Attention Non-Residents
The Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission adopted new rules in 2025 that require non-residents accessing certain Oklahoma public hunting and fishing areas to check in and out of the area. By checking in and out of these areas, hunters, anglers, shooters, birdwatchers, hikers and any other users can help the Wildlife Department better understand how the area is being used. There is no additional cost associated with checking in or out of an area. There is no limit to the number of check ins for an individual in a year.
Contacts
Area Details
For details on Washita NWR visit our partners with the USFWS:
All shotgun hunting is restricted to federally approved nontoxic shot.
Area closed to all activities for controlled deer hunts:
Oct. 10-11, 2025
Nov. 7-8, 2025
Nov. 11-12, 2025
Closed Seasons
Seasons w/ Special Restrictions
- Dove, Rabbit, Quail
Closed during controlled deer hunts. Contact the refuge for controlled hunt dates and special restrictions. Quail is closed to non-resident hunting February 1-15.
- Duck, Merganser and Coot
Only on designated days. Contact the refuge for designated days and special restrictions.
Apprentice Designation: A Learner's Permit for Hunting
Hunter education has greatly reduced hunting accidents, but if you can’t complete a course right away, the apprentice designation allows you to hunt under supervision. It works like a learner’s permit, giving you the chance to gain real experience safely until you finish hunter education.
Exploring the New Herron Family WMA
The new Herron Family WMA is more than 17,000 acres of hunting land, it is also adventure, access, conservation, and tradition. Thanks to a unique partnership, Oklahoma residents now have a new place to chase deer, call turkeys, hear quail, and pass on the outdoors to the next generation.