This information applies only to the Vermillion Highlands Research Recreation Area and WMA NOT the Vermillion River WMA/AMA. Please refer to the Vermillion River Complex reference map below for approximate WMA/AMA boundaries.
General:
Please do not block field access roads or gates when parking your vehicles.
Please respect the ongoing agricultural operations and do not interfere with such operations in any way.
Please do not trespass into areas delineated by fencing and marked "No Trespassing" such as the Gun Club.
Dogs must be on a leash except when being used for Vermillion Highlands Late Season Pheasant and Goose Hunting purposes.
2026 Spring Turkey Hunting
Spring Turkey hunting on Vermillion Highlands is permitted from April 15th through May 31st, 2026. No special use permit by the Vermillion River Complex Wildlife Office is required.
2026 Fall Turkey Hunting
NOTE: The WMA is NOT OPEN to Fall Turkey Hunting for 2026
2026 Special Deer Hunts
Archery Hunt (Hunt # 975)
Dates: September 19th through October 30th, 2026.
60 permits are available (application deadline August 14th, 2026)
All successful applicants will receive hunting permit upon completion of orientation packet.
To apply please complete this application: Archery Hunt online form
Shotgun and Muzzleloader special deer hunt applications will be handled through the Electronic Licensing System (ELS)
Shotgun Hunt (Hunt # 925)
Dates: November 7th through November 20th, 2026
20 permits are available (application deadline September 10th, 2026)
All successful applicants will receive hunting permit upon completion of orientation packet.
Muzzleloader Hunt (Hunt # 944)
Dates: November 28th through December 13th, 2026
20 permits are available (application deadline September 10th, 2026)
All successful applicants will receive hunting permit upon completion of orientation packet.
2026 Late season Pheasant and Goose Hunting
Pheasant and Goose hunting is permitted from December 14th through 20st, 2026.
2027 Fox/Coyote Hunt
Fox and Coyote hunting is allowed on the Vermillion Highlands WMA from January 1st, 2027 through March 15th, 2027, by permit only. A total of 30 permits will be available for this hunt on a first come first serve basis.
To apply, please complete this application: 2027 Fox/Coyote Hunt online form
Maps:
Vermillion River Complex Map (8 MB)
More Information:
Vermillion Highlands WMA Web page
Call the local Wildlife Area Office at 651-322-4643 with any questions.