California's 2026-27 waterfowl hunting season begins October 24, 2026, in most zones, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Duck and goose hunters will pursue game across marshes, wetlands, and coastal areas throughout the state.
Biologists are expecting favorable conditions at the start of the season. "We had abundant spring rains along with carryover water late last year that created favorable habitat conditions for nesting ducks and our managed wetlands," said Melanie Weaver, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Waterfowl Program Biologist. "These local birds make up the bulk of our harvest early until the wintering population arrives later in the season."
Public hunting access is available at more than two dozen national wildlife refuges, wildlife areas, and ecological reserves throughout the state. Hunters must purchase licenses, validations, and passes in advance through California Department of Fish and Wildlife License Sales Offices, online, at license agents, or by phone at 800-565-1458. Detailed information about specific opening and closing dates and daily bag limits can be found in the 2026-27 California Waterfowl, Upland Game, and Public Use of Department Lands Regulations booklet.
The department reminds hunters to take precautions when handling harvested birds, as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 continues to circulate among wild waterbirds. Wild game should be dressed in a well-ventilated area away from chickens and other pet birds. Hunters should not feed dogs or other animals raw meat or organs from harvested waterfowl.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife also asks hunters to prevent the spread of invasive golden mussels by cleaning, draining, and drying duck boats and hunting equipment after each use in any waterbody.