservation at least 17 days in advance of desired hunt day.
    2. A hunter may apply for a reservation online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (click on the blue ONLINE SALES AND SERVICES button, click on orange CUSTOMER LOG-IN button, log in with DOB/name/GO-ID, click on PURCHASE LICENSES button, then on HUNTING, then go to DRAWINGS section), or wherever hunting licenses are sold. Only the hunter who is applying needs to provide their GO-ID at the time of application.
    3. If a reservation is granted, the reservation holder may bring 3 additional party members on the day of their reservation (see Admissions Summary Table, below). The reservation holder must be present for entry on that reservation.
    4. The daily quota of hunters is filled first by those holding advance reservations - see Daily Admissions Procedures, below.
    5. See past years' waterfowl reservation drawing statistics (this link will take you to CDFW's website).
  2. LOTTERY - how to apply for the Lottery (Vacancy Draw):
    1. Hunters who do not have a reservation may enter the lottery at the Check Station between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, the night before the desired hunt day. 
      • Hunters may only enter one Type A  Area lottery each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday; hunters in violation of this regulation are subject to citation and a seasonal ban from National Wildlife Refuge hunting areas. This means a hunter's name is only permitted to show up on the front/back of ONE lottery card per hunt day.
    2. Hunters obtain and fill out a lottery card at the Check Station, and are given a card number. 
      • Up to 4 people may put their names on one lottery card. All party member names & license numbers must be on the lottery card at the time of the drawing for entry the next day. This includes adult hunters, junior hunters (no more than two juniors per adult) and non-hunters (non-hunters do not need license numbers).
      • Hunters may leave the area once their lottery card is submitted and need not to be present during the drawing.
    3. The drawing is conducted at 8:00pm on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Card numbers are randomly drawn and given a lottery number:
      • Lottery results will be posted at the Check Station and will be available online by logging in to CDFW's Online License Sales and Services page, via the CDFW License App, or on the dedicated web pages accessible with a QR code posted at the check-stations (Sacramento results, Delevan results, Colusa results, Sutter results).
      • Hunters will be called by their LOTTERY NUMBER the next morning.
    4. The morning of the hunt, lottery number holders will be issued an entry permit after reservation holders have been processed - see Daily Admissions Procedures, below.
    5. Lottery numbers will be purged at 8:00 am the morning of the hunt, and names of hunters not present will be removed from the list.
  3. FIRST-COME-FIRST-SERVED - how to apply for a "sweat-line" number:
    1. A hunter without a reservation or a lottery number may wait in the "sweat-line" and will be allowed admission that morning after all reservations and lottery holders are admitted.
    2. Hunters arriving at the Check Station any time after the lottery drawing (8:00 pm the night before the hunt day) and the end of entry admissions (3:00 pm on the hunt day) will be issued a first-come, first-served number.
    3. Unlike the lottery, each hunter must be physically present to sign up.
    4. After all reservation and lottery number holders have been processed, first-come, first-served hunters are admitted - see Daily Admissions Procedures, below.
    5. No entry permits will be issued after 3:00 pm.

Daily Admissions Procedures - what to expect the morning of your hunt:

This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs.

  1. RESERVATIONS - daily admission procedures:
    1. Processing begins 2½ hours before waterfowl shoot time on Sacramento and Delevan, and 2 hours before waterfowl shoot time on Colusa and Sutter NWRs.
      • 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. If a reservation card holder is not present when card number is called, they will be allowed to enter upon arrival, or until the end of the reservation period. Once the reservation period has expired, the reservation will be invalid with no exceptions.
    2. Mobility Impaired (MI) reservation holders will be processed first.
      • An 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.
    3. Non-MI reservation holders will be processed second. 
      • 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.
    4. A reservation holder may take up to three additional people, including no more than two juniors or nonhunters, for a total of four people. Once formed, the party may not add or substitute other individuals. The party may not split between blinds and free-roam.
      • If the reservation holder chooses an assigned site (blind) or assigned pond and they have a guest who has not arrived yet, the reservation holder may request to have this person join them at their assigned 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 their 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, they will be advised to choose an assigned site or assigned pond. Hunters may not split between blinds and free-roam.
    5. 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.
  2. LOTTERY (Vacancy Draw) - daily admission procedures:
    1. Processing begins after reservation holders have been admitted.
    2. 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.
      • If a lottery cardholder does not show up on the morning of the hunt, the other hunters on the back of the card are still eligible to hunt.
      • 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. 
    3. A lottery purge will occur at 8:00 am and the names of those hunters who are not present will be removed from the list.
  3. FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED - daily admission procedures:
    1. After all reservation and lottery number holders have been processed, hunters may enter on a first-come, first-served system.
    2. No entry permits will be issued after 3:00pm on the hunt day.

