Sitting within the Atlantic Flyway, where vast numbers of ducks and geese migrate yearly from their northern spawning grounds to their southern wintering sites and back, Delaware’s myriad of waterways and farmlands offer hunters a duck and goose hunting haven. Which raises the question: when is duck hunting season in Delaware, and what else should we know before embarking on a duck hunting trip? This article uncovers the duck hunting season dates in Delaware and other interesting facts.
What Kinds of Ducks Can You Find in Delaware?
Mallards, green-winged teal, and wood ducks are the three most common ducks that thrive in Delaware, and these species can be found all year. In addition, 10 different types of dabbling ducks, seven different types of diving ducks, and 11 different types of sea ducks have been sighted in the state.
Duck Hunting Season Dates in Delaware
The kickoff for duck hunters commences in October and ends in January. The first of Delaware’s three regular duck seasons starts in October, running from October 21 to 29. The second season runs from November 21 to Nov 26, and the third season runs from December 9 to January 31 of the following year. These dates can vary depending on the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations. In the late summer and early fall, duck hunters can be observed cleaning and painting decoys, blinds, and rafts; applying reeds and grasses to blinds; training retrievers, and spending a lot of time at the shooting range learning wing-shooting.
Daily Bag Limits and Possession Limits
In Delaware, the bag limit for ducks is six, with a possession limit of three times the total bag count. Please take note of the restrictions on specific species and genders listed below.
Are There Special Regulations for Sea Ducks?
No special sea duck zone exists with specific season dates and daily bag and possession limits. The season dates for sea ducks have been changed to coincide with the regular duck season, plus the daily bag and possession limits for sea ducks have now been included within the regular daily bag and possession limits for all ducks.
Is a Duck Hunting Stamp Required in Delaware?
Anyone hunting waterfowl in Delaware must have a Delaware Waterfowl Stamp. A Delaware Waterfowl Stamp costs $15 for residents aged 16 to 64 and $20 for non-residents aged 16 and above. Delaware citizens 65 and older do not have to purchase a Delaware Waterfowl Stamp. Furthermore, except for crow hunters, all migratory game bird hunters, including duck and goose hunters, require a Federal Harvest Information Program number, which can be acquired through the DNREC ePermitting system or by contacting toll-free 1-855-335-4868.
Where Can You Hunt Ducks in Delaware?
Waterfowl hunters in Delaware have access to various public lands, including marsh blinds or blind sites, highlands blinds, goose pits, and upland pastures. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a nearly 16,000-acre property with one of the biggest stretches of tidal salt marsh in the mid-Atlantic. Bombay Hook is a popular stopover for waterfowl, including many puddle ducks, Canada geese, and greater snow geese. Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is another favored site. The 10,144-acre area is crucial for migrating waterfowl, including ponds, impoundments, and salt and freshwater marshes.
What Are the Shooting Hours in Delaware?
Aside from the Snow Goose Conservation Order, the shooting hour for all mute swans and migrating game birds, which include waterfowl, is one and a half hours before sunrise until sunset.
What Should You Wear When Going Duck Hunting in Delaware?
Waterproof clothing is essential because hunters will get damp thanks to wind and water. It is highly recommended to wear a waterproof outer jacket as well as a good pair of chest waders. In addition, remember to bring good quality boots and waterproof trousers if you do not have waders. Duck hunting is a wet sport that requires you to stay warm.
Taking Your Dog on a Hunt
Having an enthusiastic hunting companion like your dog can be extremely rewarding, especially after all the practice that goes into duck tracking and retrieval. Seeing your puppy in the field fills you with pride and satisfaction. While it is easier to train a puppy, older dogs can also be trained to hunt ducks. Consider purchasing dog equipment such as an insulated vest and a first aid kit in case of an accident. A few extra treats don’t hurt at all too.
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