Rainfall is a large determining factor in the number of ducks that come to Texas, and most areas of the state have had more rain than last year at this time.

Expect more young birds and lower overall numbers during this waterfowl season.

"Improved breeding habitat and strong juvenile production offer positive signs, especially where fall rainfall continues to enhance local wetland conditions," advises Waterfowl Program Leader Kevin Kraai.

Find regional forecasts and more about what to expect in the waterfowl forecast. 

• Bag limits vary by species, so check the 2026-27 Outdoor Annual for specific bag limits and 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 

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

• NEW I.D. Requirements for Your License Purchase: Updated identity verification rules are now in effect when you buy your hunting license. These new rules will help prevent residency fraud and support law enforcement in the field. Get information about specific requirements in the License ID Validation FAQ. 
  
  
  

Waterfowl hunting offers excitement, camaraderie and delicious table fare. You don’t have to worry about scent control or a “No talking!” policy. 

As millions of ducks and geese stream into Texas this fall, use these tips to prepare for your hunts:

1. Practice your calling – getting the sound just right requires good technique. Check out our helpful short video Duck Calling 101.

2. Consider waterfowl hunting on public lands – there are many places to hunt, and access is only $48 a year. Find out more in the Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine story Texas Offers Duck Hunting on Public Land. 

3. Be sure before you shoot! Brush up on your duck identification (PDF) skills. You should also be able to identify non-game and protected species (PDF), including endangered whooping cranes which migrate into Texas in fall.  

4. Safety first! Check the weather forecast for the area you plan to hunt before you get on the water. 

Get more tips on preseason prep, gear, ducks and more in the magazine story Waterfowl Offers Worthy Hunt Pursuits. See you out there!

If you see live maggots on a live animal, immediately report the sighting, and do not move the animal. It may be infested with New World Screwworm (NWS).

NWS are flies that lay eggs in open wounds and moist body parts of live mammals. The eggs hatch into maggots that feed on living tissue. They kill the animal if left untreated. The first case of NWS in Texas was found on a calf on June 3, 2026. Stay informed with our NWS updates.

Dogs that spend time outdoors should be checked for NWS. A Texas game warden demonstrates how you can quickly check a dog in our short video Attention Dog Lovers!