Duck Hunting Season in Alaska: Season Dates, Bag Limits, and More

Duck hunting season in Alaska is one of a hunter’s most exciting times. The weather is still warm, but there is a crispness to the air that signals cooler days ahead. Fall brings new life to the state in all its glory, from fiery leaves and wildflowers to crunchy apples and pumpkins. Moreover, as any duck hunter knows, it is prime time for waterfowl hunters!

Whether you are an avid hunter or just someone looking for fun outdoors, this guide will help you prepare for your trip. If you are new to duck hunting, this guide will help you understand what it takes to be a successful hunter. If you have hunted before and want to learn more about the state’s regulations, this guide is for you as well. Below, we discuss everything you need to know about duck hunting season in Alaska.

Can You Hunt Ducks in Alaska?

Whether you are a new duck hunter or have been hunting waterfowl for a while, it is important to know the laws regarding duck hunting in Alaska. The first thing you will need is a Federal Duck Stamp.

The stamp is required from anyone who wants to hunt waterfowl in Alaska and can be purchased from any post office or online at usps.com/stamps (search “duck stamp”). Once you have your stamp, it is valid for one year from the date of purchase and for any state or territory that sells them. 

Anyone 16 years old or older who wants to hunt migratory game birds in any state other than Alaska, including Canada, must also buy a $25 Federal Duck Stamp. This is true even if they stay in a national wildlife refuge outside Alaska but still in the United States.

What Are the Duck Hunting Season Dates in Alaska?

Duck hunting season in Alaska runs from September 16th through December 31st. Many people come to Alaska looking for trophy birds in full winter plumage to add to their collections. If this is what you want, we recommend booking from October 20 until the end of the season. 

What Is the Daily Bag Limit for Ducks in Alaska?

The daily bag limit for duck hunting in Alaska is seven, with a maximum of one canvasback. 

The first step in enjoying your Alaska duck hunting experience is obtaining the appropriate license. The permit you need depends on where and when you want to hunt. For details on what licenses are required for the type of hunting you are interested in, you can see Alaska’s Guide to Hunting Licenses Page.

Possession Limits

Once you are done hunting, you can bring home your bird to enjoy over the winter. Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations state that there are no limits on how many geese or ducks a person may possess during the open season.

However, there are restrictions on how many birds you can keep in your freezer as well as during other seasons:

• No more than five geese or 15 ducks may be possessed at any time during the open season without a permit (except for residents).

• From September 1st to March 31st, nonresidents who hunt in Alaska cannot have more than 25 bird species per day. There is no limit on the number of birds nonresidents can have if they only hunt in open areas and do not go into closed areas.

What Are the Common Hunting Violations in Alaska?

One of the most common hunting violations in Alaska is hunting out of season. Hunting without a license, permit, or federal duck stamp is also a common mistake hunters make. When hunting, you should also avoid the use of an unplugged shotgun (unless you are hunting tundra swans).

Can Alaska Residents Hunt Year-Round?

Yes, Alaska residents can hunt year-round. There are some restrictions on hunting in certain areas during the winter, but you can still choose from various game animals to hunt. As an Alaska resident, you can also hunt waterfowl, small and big game, year-round.

What Kind of Duck Makes the Best Meat?

Most of the time, Pekin and Muscovy ducks are the best for making meat. Some hatcheries sell a “jumbo” Pekin that has been chosen for making meat and is not good for showing off. The Muscovy duck is a large duck endemic to the Americas but is more common in South America.

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