Bismarck and Mandan area waterfowl hunters have reasons for optimism regarding the upcoming 2026 season, according to recent information from the North Dakota Game and Fish. Despite an initially dry spring that significantly impacted the state's pond index and overall waterfowl numbers, beneficial rainfall in late May and early June led to a “good brood production overall in the state.” This positive development, combined with an anticipated increase in ducks and geese migrating from Canada, suggests a steady stream of birds this fall for hunters in Burleigh and Morton counties.
The North Dakota Game and Fish reports that the state's brood index is up a “whopping 55%” from the previous year, a surprising increase given the dry conditions at the start of spring. This rebound was particularly strong for certain species, with Gadwalls, Pintails, and Redhead ducks showing “significant increases.” The strong production observed across the prairie this spring and summer is expected to result in “a lot of young birds in the fall flight,” which the agency suggests “should lead to plenty of decoying opportunities and good hunting.” Overall, North Dakota Game and Fish projects an 8 to 9 percent greater fall flight compared to last year. Further boosting the outlook for hunters, Canada goose numbers appear strong this year in North Dakota, and Sandhill Cranes are noted to be at record high populations, according to the North Dakota Game and Fish.
In addition to the promising forecast, the North Dakota Game and Fish has announced two notable changes to the upcoming waterfowl season, impacting both resident and non-resident hunters. The first nine days of the waterfowl season, starting Saturday, September 26th, and continuing through Sunday, October 4th, will be reserved exclusively for North Dakota residents. Non-residents will be able to begin hunting waterfowl on Monday, October 5th. This adjustment, according to the North Dakota Game and Fish, is designed to provide resident hunters in the state with “more opportunities,” although the change “has ruffled a few feathers with out-of-state hunters.”
The second significant regulatory change affects goose hunting later in the season. Beginning on November 29th, the state will transition to all-day goose hunting, a practice that will continue for the remainder of the season. This aims to provide extended hunting hours for goose enthusiasts in North Dakota.
As hunters prepare for the season, the North Dakota Game and Fish reminds them to be aware of the prevailing dry conditions across the state. The agency specifically urges hunters to “be careful not to start fires when driving off roads,” emphasizing the importance of fire safety during outdoor activities. This advisory is particularly relevant for those traversing fields and rural areas in pursuit of game.
