Oregon Duck Hunting

Oregon duck hunting is divided into two zones.

The Oregon Department of Wildlife Resources (ODFW) manages hunting ducks in Oregon. Duck hunting includes puddle, diving and sea ducks. All hunters are required to have valid licenses and stamps before hunting.

Geography

Oregon is split into two duck hunting zones: Zone 1 and Zone 2. Zone 1 covers the counties west of the Cascade Mountains and the northern counties that border the Columbia River. Zone 2 covers the central and eastern portion of the state. Many state wildlife areas and federal wildlife refuges are open to duck hunting. Hunters may obtain a landowner's permission to hunt on private property.

Time Frame

Open season dates vary each year and between zones, but generally the season runs from mid-October into January, with some closed dates in between.

Types

All Oregon resident duck hunters above age 16 must have a valid hunting license, federal waterfowl stamp signed across the front, Harvest Information Program (HIP) validation, and a resident waterfowl validation for those age 14 and up. The state waterfowl validation stamp need not be in possession while hunting, but the federal waterfowl stamp must be in possession when hunting. Resident landowners may obtain a free landowner license to hunt ducks, except black brant and sea ducks, on their property. Hunters under 13 may obtain a free youth license, and must be accompanied by an adult at least 21 years old.

Features

Hunting licenses and state waterfowl and HIP validations may be obtained from ODFW offices, licensed agents or on-line. Federal waterfowl stamps may be purchased through the U.S. Post Office or many sporting goods stores. Participation in the Harvest Information Program provides wildlife agencies with information to better manage waterfowl populations.

Limits

Daily bag limits of seven ducks pertain to both zones; possession limits are double the daily limit. Daily limits may not exceed three scaup, two hen mallards, two northern pintails, two redheads and one canvasback. Hunters may report a waterfowl band by calling 1-800-327-BAND.

Considerations

Duck hunters dress in warm layers with an outer layer of camouflage clothing. Waterproof boots or waders may be needed depending upon conditions. Some hunters use retriever dogs to fetch ducks that fall into the water or heavy vegetation. Twelve- or 20-gauge shotguns are the most commonly used guns, and since 1991, duck hunters must use only non-toxic shot.

Expert Insight

Tell Someone Where You Plan to Hunt

The Oregon Division of Wildlife Resources recommends that hunters treat every firearm like a loaded one, be sure of their targets, and always know the location of hunting partners or dogs. And in addition to proper hunting gear, licenses and equipment, hunters should leave a trip itinerary with someone in case of emergencies.

References

• Oregon Fish & Wildlife: How to Waterfowl Hunt
• Oregon Fish & Wildlife: Oregon Game Bird Regulations