Early fall has been unusually warm across the Central Flyway, which is delaying some waterfowl migration, but a promising season is ahead.

Our duck-population survey in May yielded positive results for the first time in years; and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service surveys found the total number of ducks has increased 5% since 2023.

“We anticipate the best duck production in many years,” says Waterfowl Program Leader Kevin Kraai. “I expect an above-average duck season, though it may start slowly due to the late migration of larger duck species still lingering up north.”

For specific survey info and more, see 2024’s Waterfowl in Texas. For more on the forecast, see our press release TPWD Biologists Anticipate Promising Season for Waterfowl Hunters.

Bag limits vary by species, so check the 2024-25 Outdoor Annual for bag limits and all other waterfowl regulation information.

To hunt waterfowl, you’ll need:

1. Valid Texas hunting license
2. Proof of Hunter Education
3. HIP certification
4. Migratory Game Bird Endorsement
5. Federal Duck Stamp – *NEW* If you purchase an Electronic Federal Duck Stamp, you’re no longer required to have the physical stamp while hunting. For details, see our Federal Duck Stamp Updates.

Your license can now be accessed digitally with the Outdoor Annual app or the Texas Hunt & Fish app (formerly My Texas Hunt Harvest app). A legible, digital photo of your license or your emailed license receipt can also be used for waterfowl hunting.

Waterfowl hunts take place in locations that are often cold, wet, remote and dark. They come with unique risks that you must recognize and prepare for to avoid tragedy.

Prepare for your hunt by looking over our list of 7 safety tips and techniques just for waterfowlers.

If you use a boat while waterfowl hunting, use the risk assessment tool to help decrease those risks you can control. Let’s get everyone home safe and sound.

Invasive species like giant salvinia can quickly grow to cover vast expanses of fresh water, blocking access to prime waterfowl hunting spots.

If you hunt by boat you must clean, drain and dry it to help stop the spread of invasive species like giant salvinia and zebra mussels. Any gear that’s been in the water can also carry them, so you must put your gear through the clean, drain, dry process, too. This includes decoys, waders and marsh sleds.

Watch this short video about how to clean, drain and dry every time you travel from lake to lake. Protect the lakes you love, fight back against invasives – clean, drain and dry both your boat AND your gear.