Hunters can get a jump on the waterfowl season with the upcoming early teal and Canada goose hunting season, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). Early Canada goose season is Sept. 5-27, 2026, with a daily limit of 5 geese, and early teal season is Sept. 12-20, 2026, with a daily limit of 6 teal.  

“Be sure to take advantage of early season waterfowl hunting opportunities,” said Kara Nitschke, WRD state waterfowl biologist. “The weather is nice and the birds have had limited exposure to hunting pressure, so you’ll get a chance at some good shooting before the regular season begins.”

Need a place to hunt teal and geese? Visit a Georgia Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) that is open for small game hunting during the statewide teal and goose seasons, or even at beaver ponds and other natural wetlands (always ensure you have permission to hunt any private property). Lakes and reservoirs such as Juliette, Clarks Hill, West Point, and Seminole offer great hunting opportunities for teal and geese.  

Waterfowl hunters need a hunting license, the Georgia migratory bird stamp and the federal duck stamp. All licenses may be purchased at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com.

More information about waterfowl hunting at GeorgiaWildlife.com/migratory-bird-info.  

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