Cherokee Nation Wildlife Conservation Department is tasked with the preservation of wildlife across the reservation. The department implements programs to promote fishing and hunting for tribal citizens, including annual draw hunts at the Sequoyah Hunting preserve.
As you may be aware, Governor Kevin Stitt has rejected any extension of the existing hunting and fishing compact between the Cherokee Nation and the State of Oklahoma. The compact, which has been in place since 2016, will end December 31, 2021. Although the Governor’s decision is disappointing, Cherokee Nation citizens retain treaty reserved hunting and fishing rights within our reservation in northeastern Oklahoma.
After January 1, 2022, the Cherokee Nation Game and Fish Code (Title 29) will continue to apply within the Cherokee Nation reservation boundaries. In an effort to answer questions, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions, available here. If you have a question that is not addressed the FAQs, please reach out to our office via email: wildlife@cherokee.org
Wildlife Conservation Resources: