If you’re passionate about ducks, geese, and other waterfowl, the U.S. has no shortage of world-class destinations. But with migration patterns, habitat differences, and weather changes, not all hunting locations are created equal. This guide ranks the best states for waterfowl hunting based on bird numbers, public access, variety of species, and overall success rates.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country duck hunting road trip or looking to settle into a new flyway hotspot, these states consistently deliver some of the most exciting hunts in America.
1. Arkansas
Why it ranks #1: Arkansas is the duck hunting capital of the country, and it’s no secret. The Mississippi Flyway funnels millions of mallards, pintails, and teal into the state’s rice fields and bottomlands every winter.
- Famous for flooded timber hunts in the Mississippi Delta
- Massive public land opportunities in places like Bayou Meto WMA
- Top mallard harvest numbers year after year
Peak times are late December through January. If you’ve never hunted the timber in Arkansas, it should be on your bucket list.
2. Louisiana
Why it stands out: Louisiana is a wetland-rich state that supports an incredible volume of ducks and geese. With direct access to the Gulf Coast and rivers like the Atchafalaya, it’s a top stopover and wintering location.
- Thousands of acres of coastal marsh and rice fields
- Excellent public land access and coastal boat hunts
- High diversity: gadwall, teal, pintail, redheads, and canvasbacks
From Venice to Lake Charles, Louisiana is a top-tier state for both guided and DIY duck hunters.
3. North Dakota
Why it’s legendary: North Dakota offers early-season, mixed-bag hunts where ducks are still in full plumage. The Prairie Pothole Region is a breeding ground for many species, and the hunting reflects that.
- Early opener in September with low pressure
- Massive flocks of mallards, pintails, wigeon, and gadwalls
- Generous nonresident licensing and access programs
With the PLOTS (Private Land Open to Sportsmen) program, hunters get semi-private access without leasing. It’s perfect for freelance waterfowlers.
4. South Dakota
Why it makes the list: South Dakota may have stricter nonresident licensing rules, but for residents and lucky draw winners, it’s an incredible destination.
- Unmatched goose hunting along the Missouri River
- Late-season duck hunts with freezing temps and heavy migration
- Huge flocks of snow geese during spring conservation seasons
If you enjoy hunting field geese or chasing divers on big reservoirs, South Dakota is hard to beat.
5. Missouri
Why it’s a sleeper favorite: Missouri benefits from being in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway, with key wetland projects and top-tier public areas like Grand Pass, Fountain Grove, and Ten Mile Pond.
- Large numbers of greenheads and mixed puddle ducks
- Strong conservation department managing daily draw hunts
- Reasonable nonresident license prices
Expect high competition for public draws, but also high reward. Missouri has become a serious contender in the central flyway.
6. California
Why it’s worth your time: Often overlooked, California offers some of the best managed waterfowl areas in the Pacific Flyway, particularly in the Sacramento Valley and San Joaquin Delta.
- Target wigeon, pintail, teal, and sprig in abundance
- Great access via state-operated refuges
- Good public draw odds during midweek hunts
Don’t let the state’s politics scare you off. If you’re local or traveling, California delivers diverse hunting and longer seasons.
7. Texas
Why it belongs: With coastal marshes, prairie potholes, and desert reservoirs, Texas offers a mixed bag of options for duck and goose hunters.
- Legendary goose hunting on the coastal plains
- Teal-only seasons in early September
- Unique species like mottled ducks, whistlers, and fulvous tree ducks
While access may require more research or leases, the size and bird variety make Texas a waterfowl powerhouse.
8. Minnesota
Why it’s a northern flyway gem: Minnesota lies in the upper Mississippi Flyway and is an early-season favorite for mixed flocks of divers and puddlers.
- Public lakes and marshes everywhere
- Great diver hunting on the Mississippi River and Lake Pepin
- Strong youth and veteran hunting programs
The state is especially attractive in October before major freezes, with good shooting and manageable pressure.
9. Illinois
Why it’s reliable: From the Illinois River Valley to the Mississippi River bluffs, Illinois continues to produce quality waterfowl opportunities.
- Consistent mallard and gadwall numbers
- Refuge systems like Chautauqua and Emiquon bring in birds
- Great heritage of blind-based hunting
It’s a solid central flyway choice with plenty of tradition and good public opportunities.
10. Washington
Why it’s underrated: Western Washington offers unique coastal duck species, while eastern areas like the Columbia Basin provide excellent field hunts for ducks and geese.
- High bag limits and long seasons
- Diverse species including scoters, goldeneyes, and canvasbacks
- Public access via federal lands and state wildlife areas
For those willing to explore beyond the Midwest, Washington offers a wild and rewarding Pacific flyway experience.
Quick Comparison Table
| State | Best For | Flyway |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | Flooded timber, mallards | Mississippi |
| Louisiana | Coastal marsh, mixed bags | Mississippi |
| North Dakota | Early teal and puddle ducks | Central |
| South Dakota | Late season geese | Central |
| Missouri | Draw hunts, public WMA | Mississippi |
| California | Pacific species, rice fields | Pacific |
| Texas | Coastal and desert waterfowl | Central |
| Minnesota | Public lakes and rivers | Mississippi |
| Illinois | River valley hunting | Mississippi |
| Washington | Coastal and inland variety | Pacific |
Conclusion
America’s waterfowl hunting opportunities are as diverse as the birds themselves. From the flooded timber of Arkansas to the coastal marshes of Louisiana and the prairie potholes of North Dakota, every region offers something unique. Your ideal destination depends on the birds you want, your preferred hunting style, and how far you’re willing to travel.
Pick your state, check the season dates, grab your gear, and get ready for action. The skies are full, and the blinds are waiting.