Georgia duck hunting season opens soon

Waterfowl hunters will soon be able to return to their favorite spots as Georgia’s duck season kicks off Nov. 22, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) confirmed.

Additionally, youth, active-duty military, and veterans can enjoy a special early hunting opportunity Nov. 15-16.

On these two days, youth ages 15 or younger, active military, or veterans may hunt specific migratory birds, such as ducks, Canada geese, and mergansers.

Youth must be accompanied by an adult of at least 18 years of age; however, only the youth can actively hunt.

“This year, there are no significant changes to season lengths or bag limits for the regular waterfowl season,” GADNR migratory gamebird biologist Kara Nitschke said.

“But be sure to consult the regulations, either online or in the popular guide, for species-specific daily bag limits,” she added. “And always be sure to check whether you’ve harvested a banded bird. Band data is crucial to ensure the maximum possible harvest opportunity can be offered.”

Duck hunting season dates are Nov. 22-30 and Dec. 6 to Jan. 25, 2026, with full migratory bird hunting regulations available online at GeorgiaWildlife.com/migratory-bird-info.

To hunt waterfowl in Georgia, you need a Georgia hunting license, a Georgia migratory bird license, and the federal duck stamp. The Waterfowl Hunter Package at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com includes all licenses required (and includes an attractive plastic license hard card).

For more information on waterfowl hunting in Georgia, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/migratory-bird-info.