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
  • Special Hours: for the Special Monday Pheasant Hunt, the Check Stations at Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa will have special hours - see our Special Hunts page for more information.
  • Entry: all hunters and non-hunters must obtain an entry permit from the check station before entering the hunt area. See the Admissions section, above, for information about other passes and licenses needed for hunting.
  • Overnight Parking: is allowed in the check station parking lots. You must stay inside your vehicle/RV. Trailers are allowed, but free-standing tents are not allowed.
  • Fires: no open flames are permitted, but you can have a portable gas stove.
  • What time should you arrive?  See our Admissions Summary Table, below, for information on what time the lotteries are held, what time reservation-holders are called in the morning, and what time lottery-holders are called in the morning. First-come first-serve and refills end at 3:00pm - no entry permits will be issued after this time.
  • What time do you need to vacate?  All hunters are required to check out at the check station, report hunting results, return their permits, and vacate the refuge no later than 1.5 hours after the end of shoot time. Hunters don't need to vacate the refuge if they are participating in an overnight stay on Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday nights.

Admissions Summary Table by Refuge

This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs. Visit our Sacramento River NWR Hunting page for information about hunting on the Sacramento River. 

Admissions Summary for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa, and Sutter NWRs 
InformationSacramento NWRDelevan NWRColusa NWRSutter NWR
Reservation Capacity4 individuals per reservation4 individuals per reservation4 individuals per reservation4 individuals per reservation
Lottery (Vacancy Draw) Capacity4 people per card4 people per card4 people per card4 people per card
First-come, 
first-serve		Each person has to be present to receive a number. However, adults can get a number for a junior hunter. Each person has to be present to receive a number. However, adults can get a number for a junior hunter. Each person has to be present to receive a number. However, adults can get a number for a junior hunter. Each person has to be present to receive a number. However, adults can get a number for a junior hunter. 
Adult to 
Junior ratio		No more than 2 junior hunters or 2 non-shooters or 1 of each per adult.No more than 2 junior hunters or 2 non-shooters or 1 of each per adult.No more than 2 junior hunters or 2 non-shooters or 1 of each per adult.No more than 2 junior hunters or 2 non-shooters or 1 of each per adult.
What time
is the
Lottery (Vacancy Draw)?		6-8pm the night before6-8pm the night before6-8pm the night before6-8pm the night before
What time does 
Check Station 
begin calling 
reservations?		2.5 hours before shoot time2.5 hours before shoot time2 hours before shoot time2 hours before shoot time
What time does 
Check Station 
begin calling Mobility-Impaired
reservations?		2.5 hours-1.5 hours before shoot time. 

More information on our Mobility-Impaired Methods of Entry & Daily Processing page.		2.5-1.5 hours before shoot time. 

More information on our Mobility-Impaired Methods of Entry & Daily Processing page.		2 hours-1 hour before shoot time.

More information on our Mobility-Impaired Methods of Entry & Daily Processing page.		2 hours-1 hour before shoot time.

More information on our Mobility-Impaired Methods of Entry & Daily Processing page.
What time does
Check Station
begin calling
lottery #s?		1½ hours before shoot time1½ hours before shoot time1 hour before shoot time1 hour before shoot time
What is the latest time I can be issued an entry permit?3:00 pm3:00 pm3:00 pm3:00 pm
# of Reservations 
drawn (when fully flooded)		 59 + 4 mobility-impaired39 + 3 mobility-impaired23 + 2 mobility-impaired17 + 1 mobility-impaired
# Assigned Blinds (when fully flooded)26 + 3 mobility-impaired
 		15 + 3 mobility-impaired 
 		--
# Assigned Ponds (when fully flooded)20 + 1 mobility-impaired (has a blind)10 + 1 junior10 + 2 mobility-impaired (have blinds) + 1 junior11 + 1 mobility-impaired (has a blind)
Free roam hunting
quotas (when 
fully flooded)		5425 west
25 east		14 west
34 east		25

Maps and Directions

Please visit our Sacramento NWR Complex Maps and Directions page to find Hunt Area maps and directional maps/written directions to the Hunter Check Stations.

