Most of North Carolina's wintering tundra swans can be found at and near Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. Hunters also find a great variety of ducks at the refuge, including green-winged teal, gadwall, black duck, ring-necked duck and ruddy duck. Lake Mattamuskeet, the largest lake in North Carolina, encompasses about 40,000 acres of the 50,000-acre refuge. The refuge also provides quality public hunting of white-tailed deer.

Permits are required to hunt at the refuge. Beginning in 2026, refuge permits and lotteries will be administered through Recreation.gov. Registration will soon be available at Recreation.gov. 

For current information on hunting dates and procedures, see the hunting regulations brochure or contact the refuge headquarters.

Types of Hunts

September Canada Goose Hunt
Before the general waterfowl season, hunters can purchase a permit to hunt resident Canada geese during the September season. This hunt was created to help control the population of resident Canada geese at the refuge.

Deer Hunts
The refuge offers two two-day deer hunts in October.

Late Season Waterfowl Hunts
Regular season waterfowl hunts are scheduled as two consecutive day hunts during the late-season months. Waterfowl hunts are issued by lottery, and hunters are assigned a blind prior to their hunt days. One of the 16 waterfowl blinds accommodates hunters with disabilities.

Refuge Hunt Fees

There is a $15 fee per person, per hunt. Fees are paid through Recreation.gov. 

Blind Assignments

Please see the files below for blind assignments. Blind assignments will be posted in late November or early December each year.