Two northern pintail birds in flight
Thursday, April 24, 2025

State Wildlife Agency Announces 2025-2026 North Carolina Migratory Game Bird Seasons

Raleigh, N.C.
Apr 24, 2025

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) has announced the approved season dates, bag limits and applicable regulations for the 2025-26 waterfowl, webless migratory game bird (including doves) and extended falconry seasons. The dates are available on the agency’s website and will be published in the 2025-26 Inland Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Regulations Digest this August. 

The majority of seasons remain unchanged from the previous year, but there are some notable changes, including:

  • The daily bag limit for Northern pintail has been increased from 1 bird to 3 birds.
  • The September teal season has been shortened from a 16-day season to a 9-day season.
  • The first Youth and Veterans/Military waterfowl day will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6 between the second and third waterfowl season splits.
  • The second Youth and Veterans/Military day will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, following the closing of the general duck season.
  • The definition of “youth” has been updated to include only hunters ages 15 or younger.

For more information, visit the Wildlife Commission’s Regulations webpage