Waterfowl Hunters Adjust to Low Water and Warm Skies as Arkansas Season Begins

Duck season has returned to Arkansas, and hunters are once again venturing into the woods and fields, rifles and decoys in hand, following last weekend’s highly anticipated opener. The state marked the start of the season with festivities, including a lively concert at Simmons Bank Arena by country artist Riley Green, widely known as the “duck man,” an event that drew crowds and set the tone for the season.

Regulations remain largely unchanged from previous years, though hunters will notice one significant update: the pintail bag limit has increased, allowing for a larger take of these iconic waterfowl.

The 2025–26 season is structured into three splits: November 22 to December 1, December 10 to 23, and December 27 to January 31. During the first split, hunters have a few extra days over Thanksgiving weekend to pursue ducks and other waterfowl before the season pauses at sunset on Monday, December 1.

Weather and Water Levels Remain Concern

Concerns surfaced as the season opened with unusually warm temperatures and low water levels. Trey Reid of the AGFC acknowledged the unseasonably warm weather but said he remains hopeful for cooler conditions ahead. He noted that even though duck season is officially underway, the state is not yet fully prepared; cooler temperatures and more water are still needed to support stronger migrations.

Arkansas received some rain ahead of the opener, but Reid said drought conditions remain a concern. Many public areas will start the season with limited water. Green Tree Reservoirs, in particular, will remain dry early as part of long-term habitat restoration designed to protect red oak regeneration. Reid explained that November 15 has historically been the earliest flooding date for these areas, and delaying flooding is necessary for long-term forest health.

Different habitats will face varying conditions. Frog Bayou near Alma has water available, while Ed Gordon Point Remove WMA remains dry due to a pump damaged by copper theft. By Tuesday, additional rainfall had arrived, helping improve conditions in some areas.

Keep Expectations and Targets Real

While the overall duck population remains steady, Reid urged hunters to temper their expectations, noting that fewer ducks are present compared with some past seasons. He emphasized the importance of keeping expectations realistic. “There are going to be good days and bad days. There are going to be good seasons and bad seasons.” Even in years with lower duck numbers, Arkansas can still see strong migrations when weather and water conditions align. Reid also reminded hunters to appreciate the journey each duck takes to reach the state. “The ducks do not owe us anything. They are just being ducks and doing what they do. The fact that they hatch, survive to adulthood, learn to fly, and make it to Arkansas and over our decoys makes it pretty special.”

Reflecting on his own weekend, Reid, who hunted in south-central Arkansas on opening day, said, “I was on a hunt where we shot some ducks. Judging by what I saw on social media, some folks had good hunts and others did not. That is usually how it goes.”

He added that the duck opener typically unfolds the same way each year. Hunters with managed water or pumps usually enjoy a good day or two, but activity often slows after that. Reid noted that recent rainfall should improve conditions in public areas and that colder weather is on the way.

Interesting Observations from the Hunt

Snow geese were more widespread this past weekend than many observers have seen in recent years. Last season, the first noticeable arrival of snow geese in the Delta did not occur until around December 1. This year, large flocks were already visible near Geridge along U S Highway 165, around Stuttgart, and along Interstate 40 near Hazen.

Specklebelly geese, also known as white fronted geese, were also reported in strong numbers across the fields of Arkansas County. Long lines of specklebellies were seen heading toward the river after sunset on Sunday, just before heavy rainfall moved in Monday morning. By Monday afternoon, the ground in that region held plenty of standing water.

Reid said a hunter he spoke with over the weekend noticed that many more birds had arrived after Sunday. He added that the recent rain provided more sheet water and runoff in the woods, which should help shift duck movement. After several days of being hunted, ducks naturally begin to move around more as well. Reid said these factors suggest conditions are beginning to improve.

Follow the Rules and Enjoy the Hunt

From ongoing renovations at Green Tree Reservoirs to managing nearly 11,000 acres of moist soil habitat, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission works year-round to maintain the state’s reputation as the waterfowl capital of the world. Regardless of how the season starts or ends, Reid emphasized that the commission remains committed to habitat restoration and infrastructure improvements.

Hunters also play a key role by following safe and responsible practices. A complete list of regulations and updates is available in the 2024 Waterfowl Guidebook.