Arkansas Duck Hunting Blog

The eastern Dakotas received below-average winter snowfall; warm temperatures have left most temporary wetland basins completely dry. Some permanent wetlands and reservoirs are in better condition, but the Dakotas will need significant spring precipitation to provide a good breeding habitat for waterfowl.

For the first time in nearly 30 years, duck hunters in the lower 48 states could have the chance to shoot three pintails a day as soon as the 2025-26 season—a possible outcome of an interim population and harvest strategy being put into use by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. However, it’s important to note that despite a change in the model, the daily bag limit for all future seasons still depends on the pintail populations and habitat conditions on the breeding grounds.

As states finalize waterfowl seasons and regulations for the 2024-25 season, several key changes have come into focus. One potential change strongly considered in Arkansas was reducing the four-mallard daily bag limit to include only one hen. The measure was tabled in committee, and the Arkansas Fish and Game Commission approved a regulations package for the 2024-25 season to maintain the daily bag limit of four mallards with up to two hens.

According to the most recent available data, breeding conditions for ducks ahead of a critical nesting and brood-rearing period are inconsistent. While water levels in the prairie pothole region can change rapidly and recent strides have been made, significant portions of the Canadian prairies and parklands remain drier than average.

Waterfowl hunting is considered a hobby by those who don’t understand our obsession. Duck season might only last 3 to 4 months, depending on where you live, but it’s a year-long pursuit for us diehards. So what are we doing the rest of the year? As you continue reading, you’ll discover my list of priorities to help keep me and my hunting buddy in shape for the upcoming waterfowl season.

Every avid hunter knows that mastering the art of duck calling is essential for a successful hunting experience. Whether you are a seasoned hunter looking to improve your skills or a beginner looking to learn the basics, this guide is for you. Duck calling is a skill that requires practice, patience, and a deep understanding of the natural sounds ducks make.

Ask a hunter what the purpose of their hunt is, and you’re bound to get a plethora of answers. But for Darryl Moore, the "why" of his hunting is the relationships he cultivates along the way. His love for duck hunting, however, didn’t come around until high school.

The breeding population of ducks declined by 7% this spring, while pond counts dropped by 9% compared to last year, according to the 2023 Waterfowl Population Status report released today by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Bird species around the world are facing a threat to their survival. Habitat loss is one of the most important factors threatening their survival. However, there is one bird species that seems to be thriving despite these challenges: ducks. Ducks are doing so well that their population numbers are actually increasing.

Arkansas is known as the duck hunting capital of the world, and for good reason. With its abundance of waterfowl, it's no wonder that hunting is such a beloved pastime in the area. But what does a day in the life of an Arkansas Duck Hunting Guide look like? We've teamed up with Cupped Wings Guide Service to give you an inside look at what it's like to be a professional hunting guide. From pre-dawn preparations to setting up the perfect decoy spread, we'll take you through what it takes to ensure a successful hunt. So, grab your gear and join us as we experience a day in the life of an Arkansas duck hunting guide.