Hunt Area Rules and Regulations

Sacramento NWR Complex Special Regulations

This information is specific for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs. Visit our Sacramento River NWR Hunting page for information specific to hunting on the Sacramento River. Find out more about permitted/prohibited activities on the Sacramento NWR Complex in the Rules and Policies section of our Laws and Regulations page.

Hunt Area Rules and Regulations:

  • Parking and Drop-off: 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 for mobility impaired hunters.
  • Hunt Area Access:  Hunters may only enter or exit the hunt area from designated parking areas.
  • Assigned Blinds:  Hunters in assigned hunting blinds are restricted to hunting within a 100 foot radius of the blind, except to retrieve birds.
  • Assigned Ponds:  Hunters in assigned ponds (AP) are restricted to the area within the signed AP boundary. Hunting from levees is not permitted.
  • 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.
  • Firearms:  Loaded firearms are prohibited in parking areas. Shooting from or across parking areas, safety zones and access roads is prohibited. No shot guns larger than 12-gauge and no shot size larger than BB, except steel “T” (.20” diameter), are permitted. Rifles, handguns and archery equipment are not allowed.
  • Ammunition:  Hunters may possess not more than 25 federally approved nontoxic shotgun shells after leaving the parking area. Approved nontoxic shot is required on all refuges. No shot shell larger than 12 gauge and no shot size larger than T is permitted. Weapons must be unloaded (no ammunition in the magazine or chamber) when in a vehicle or walking to/from a hunt area.
  • 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.
  • Electronic Decoys:  From the start of waterfowl season through November 30, electronic or mechanically-operated spinning blade devices or decoys are prohibited. Wind-powered spinning-wing decoys are allowed.
  • Dogs:  In the parking areas (including the check station parking area), dogs must be kept in vehicles or on a leash. Dogs are allowed off-leash only while hunting and under the control of their owner. Please visit the Information for Dog Owners section, below, for additional information.
  • Littering and Fires:  Please take your trash with you when you leave; littering is unlawful and can be fined. Open fires are prohibited.
  • Bicycles:  Access to the hunt area is by foot only. Bicycles and other conveyances are not permitted. Exception: permitted ATV use for mobility impaired hunters only at certain sites of Sacramento and Delevan NWRs. See "ATV Use (Sacramento and Delevan NWRs only)" under Accommodations.
  • 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.  See the Safety Tips section and the Incident Reporting section below for additional information.
  • More Rules and Regulations:  Find more about permitted/prohibited activities in the Rules and Policies section of our Laws and Regulations page.

Pheasant Regulations

  • Pheasant hunting is permitted in the free-roam and pheasant-only areas of Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa, and Sutter NWRs on regular hunt days (Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays) from 8:00am - sunset, concurrent with established CDFW pheasant hunting season.
  • Pheasant hunting is not permitted in the Assigned Blind/Assigned Pond areas, except during the Special Monday Pheasant Hunt on Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs (see Special Hunts page for more information).
  • Required Licenses/Validations/Passes: California Hunting License, Upland Game Bird Validation (not required for junior hunters), Prepaid Type A Pass for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs (not required for junior hunters). Type A Pass is not required for Sacramento River NWR.
  • Admission: you can enter via 1) reservation, 2) lottery (vacancy draw) or 3) first-come-first-serve (see Admissions section above), but need to keep in mind that shoot time for pheasants does not start until 8:00am.  You may apply for a 'waterfowl reservation' to hunt pheasants on any waterfowl hunting day, but will have to arrive at 2 1/2 hours prior to waterfowl shoot time on Sacramento/Delevan and 2 hours prior to waterfowl shoot time on Colusa/Sutter when reservations are admitted, even though pheasant shoot time doesn't start until 8:00am.  You may also enter the lottery the night before any waterfowl hunting day, but will have to arrive 1 1/2 hours prior to waterfowl shoot time on Sacramento/Delevan and 1 hour prior to waterfowl shoot time on Colusa/Sutter when lottery holders are admitted, even though pheasant shoot time doesn't start until 8:00am.  You may also enter as a first-come first-serve on the waterfowl hunt day.
  • Sacramento River: Pheasant hunting is permitted on various units of the Sacramento River NWR concurrent with established CDFW pheasant hunting season - please review our Sacramento River NWR Hunting page for more information. The Sacramento River NWR is a Type-C Area, meaning there are no check stations and a Type-A pass is not needed.

