Gifford Point WMA access permit applications accepted Aug. 1-15

People interested in hunting deer at Gifford Point Wildlife Management Area this fall may apply for access permits Aug. 1-15. Two hundred of these permits will be issued to allow hunters access to the area.

Applicants will need to purchase a valid deer permit and then provide their deer permit type and associated number on their application. 

The use of rimfire and centerfire rifles or handguns is prohibited at Gifford. Muzzleloaders are not allowed during the November firearm deer season.

The Gifford permit allows access to take deer with archery equipment from Sept. 1, 2023, through Jan. 15, 2024, and with a muzzleloader from Dec. 1, 2023, through Jan. 15, 2024, as specified by the deer permit. Successful applicants will be issued a combination for the lock to access the gate to the WMA. Only persons with a valid access authorization will be allowed on the area.

Deer hunters may apply as “buddies,” which ensures that both or neither will draw an access permit. Only two persons may apply as buddies and both apply on the same application. A buddy permit does not allow party hunting. Individuals must harvest his or her own animal.

Vehicle access will be limited to the rock road directly adjacent to the 8-foot-high deer fence on Educational Service Unit property. Only foot access to the interior of the area will be allowed.

Applications will be accepted at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission offices in Lincoln, Omaha and the Schramm Education Center near Gretna. Application forms also are available online at OutdoorNebraska.gov; search “Big game permits and applications.” If applications exceed 200, a drawing will be held.

Applicants will be notified of draw status via email, if provided, following the draw. Applicable permits are: Muzzleloader, Statewide Archery, Statewide Youth, or Antlerless Only Season Choice Wahoo.