DNR Sponsors Special Youth, Military, and Veteran Duck Hunting Events This Weekend

Waterfowl hunters are ready to head to their favorite wetland location for the Georgia duck hunting season when it opens on Sat., Nov. 18, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).

However, youth, active military, and veterans can take part in an early waterfowl hunt opportunity this weekend.

On these two days, youth ages 16 or younger OR 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 but only the youth may hunt.

Duck hunting season dates are Nov. 18-26 and Dec. 9 – Jan. 28.

Kara Nitschke, DNR migratory game bird biologist, said a significant change this year is that quota waterfowl hunts on Butler Island have been suspended for the 2023 season due to weather-related delays in scheduled repairs.

She added that hunters who had hoped for a Butler Island blind this season can use the Champney waterfowl hunts as an opportunity to explore some new public land spots.”

Full migratory bird hunting regulations can be found at GeorgiaWildlife.com/migratory-bird-info.

To hunt waterfowl in Georgia, you need a Georgia hunting license, a Georgia migratory bird license, and a federal duck stamp (now available when you purchase your other recreational licenses).

WRD has made your purchase decision even easier with the creation of the Waterfowl Hunter Package at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com, which includes all the licenses you need (and includes an attractive plastic license card).

For more information on waterfowl hunting, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/migratory-bird-inf.