Turkey Regulations

  • 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 from 8:00am - sunset, concurrent with established CDFW fall turkey hunting season.
  • Fall turkey hunting is NOT permitted in the Assigned Blind/Assigned Pond areas of Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs.
  • Required Licenses/Validations/Passes:  California Hunting License, Upland Game Bird Validation (not required for junior hunters), Prepaid Type A Pass for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs (not required for junior hunters).  Type A Pass is not required for Sacramento River NWR.
  • Sacramento River: 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.  The Sacramento River NWR is a Type-C Area (no check stations and no Type-A pass needed).
  • 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.

Whitefront Regulations: Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (specific to the tule greater white-fronted goose)

  • 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.
Map showing Interstate 5 and CA State routes 162 and 45 along with Hahn/Grimes-Arbuckle Road as boundaries of the Special Area which includes Sacramento, Delevan, and Colusa NWRs.
Map of the Sacramento Valley Goose Closure Area. See California Department of Fish & Game's current regulations for more detailed information.
https://wildlife.ca.gov/Regulations
  • 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 spend 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 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.
  • How are Tule white-fronts different?
    • There are two subspecies of white-fronted geese (AKA specklebellies) that spend 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, 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.
Two grey geese with orange feet and similar markings are held up by biologists for comparison. The goose on the left is somewhat smaller than the one on the right.
On the left is an adult Pacific white-fronted goose while on the right is an adult tule white-fronted goose.

Bag Limits, Shoot Times, Seasons and Hunt Results

  • California Regulations:
  • California Weekly Hunt Results: CDFW's Weekly Waterfowl Hunt Results webpage  
    • FYI: The State typically calculates their hunt week as Wednesday-Sunday, so it can take a few days after the conclusion of hunting on Sundays to compile and post results from across the state. This information is not available by calling the Refuge Complex. Staff at the Refuge Complex have access to the weekly hunt results at the same time as the general public when it's posted on CDFW's website, not before, and we will direct callers to the State's webpage.

Hunting Seasons and Bag Limit Summary Table (for Sacramento NWR Complex)

The following information is copied from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Hunting Season and Bag Limit Regulations. Please refer to CDFW's Species-specific Regulations directly as the primary source of information.

2026-2027 Sacramento NWR Complex - Hunting Seasons and Bag Limit Summary Table - species not listed below are closed to hunting on Sacramento NWR Complex
Refuge 
(see KEY, below)		Species/SeasonDates (copied from CDFW Regulations)Daily Bag and Possession Limits (copied from CDFW Regulations)
RIVDeer – Archery
(Zone C4*, A-1 Tag)
*includes all of, or only portions of, La Barranca, Todd Island, Mooney, Ohm, Flynn, Heron Island, Rio Vista, Foster Island, Pine Creek, Capay, Phelan Island, Jacinto, Dean Man’s Reach, South Ord, Llano Seco Islands 1&2 and Sul Norte Units		August 15 – August 30, 2026One buck, forked horn or better per tag
RIVDeer – Archery
(Zone D3*)
*includes all of, or only portions of, Afton, Codora (juniors only on weekends only), Drumheller and Bogg’s Bend Units		August 15 – September 6, 2026One buck, forked horn or better per tag
RIVDeer – General 
(Zone C4*)		September 19 – October 4, 2026One buck, forked horn or better per tag
RIVDeer – General 
(Zone D3*)		September 26 – November 1, 2026One buck, forked horn or better per tag
RIVDeer – G1 Late Season 
(Zone C4*) 		October 24 – November 1, 2026One buck, forked horn or better per tag
RIVWild PigYear-roundNo daily bag or possession limit
RIVWaterfowl – Early Resident Canada GeeseOctober 3 -  October 5, 202610 large Canada geese per day; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
SAC, DEL, CLS, SUT, RIVWaterfowl – Ducks

