Duck Season Opens in Texas: Hunters Gear Up for Action

Hunters in Texas are preparing for the opening day of the 2025-2026 duck season, which begins on Saturday, November 8, 2025, in the North Zone. The season is divided into two distinct parts. The first segment will run from November 8 to November 30, followed by a second segment from December 6 to January 25, 2026. In total, hunters can expect a robust 74 days of duck hunting, including approximately 30 days after Christmas.

Understanding the regulations is crucial for both seasoned hunters and newcomers. Texas is divided into three waterfowl zones: the North Zone, South Zone, and the High Plains Mallard Management Unit (HPMMU). The HPMMU encompasses areas west of US Highway 77, stretching from the Mexican border to San Angelo and beyond. The South Zone covers everything south of Interstate 10, while the North Zone includes the areas east and north of the other two zones.

Key Regulations and Bag Limits

For those venturing into the field, it is important to familiarize oneself with the updated bag limits for the season. The overall limit remains at six birds, but there are changes that hunters should note. This season allows for three pintails, a welcomed increase, along with the following breakdown:

– Five mallards (only two may be hens)
– Three wood ducks
– Three pintails
– Two redheads
– Two canvasbacks
– One scaup
– One “dusky” duck (including mottled ducks, Mexican ducks, black ducks, and their hybrids, which are closed for the first five days of the season in each zone)
– Six birds of any other species not listed

Hunters must ensure they have the necessary permits before heading out. This includes an annual hunting license, the Texas Migratory Gamebird Stamp Endorsement, a valid Federal Duck Stamp, and the Harvest Information Program (H.I.P.) Certification. The H.I.P. requires hunters to answer questions about their migratory bird harvest from the previous year, which aids biologists with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in estimating bird populations and adjusting limits as necessary.

Current Conditions and Hunting Locations

Recent weather developments have positively impacted duck populations in the region. A cold front that swept through on October 28 brought in numerous ducks and geese, particularly to the Panhandle and playa lakes. As hunters prepare for opening day, locations such as Toledo Bend and Lake Fork are expected to attract sizable numbers of birds. The extreme north end of Toledo Bend is particularly promising, while Lake Fork offers ample shallow feeding areas.

As hunters set their sights on a fruitful season, they are reminded to stay updated on local conditions. A review of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Handbook or App can provide valuable information regarding specific zones and regulations. With excitement in the air and ample opportunities available, the 2025-2026 waterfowl season in Texas promises to be an engaging experience for all involved.

For further inquiries or hunting tips, hunters can reach out to local experts such as Chris Smith at [email protected]. Good luck to all as they embark on this year’s waterfowl adventure!