Madison, WI – Waterfowl hunters across Wisconsin should prepare for the start of the regular goose and duck hunting seasons beginning Tuesday, Sept. 16. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) released the official season dates, which vary by zone.
According to the DNR, the regular Canada goose season will run Sept. 16 to Dec. 16 in the Northern Zone, with staggered dates in the Southern and Mississippi zones extending into early January 2026. Duck hunting seasons also begin in September, with the Youth Waterfowl season set for Sept. 20–21. Zone-specific dates for Northern, Southern, and Open Water zones extend through mid-December.
Hunters must hold the proper licenses, including a Wisconsin small game license, a waterfowl stamp, and a federal migratory bird stamp. Each year, waterfowl hunters must also register with the federal Harvest Information Program.
The DNR issued health advisories reminding hunters that waterfowl can carry the avian influenza virus (HPAI) without symptoms. To reduce risk, hunters are urged to avoid handling sick birds, prevent dogs from contact with dead birds, wear gloves, and wash equipment thoroughly.
Additionally, hunters targeting Green Bay should note a PFAS advisory covering mallards and wood ducks. More details and zone maps are available on the DNR’s Waterfowl Hunting webpage.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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