October 24, 2026 – January 31, 2027

Except Scaup = November 7, 2026 – January 31, 2027

7 per day - see KEY below; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
SAC, DEL, CLS, SUT, RIVWaterfowl – Geese

October 24, 2026 – January 31, 2027

Except white-fronted geese in the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area:  October 24 – December 21 and during post-season Youth Hunt (see KEY below)

30 per day - see KEY below; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
RIVWaterfowl – Late Season Geese

Canada geese:  February 20 – 21, 2027
White-fronts and white geese:  February 20 – 24, 2027

Type A Hunt Areas (Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs) are closed to late season goose hunting

30 per day - see KEY below; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
SAC, DEL, CLS, SUT, RIVAmerican Coot and Common MoorhenOctober 24, 2026 – January 31, 202725 per day; 
75 in possession
SAC, DEL, CLS, SUT, RIVSnipe

October 17, 2026 – January 31, 2027

Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs do not open until October 24

8 per day; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
RIV

Quail – General

Zone Q1: includes Tehama, Glenn and Butte Counties. 
Zone Q3: includes Colusa and Sutter Counties.

October 17, 2026 – January 31, 202710 per day; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
RIVQuail – Archery OnlyAugust 15 - September 4, 202610 per day; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
SAC, DEL, CLS, SUT, RIVPheasant – GeneralNovember 14 – December 27, 20262 males per day for first two days of the season and 3 males per day thereafter; possession triple the daily bag limit
RIVPheasant –  Archery Only

October 10 – November 1 and

December 28, 2026- January 24, 2027

2 pheasants per day for first two days of the season and 3 pheasants per day thereafter, with not more than 1 female per day; 
possession triple the daily bag limit
RIVDove

September 1 - 15 and 
November 14 - December 28, 2026 (mourning, white-winged, spotted, and ringed turtle)

All Year (Eurasian collared)

15 per day of which no more than 10 may be white-winged doves; 
possession triple the daily bag limit

no limit on spotted, ringed turtle and Eurasian collared

SAC, DEL, CLS, SUT, RIVTurkey – FallNovember 14– December 13, 20261 either sex; 2 per season
RIVTurkey – General SpringMarch 27 – May 2, 20271 bearded per day;
3 bearded per spring season
RIVTurkey – Spring - Juniors Only

March 20 – March 21 and

May 3 – May 16, 2027

1 bearded per day;
3 bearded per spring season
RIVTurkey – Spring – Archery Only May 3 – May 16, 20271 bearded per day;
3 bearded per spring season

KEY:

  • SAC = Sacramento NWR Hunt Area
  • DEL = Delevan NWR Hunt Area
  • CLS = Colusa NWR Hunt Area
  • SUT = Sutter NWR Hunt Area
  • RIV = Sacramento River NWR. Areas open to hunting include all, or only part of, the following units (see brochures): 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 Islands 1 and 2, Sul Norte, Codora (juniors only on weekends only), Afton, Drumheller North, Drumheller Slough and Bogg’s Bend. 
  • Duck Bag Limit = 7 per day, which may include:  7 mallards (no more than 2 females), 3 pintail, 2 canvasback, 2 redhead, 2 scaup (season is November 7, 2026 – January 31, 2027). Possession limit is triple the daily bag.
  • Goose Bag Limit = 30 per day, which may include:  20 white geese and 10 dark geese, but not more than 6 white-fronted geese EXCEPT in the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs) where only 3 white-fronted geese may be taken (season is October 24 – December 21, 2026, plus post-season Youth Hunt). Possession limit is triple the daily bag.
  • Special Hunt Dates:
    • Special Pheasant Monday Hunt:  Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs = November 16, 2026
    • In-Season Junior Hunts (18 or younger):  Sacramento NWR = December 19, 2026; Delevan NWR = December 12, 2026 
    • Post-season Youth Hunt (17 or younger):  Sacramento, Delevan and Colusa NWRs = February 13 – February 14, 2027; Sutter NWR = February 14, 2027; same duck and goose bag limits as regular season, including 3 white-fronted geese in the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area. 
    • Post-season Veteran and Active Military Hunt:  Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs = February 6 – February 7, 2027; same duck bag limits as regular season, closed to all goose hunting. 
    • Special Veteran Hunt: Colusa NWR = January 2, 2027 (offered by California Waterfowl)

