It is superimposed on the irrigation reservoir managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Flathead Irrigation Project. Pablo National Wildlife Refuge is 2,500 acres of water, marsh, and upland grassland. The refuge provides nesting and resting areas for migratory birds and other wildlife. Shaped by glacial activity approximately 12,000 years ago, the terrain surrounding Pablo NWR is rolling and interspersed with many pothole wetlands. Visitor Opportunities Fishing is permitted on Pablo NWR in accordance with applicable State, Federal, and Tribal regulations.
Ice fishing is permitted after the waterfowl hunting season has ended and the refuge reopens.
Photography and wildlife observation are encouraged. Waterfowl numbers vary throughout the year. Nesting begins in late March and lasts through July. The most numerous nesting species are Canada geese, mallards, and redheads. Pintail, American widgeon, shoveler, blue and green-winged teal, ruddy duck, gadwall, common merganser, and coot are also present.