Regulation of harvest is carefully assessed and scrutinized by waterfowl biologists in both state and federal agencies.  A number of data sources, including prior seasons’ harvest data and information collected at nesting and breeding sites in the United States and Canada, are used to design harvest regulations.  A predictive model called adaptive harvest management is used to help determine the array of regulations.  Federal regulations allow state wildlife agencies some latitude in designating waterfowl seasons.  The main parameters of duck harvest regulations are:

• Framework dates – the earliest opening and latest closing for waterfowl hunting.
• Season length – the number of days that the season is open to waterfowl hunting.  Some states split their waterfowl seasons into two or three segments to increase hunting opportunities.  Special seasons are sometimes authorized for underharvested species.
• Daily bag limit – the maximum number of waterfowl that can be taken by a hunter in a day.
• Possession limit – the maximum number of waterfowl that can be taken by a hunter during the season.

When managing hunts on your property, it is important to schedule hunting times and locations where waterfowl can return and rest without being hunted.  Continual shooting will drive waterfowl to other areas.  It’s best to shoot in the early morning hours, which will allow ducks to return before nightfall.  Hunting is recommended only one to three mornings a week, with fewer hunts on areas smaller than 20 acres.  For larger acreages, set aside a portion where waterfowl can feed and rest undisturbed.

Migratory bird hunting laws about baiting need to be considered. Baiting is never legal. Regulations are more strict for waterfowl than mourning doves. Click here for an overview of federal regulations.