Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Hunt Permit

Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge offers excellent hunting for deer, very good hunting for quail and rabbits, and opportunities for raccoons, ducks, opossums, woodcocks, squirrels, rails, and snipe. The refuge also allows the take of feral hogs in most areas. More than 100,000 acres of the refuge are open to hunting. The vast majority of the refuge is pocosin, a type of wetland with a dense shrub layer. For newcomers to the Refuge, the impenetrable vegetation and remoteness often catch them unaware. First time hunters should consult with a Refuge staff member or another hunter before venturing off the beaten path. Other habitats on the refuge include marshes, mixed hardwoods, and swamp forest. While some refuge roads are gravel, many, particularly those on the Pungo Unit, are dirt or grass and can become impassable during wet periods. 170 miles of unimproved roads across the refuge are closed to vehicles, but open to walking and bicycling for hunting. In addition, three roads are designated ATV routes for hunters during the hunting season only. Permit Requirements All hunters on the refuge must be in possession of digital or physical copies of the following: 1) a refuge seasonal hunting permit, purchased below; 2) a valid state hunting license and any other required state permits; and 3) a signed, current refuge hunting regulations brochure, found on the refuge website.