Deer Hunting Resources:

Frequently Asked Questions and Safety Information

Hunt Area Admission Questions:

 for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs:

  • How do I apply to get a hunting spot? Please review the information in our Hunt Area Admission section, above.
  • What kinds of Fees and Passes do I need to know about? Please review the information in our Licenses, Validations and Passes section, above.
  • Does my non-hunting guest need a Type-A Pass?  No, a non-hunting guest is not required to purchase a Type-A Pass for entrance.
  • How many people can be on a reservation/lottery?  It depends on who they are and what they're doing. See the Admissions Summary Table, above.
  • What time do I need to be at the Check Station?  Please review the information in our Admissions Summary Table, above.
  • How late can I get there (to the check station) and still have my reservation be valid? 
    • Sacramento and Delevan NWRs: reservations must be presented no later than 1.5 hours. before shoot time. 
    • Colusa and Sutter NWRs - reservations must be presented no later than 1 hour before shoot time.  
    • Additional information for each refuge is in our Admissions Summary Table, above.
  • What time is the Lottery (Vacancy Draw)?  - 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 Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday.
    • Lottery numbers are drawn and posted after 8:00 pm Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. 
  • Do I need to be present during the Lottery (Vacancy Draw)?  No
  • Do all members of my hunting party need to be present to put in for the Lottery (Vacancy Draw)?  No. One person from your hunting party can put everyone into the lottery, as long as they have everyone's hunting info (name, Go ID #s, vehicle license plate).
  • Can I put in for the Lottery (Vacancy Draw) at more than one refuge?   No - hunters are permitted to enter only one lottery for one Type A wildlife area each Tuesday/Friday/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. AKA a hunter's name can show up in one lottery once per hunt day.
    • 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.
  • When is the Lottery (Vacancy Draw) list purged?   A lottery purge (purge = a point at which hunters who have a Lottery #, but are not present, are removed from the list) will be conducted at 8:00 a.m. the morning of the hunt by check station personnel.
  • How low do I need to be on the Lottery (Vacancy Draw) to get in to hunt?  It varies! Some days if you are #150 you can get on to hunt, but every day is different. The lottery purge eliminates many hunters, which provides more opportunities.
  • Can I bring a non-hunter with me? Yes, up to 2 non-hunters per adult hunter. Non-hunters count towards the party total of 4.
  • When do they stop hunter refills? How late can I get on to hunt?  No entry permits are issued after 3:00 p.m.
  • What if I have questions about the Online License System or my waterfowl license?  Check CDFW website for answers to common questions, as the refuge does not sell licenses.
  • What blind, assigned pond, or free roam area should I hunt?  Every day and every hunter is different! Each day brings different weather, different waterfowl, and different hunters with different skills and abilities. 
    • We recommend determining what refuge you want to hunt and what type of area is right for you (blind, assigned pond, or free roam). 
    • Hunt Area Descriptions, past Hunt Results, and aerial maps of the hunt areas are posted at the check stations. Please go to the check station early and talk with other hunters or the check station staff, who are willing to help you find a great spot to hunt for the day.
  • What should I bring?  
    • 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 trained dog can 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).
  • What do I need to know for my first time?  Please review our Licenses, Validations, and Passes section, above, for what is required and where they can be purchased, and read through the Admissions section, above, to see how to gain entry onto the hunt areas.
  • Do I need chest waders?  Yes! Water levels can vary in every pond.
  • Can I stay overnight in the parking lot?  Yes. Hunters are permitted to stay in their personal vehicles or RVs in the check station parking lots overnight. No tents, alcohol or open flames are permitted. All vehicles and RVs must be removed at the end of the hunt day.
  • Can I cook in the parking lot?  Yes but no open flames (such as fire pits or charcoal). Please use propane or natural gas with a cover. This prevents wildfires and the need to dump hot charcoal.

