Duck Season 2026–27 — Season Preview

What to Expect for 2026–27

The 2026–27 waterfowl season framework process follows a predictable annual calendar. The USFWS Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey occurs in May and early June. Results are typically published in late July as the "Waterfowl Population Status" report. Draft frameworks are published in June, followed by a 30-day public comment period. Final USFWS frameworks are typically published in late July or early August, and individual states finalize their specific zones and season structures by September.

The USFWS uses four management frameworks: Liberal (most hunting days, highest bag limits), Moderate, Restrictive, and Very Restrictive. For most of the past decade, the Liberal framework has been in effect, driven by strong mallard breeding populations in the Prairie Pothole Region. Drought conditions in the Dakotas and southern Canada can shift the framework to Moderate or Restrictive — reducing season lengths and bag limits.

Species with specific sub-limits — pintail, canvasback, and redhead — are managed separately from the aggregate limit and can change year-to-year based on species-specific population surveys. Watch for the USFWS Population Status report in July 2026 for the first indicators of what the 2026–27 season will look like.