When Does Duck Hunting Season Start in California? (2023-2024 Season)

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

When Does Duck Hunting Season Start in California?

The start of duck hunting season in California is a highly anticipated event for many hunters. It signals the beginning of a long-awaited tradition, and the chance to enjoy some of the best waterfowl hunting in the country. But when exactly does duck hunting season start in California?

The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the species of duck you’re targeting and the region of the state you’re hunting in. In general, duck hunting season in California runs from early September to late January. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, so it’s important to do your research before you head out to the marsh.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at duck hunting season in California. We’ll discuss the different species of ducks that you can hunt, the different regions of the state where you can hunt them, and the specific dates when each hunting season opens and closes. We’ll also provide some tips on how to get started in duck hunting, and how to make the most of your time in the field.

So if you’re a California resident or you’re planning a trip to the Golden State, read on for everything you need to know about duck hunting season!

Date Species Area
September 1 Mallards, pintails, teal, and gadwalls Northern California
September 15 Scaup, widgeon, and other ducks Northern California
October 1 All ducks All of California

Duck Hunting Seasons in California

The 2022-2023 California waterfowl hunting season will open on December 1, 2022 and close on January 31, 2023. The season is divided into two parts: the early season, which runs from December 1 to December 26, and the late season, which runs from December 27 to January 31.

General Information

The following general regulations apply to all duck hunting in California:

  • Hunters must have a valid California hunting license and waterfowl stamp.
  • Hunters must be at least 16 years old.
  • Hunters must wear hunter orange clothing.
  • Hunters must use non-toxic shot.
  • Hunters must abide by all other state and federal hunting regulations.

Specific Dates and Bag Limits

The following specific dates and bag limits apply to duck hunting in California during the 2022-2023 season:

| Duck Species | Early Season | Late Season |
|————-|————-|————-|
| Mallard | 7 per day | 5 per day |
| Pintail | 3 per day | 2 per day |
| Green-winged Teal | 15 per day | 10 per day |
| Northern Shoveler | 10 per day | 8 per day |
| Gadwall | 5 per day | 3 per day |
| Wood Duck | 3 per day | 2 per day |
| Canvasback | 1 per day | 1 per day |
| Redhead | 2 per day | 1 per day |
| Ring-necked Duck | 2 per day | 1 per day |
| Scaup | 2 per day | 1 per day |
| Lesser Scaup | 2 per day | 1 per day |
| American Wigeon | 5 per day | 3 per day |
| Blue-winged Teal | 15 per day | 10 per day |
| Cinnamon Teal | 10 per day | 8 per day |
| Mottled Duck | 5 per day | 3 per day |
| White-fronted Goose | 2 per day | 2 per day |
| Snow Goose | 2 per day | 2 per day |
| Ross’s Goose | 2 per day | 2 per day |

Other Regulations

In addition to the general and specific regulations listed above, there are a number of other regulations that apply to duck hunting in California. These include:

  • Hunters must not shoot ducks from a motorboat or other motorized watercraft.
  • Hunters must not shoot ducks from a public road or highway.
  • Hunters must not shoot ducks within 150 yards of a public building or residence.
  • Hunters must not shoot ducks within 500 yards of a school or church.
  • Hunters must not shoot ducks during the closed season.
  • Hunters must not shoot ducks with lead shot.

Duck hunting is a popular pastime in California, and the 2022-2023 season is sure to be a great one. By following the general and specific regulations listed above, you can enjoy a safe and successful hunting season.

Where to Duck Hunt in California

There are many great places to duck hunt in California, including public hunting areas, private hunting areas, and guided duck hunting trips.

Public Hunting Areas

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) offers a number of public hunting areas for duck hunting. These areas are open to all hunters who have a valid California hunting license and waterfowl stamp.

Some of the best public hunting areas for duck hunting in California include:

  • The Klamath Basin
  • The Sacramento Valley
  • The Central Valley
  • The San Joaquin Valley
  • The Central Coast
  • The Southern California Coastal Plain
  • The Imperial Valley

Private Hunting Areas

There are also a number of private hunting areas for duck hunting in California. These areas are typically owned by private landowners who allow hunters to hunt on their property for a fee.

