During the 2025-26 season, hunters can download the hunt brochure from below. As outlined in the brochure, hunters must also contact the Refuge Headquarters Office via email ([email protected]) or phone (239-350-3570) to obtain their official permit number. The Refuge Headquarters Office is open M-F 8am-4:00pm (excluding Federal Holidays).
Possession of the signed brochure and official permit number are required for all individuals when hunting.
The Ten Thousand Islands NWR protects habitat for some of the most unique species on the continent, including endangered manatees, wood storks and sea turtles. This interesting habitat, consisting of small islands interlaced with small coastal waters also draws blue-winged teal, mottled ducks, ring-necked ducks, and other species each fall. About 4,000 acres are open to hunting, hunt areas are accessible from three water trails (Trail 1, 3 and 4) off the South side of US 41. Canoes or johnboats with a 25-horsepoer or less motor provide the best access to hunting locations. Taking time to learn the refuge is important for success as only a small number of ducks use the hunting areas.
Upwards of 50% of the historical marshes that once occurred in the Ten Thousand Islands Region have been lost in the last 75 years (mainly due to mangrove forest expansion), and hunter numbers have significantly increased since the Refuge was first established.
We are continuing to collect and compare hunter harvest data over time to determine future management needs. We are asking all hunters to collect waterfowl information on each hunt day and at the end of the season, complete the Hunter Harvest Report form and submit via email to [email protected] by March 1, 2026.
