All information provided within this FAQ applies to Cherokee Nation Citizens and is effective January 1, 2022.
Cherokee Nation tribal citizens are eligible to hunt and fish within the Cherokee Nation Reservation in accordance with tribal law, which requires a Cherokee Nation citizenship "blue" card or Cherokee Nation ID as a valid hunting and fishing license (subject to applicable trespassing laws and respect for private property rights). Individuals who are not Cherokee Citizens are eligible to hunt and fish within the reservation in accordance with state law; however, only members of the Cherokee Nation are allowed to hunt or fish on tribal lands.
Non-tribal citizens with a valid State of Oklahoma hunting and/or fishing license can hunt and fish within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation reservation in accordance with applicable law and with respect for private property rights. Access to Cherokee Nation tribal lands by non-tribal members is prohibited.
You will need proof of valid Cherokee Nation tribal citizenship, which should include your Cherokee Nation-issued Identification card or citizenship (“blue”) card. Additional forms of ID may be requested to confirm identity. In addition, Hunter Safety course completion is required for citizens under the age of 31. Citizens who have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, are currently on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or a member of the National Guard are exempt from the Hunter Safety requirement.
No, all Cherokee Nation citizens, regardless of residency, are permitted to hunt and fish on the Cherokee Nation Reservation in accordance with Cherokee Nation law.
Tribal citizens can hunt and/or fish within Cherokee Nation reservation boundaries utilizing their tribal ID as a hunting and fishing license. All applicable trespassing laws apply and will be enforced. The Wildlife Access Map outlines the Cherokee Nation Reservation as well as tribal-owned lands set aside for registered Cherokee Nation citizens to hunt and fish.
Currently, it is best to obtain a valid State of Oklahoma hunting and fishing license and follow applicable laws.
