Most folks think of California’s Central Valley as duck country. And they’re not wrong. The Los Banos and North Grasslands Wildlife Areas have long been known for waterfowl: flooded fields, duck blinds, and late-season limits. But this fall, there’s a new reason to lace up your boots and grab your bow.
For the first time, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is opening select parts of these wildlife areas to archery deer hunting. It’s a small shift, sure — just a few limited hunts by reservation only — but for public land hunters in A Zone, it’s a welcome move.
What’s New?
Starting this season, CDFW will allow archery-only deer hunts in designated zones within Los Banos and North Grasslands. These hunts fall within the A Zone season and will be held on specific dates. Access is controlled by reservation. No drop-ins or day-of walk-ons. If you want in, you’ll need to plan ahead and apply through the CDFW reservation system.
Not all units are open. Only select areas are being tested for deer access. These hunts are part of a larger effort to balance habitat management with hunter opportunity. According to CDFW, this move supports both species control and wildlife area use.
Why It Matters
Public land archery hunting is tough to come by in California, especially in the Central Valley. Most of the state’s deer hunting pressure is focused on national forests and private ranches. Adding even a few archery slots in managed wildlife areas is a nod to bowhunters who’ve long been asking for more access.
It also helps break the idea that these refuges are just for ducks. Sure, that’s their bread and butter. But deer, pigs, and other game use these landscapes too. Carefully managed hunting can be a tool — not just for recreation, but for conservation.
What You Need to Know
- Apply Early: All hunts are by reservation through CDFW’s online system. No over-the-counter access.
- Archery Only: No firearms. Bring your bow, know your range, and scout smart.
- Respect the Rules: These are multi-use areas with tight regulations. Stay on marked trails, follow access hours, and don’t ruin it for the next hunter.
- Do Your Homework: The areas aren’t big. Know where you’re going. Bring a map, check boundaries, and understand the terrain.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t a major expansion of deer hunting. But it’s a solid start. California needs more opportunities like this. Tightly managed. Thoughtfully planned. Open to regular folks who want to hunt right. If you’re an A Zone archer, this fall might be your chance to do something different. Quiet mornings, short stalks, and the chance to draw back on public land. Not a bad way to spend a weekend.
