Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, along the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, is one of the few public hunting spots near New Orleans between Mandeville and Slidell in St. Tammany Parish. The refuge provides unique waterfowl, small game, and deer (archery only) hunting opportunities. Hunting access is by foot or boat. The non-motorized launch at Sapsucker Rd. is a good way to access secluded marshes in the refuge’s interior.