Waterfowl hunters in Georgia can prepare to head out to their favorite hunting grounds as the state’s duck hunting season opens on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) announced the upcoming season, offering hunters multiple dates to participate.

This year, youth, active military members, and veterans have an exclusive early opportunity to hunt on Nov. 16-17. During these days, hunters ages 16 and under, along with active duty military and veterans, may hunt certain migratory birds such as ducks, Canada geese, and mergansers. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older, though only the youth may hunt.

For the main season, duck hunting dates are set for Nov. 23 through Dec. 1 with a second phase from Dec. 7 to Jan. 26, 2025.

In a new change for 2023, hunters no longer need to carry a physical Federal Duck Stamp, thanks to the Duck Stamp Modernization Act. Now, the electronic Federal Duck Stamp, or "E-stamp," serves as a valid seasonal license. “The E-stamp can even be purchased at the same place you get your other recreational licenses, GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com,” said Kara Nitschke, migratory game bird biologist at WRD. The E-stamp is valid from the date of purchase through June 30, 2025, and hunters will receive a physical stamp by mail after May 10.

For those new to waterfowl hunting or seeking convenience, WRD offers a Waterfowl Hunter Package, which includes all required licenses. The package, available at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com, comes with a hard plastic license card and a camo hat.

Full details on migratory bird hunting regulations are available at GeorgiaWildlife.com/migratory-bird-info.