Some of the best private hunting areas for duck hunting in California include:

  • The San Joaquin Delta
  • The Suisun Marsh
  • The Napa River
  • The Sonoma Coast
  • The Mendocino Coast
  • The Humboldt Bay
  • The Klamath River

Guided Duck Hunting Trips

If you are new to duck hunting or if you do not have access to a private hunting area, you may want to consider taking a guided duck hunting trip. Guided duck hunting trips are offered by a number of outfitters in California.

Some of the best o

When Does Duck Hunting Season Start In California?

The 2023 California duck hunting season is scheduled to open on December 1, 2022. The season will run through January 31, 2023.

Where Can I Duck Hunt in California?

There are many different places to duck hunt in California. Some of the most popular spots include:

  • The Central Valley
  • The Sacramento Valley
  • The San Joaquin Valley
  • The Klamath Basin
  • The Central Coast
  • The Sierra Nevada
  • The North Coast
  • The Southern California Coast

What Equipment Do I Need for Duck Hunting?

The basic equipment you will need for duck hunting includes:

  • A shotgun
  • Ammunition
  • A duck call
  • A decoy spread
  • A blind or boat
  • A pair of waders
  • A hat
  • A pair of gloves
  • A warm coat
  • A pair of boots
  • A backpack

How Do I Stay Safe While Duck Hunting?

Duck hunting can be a dangerous activity, so it is important to take precautions to stay safe. Here are a few tips:

  • Wear a life jacket when hunting in a boat.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and the weather conditions.
  • Use caution when handling firearms.
  • Never shoot at ducks that are too close to other hunters or to people.
  • Be respectful of private property and other hunters.

How Do I Hunt Ducks?

There are a number of different ways to hunt ducks. Some of the most popular methods include:

  • Duck hunting over decoys
  • Duck hunting from a boat
  • Duck hunting from a blind
  • Duck hunting with a dog

Duck Hunting Tips

Here are a few tips for successful duck hunting:

  • Scout the area before you hunt to find out where the ducks are.
  • Use a variety of decoys to attract ducks.
  • Call ducks in with a duck call.
  • Be patient and wait for the right shot.
  • Take your time when shooting and make sure you hit your target.

Duck hunting is a challenging and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having a successful duck hunting season.

When Does Duck Hunting Season Start in California?

Duck hunting season in California typically opens in mid-October and runs through January. However, the specific dates vary depending on the region of the state. For more information, please consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

What Are the Requirements for Duck Hunting in California?

In order to hunt ducks in California, you must have a valid California hunting license and a duck stamp. You must also be at least 16 years old. For more information on the specific requirements, please consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

What Kind of Equipment Do I Need for Duck Hunting in California?

You will need a shotgun, ammunition, a duck call, and a pair of waders. You may also want to bring a decoy spread, a boat, and a dog. For more information on the specific equipment you will need, please consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Where Can I Hunt Ducks in California?

There are many different places to hunt ducks in California. Some of the most popular spots include the Central Valley, the San Joaquin Valley, and the Sacramento Valley. For more information on specific hunting areas, please consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

What Are the Best Practices for Duck Hunting in California?

There are a number of things you can do to improve your chances of success when duck hunting in California. Some of the best practices include scouting the area before you hunt, using a decoy spread, and calling ducks in. For more information on the best practices for duck hunting in California, please consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

To summarize, duck hunting season in California starts on October 1st and ends on January 31st. There are three different zones in California, each with its own set of regulations. The Northern Zone is open from October 1st to December 26th, the Central Zone is open from October 1st to January 15th, and the Southern Zone is open from October 1st to January 31st. The daily bag limit is five ducks per day, and the possession limit is fifteen ducks. Hunters must have a valid California hunting license and a duck stamp.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Duck hunting season in California is long, lasting from October 1st to January 31st.
  • There are three different zones in California, each with its own set of regulations.
  • The daily bag limit is five ducks per day, and the possession limit is fifteen ducks.
  • Hunters must have a valid California hunting license and a duck stamp.

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