Junior and Youth Hunter Questions:

Please visit the Junior/Youth Hunting page for detailed information.

Mobility Impaired Hunter Questions:

Please visit the Mobility Impaired Hunting page for detailed information.

Pheasant Hunting Questions:

  • What is the best method for admissions (reservations, lottery (vacancy draw), first-come, first-serve) if I only want to hunt pheasants? You cannot hunt pheasants until 8am, so lottery and first-come-first-serve are the best methods for admission.
  • Where can I hunt pheasants? 
    • Pheasant 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 during the designated pheasant hunting season. You many NOT hunt pheasants in the assigned pond or assigned blind areas except for on 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 every day during pheasant season (see the specific Units map for hunting details).
  • What passes do I need?  For Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRS, hunters will need a valid Type-A pass, license, and upland game validation. Please review our Hunt Area Admissions section for details and where to purchase what is needed. For Sacramento River NWR, this is a Type-C area and does not require an entrance pass.
  • Can I hunt pheasants and waterfowl?  Yes, as long as you check in with the check station first, are in free-roam, and have all the appropriate licenses and stamps.
  • When is Pheasant Monday and what are the rules?  Please visit the Special Hunts page.

Turkey Hunting Questions:

  • Can I hunt turkeys at Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa and Sutter NWRs?  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. Please review CDFW's regulations for dates, as they change annually.
  • Can I hunt turkeys at Sacramento River NWR?  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.
  • I've heard about a special spring turkey hunt, what is it?  Starting in 2020, a special Mentored Spring Turkey Hunt was developed at Sacramento and Delevan NWRs to connect with first-time hunters in the CDFW Hunting and Fishing Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (R3) program.  The Refuge does not administer this program.

Sacramento River NWR Hunting Questions:

  • Are there hunter check stations on the Sacramento River NWR?  No - there are not 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.
  • What species can I hunt on the Sacramento River NWR?  Please review the Sacramento River NWR - Hunting page for detailed information.
  • What types of firearms/ammunition can I use on the Sacramento River NWR?  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.
  • Can I use a deer stand or temporary blind on the Sacramento River NWR?  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 1.5 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). 
  • Are dogs allowed on the Sacramento River NWR?  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 wild pigs).
  • Can I camp on the Sacramento River NWR? 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 Information:

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:

  • Use caution and slow down so you have time to read the small road signs and to make safe turns.
  • Plan for additional driving time when there is foggy or rainy weather.
  • Before you begin driving, review driving directions, location maps, and GPS coordinates! Visit the Maps and Directions page for more information.

Reporting Accidents, Violations, and Incidents:

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

If you are on-refuge:

  1. Go in person to the refuge hunter check station to report accidents, violations and incidents. There is no phone number for the check stations.
  2. Call the refuge headquarters: 530-934-2801 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.).
  3. If you believe illegal take (killing) of federally protected wildlife is happening, call to report federal wildlife crimes 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477).
    1. We have more information specific to reporting federal wildlife crimes on our Law Enforcement page.

If you are off-refuge: 

  1. Call to report any wildlife violations to CalTip: 1-888-334-CalTip (1-888-334-2258). Leave message and an operator checks it frequently.
  2. Text "847411" and write "CALTIP [your message]" to submit anonymous tips to state wildlife officers. Learn more about CALTIP (Californians Turn in Poachers and Polluters).
  3. If you believe illegal take (killing) of federally protected wildlife is happening, call to report federal wildlife crimes 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477).
    1. We have more information specific to reporting federal wildlife crimes on our Law Enforcement page.

Information for Dog Owners

Canine Pythiosis:

The following information and more can be viewed at: http://pythiosis.com/

Canine Pythiosis Questions and Answers
QuestionAnswer
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 the 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 

Blue-Green Algae Bloom Questions and Answers
QuestionAnswer
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 http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/77118.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 the 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

Leptospirosis (Weil's Disease) Questions and Answers
QuestionAnswer
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.

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 the Comprehensive 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 (530-934-2801), 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 

Other Resources

  • 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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