Neosho Wildlife Area Hunting
During spring and fall, the number of migrant ducks
is most impressive, sometimes reaching 100,000 birds.
More than 60,000 ducks, primarily mallards, normally
spend the entire winter on the area.
Prior to the hunting seasons, the waterfowl hunting
areas (Pool 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and the South Unit) are
flooded with approximately two feet of water. Pool 3,
located in the refuge area remains flooded throughout
the year. All other pools are drained in the early spring.
Three of the fifteen pools are managed in a moist soil
environment through an annual water level manipulation
plan. Four green tree marshes ranging in size from
five to fifteen acres offer a different type of hunting
opportunity for the area sportsmen. Approximately 250
acres of corn, milo, and millet are planted in the pools
by area personnel.
In the waterfowl hunting areas, portable blinds may
be used or temporary blinds may be constructed of
native vegetation. These blinds must be removed within
10 days following the close of the waterfowl season.
No holes or pits may be dug for any purpose. Waterfowl
hunters may not shoot from dikes or roads.
Boats (except air boats) may be used for hunting but
must be removed within 10 days following the close of
the season
Waterfowl hunters must obtain a daily hunting permit
at the check station prior to beginning their hunt
and return the completed form at the end of their hunt.
The “South Unit” is closed to all waterfowl hunting at
1:00 P.M.. daily.
Pool 8 is restricted to waterfowl hunters accompanied
by a youth hunter, 16 years of age or less on weekends
and holidays. The adults may hunt with the youth
hunter.
In addition to waterfowl, other game may be hunted
in season The area affords good hunting for deer, quail,
rabbit, turkey, and squirrel. Hunters are cautioned to
use good sportsmanship and safe gun handling. These
are essential on public hunting areas where crowded
conditions exist at certain times.