Top Hunting Places in Fremont, California

When it comes to hunting opportunities in California, Fremont and the surrounding regions offer an incredible mix of terrains, ecosystems, and game species for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area, Fremont is ideally located for access to both coastal and inland hunting lands. From waterfowl-rich wetlands to rugged uplands ideal for deer and wild pigs, hunters in Fremont can explore diverse experiences just a short drive away.

Best Seasons and Permits for Fremont Hunters

Before heading out, hunters must be aware of California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations. Fremont hunters need the following:

• A valid California Hunting License
  
• Tags for specific species (deer, wild pigs, etc.)
  
• Upland Game Bird Stamp (for dove, pheasant, quail)
  
• State and Federal Duck Stamps (for waterfowl hunting)
  

Hunting seasons vary by species and region, with general deer season typically falling in late summer to early fall, while waterfowl hunting typically begins in October.

1. Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Located on the western edge of Fremont, this refuge offers limited, managed waterfowl hunting. While most of the refuge is protected for conservation, hunting is permitted in designated areas during the official season.

Key Highlights:

• Excellent for waterfowl hunting
  
• Requires reservation and adherence to strict regulations
  
• Nearby boat launch sites
  
• Opportunity to spot migratory birds and other wildlife
  

This location is especially popular for those targeting Northern Pintails, Mallards, and American Wigeons.

2. Sunol Regional Wilderness – Wild Pig Scouting

Though hunting is not permitted in Sunol itself, it serves as a strategic scouting and wildlife tracking region. Many hunters monitor pig movement patterns in the area due to its proximity to legal hunting zones.

Why It's Important:

• Ideal for pre-season tracking
  
• Observations can help for nearby hunts in private ranches
  
• Enhances understanding of local terrain and animal behavior
  

3. Grizzly Island Wildlife Area

Just over an hour’s drive from Fremont, this area in Solano County is a top pick for waterfowl hunters across the Bay Area.

What Makes It Stand Out:

• Known for diverse duck species and snow geese
  
• Rich marshland ecosystem
  
• Requires Type A wildlife area pass
  
• Popular among experienced hunters
  

Grizzly Island is also managed for youth and mobility-impaired hunters, offering accessible hunting opportunities for all.

4. Henry W. Coe State Park – Wild Boar and Deer Hunts

Located southeast of Fremont, Henry W. Coe is the largest state park in Northern California and is open to hunting during the general deer and pig hunting seasons in designated areas.

Popular Game:

• Wild pigs
  
• Black-tailed deer
  
• Occasional Wild Turkey sightings
  

With its rugged hills and deep canyons, this location offers a true backcountry hunt. Overnight camping is allowed, which makes it ideal for multi-day excursions.

5. Los Vaqueros Watershed – Limited Public Hunts

While Los Vaqueros typically prioritizes conservation, special wild pig hunting access is granted during designated periods. Located about 45 minutes from Fremont, it’s a hidden gem for those seeking low-pressure hunts.

Why Consider It:

• Lottery-based entry ensures light hunting pressure
• Abundant wild pig activity
  
• Panoramic landscapes and great scouting visibility
  

6. Lake Del Valle (Near Livermore) – Scouting and Nearby Private Hunts

While direct hunting isn’t allowed inside the park, many hunters use Lake Del Valle as a home base for private land hunts in nearby Livermore and Altamont.

Nearby Hunting Opportunities:

• Ranches offering guided wild pig hunts
  
• Upland game bird farms (pheasant and chukar)
  
• Ideal for family-friendly day trips
  

The area's mix of oak woodlands, grassy hills, and chaparral provides ideal cover for game.

7. Mendocino National Forest – Fremont Hunter’s Weekend Getaway

Approximately a 3-hour drive from Fremont, this massive national forest is a prime destination for deer and bear hunting. It’s the go-to place for seasoned hunters looking for a multi-day, off-the-grid experience.

Game You Can Hunt:

• Black bear
  
• Columbian black-tailed deer
  
• Wild turkey
  
• Small game
  

Its sheer size allows for varied habitat, from dense pine forests to high desert scrub, making it suitable for all hunting styles—from stalking to still hunting.

8. Private Ranches Near Hollister and Gilroy

South of Fremont, hunters can access well-managed ranches that offer guided wild pig hunts. These hunts are especially attractive to those wanting a higher success rate without competing in public lands.

Perks of Private Land Hunts:

• Guided or semi-guided options
  
• Meals and lodging included in some packages
  
• Guaranteed access to prime habitat
  
• Ideal for beginners or time-constrained hunters
  

Look for ranches such as Tejon Ranch, Laguna Mountain, or Bitterwater Outfitters.

9. Tule Elk Hunts – Controlled and Competitive

While not common around Fremont, the Tule Elk population in Central California is growing, and tags are available through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) draw system. Hunters interested in a trophy-level challenge often enter the lottery years in advance.

Tag Zones Within Reach:

• Grizzly Island (for archery and rifle)
  
• La Panza Zone
  
• Cache Creek Herd
  

This is a bucket-list hunt for many California big-game hunters due to their exclusivity and majestic landscapes.

10. Diablo Range – Upland Game and Pig

East of Fremont, this mountain range spans several counties and hosts both public and private lands with hunting access.

Key Species:

• California Quail and Mourning Dove
  
• Wild pigs
  
• Occasional bobcat sightings
  

Sections of the range fall under the CDFW Lands Pass Program, which allows hunters to access specific zones with a pass. Be sure to check for local road closures and fire restrictions.

Essential Gear for Fremont Hunting Expeditions

To succeed in Fremont-area hunts, gear matters. Be prepared with:

• Weather-appropriate camouflage
  
• Waterproof boots (especially for marshlands)
  
• Quality optics (binoculars and spotting scopes)
  
• Reliable GPS or the OnX Hunt app
  
• Ammunition compliant with California’s non-lead regulations
  
• Scent control kits for deer and pig hunting
  
• Game calls and decoys for ducks and upland birds
  

Also, ensure you have all your licenses and tags on hand in digital or physical form.

Final Tips for Hunting in and Around Fremont

• Always check CDFW regulations before every hunt
  
• Respect private property boundaries
  
• Scout early and often to increase your chances of success
  
• Consider joining local hunting clubs for access and community
  
• Practice safe firearm handling and ethical harvesting
  

Fremont may not appear to be a hunting destination at first glance, but it serves as an ideal launchpad for some of California’s top public and private hunting lands.