Hunt Permits
Most hunts at the Trinity River refuge require a state draw permit
Four of the five hunt types at Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge require a state draw permit — you must apply and be selected, not just show up.
The Trinity River NWR has five hunt types across its seven properties: archery, upland game, general gun, muzzleloader, and waterfowl. Four of them — archery, upland game, general gun, and muzzleloader — go through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) public hunt drawing. You apply during set windows. You may not get a permit every year. It is a competitive process.
The waterfowl hunt at Champion Lake works differently. The refuge office handles it directly — not through the TPWD draw. Before you plan a trip, check both the TPWD public hunt drawing page and the refuge website. Look for current application windows, fees, and rules. Do not show up expecting walk-in access for the four draw hunts.
Source to confirm: Trinity River NWR — Hunting