MDWFP - Weekly Waterfowl Reports

February 1, 2012 Edition

The following report is a compilation of WMA reports and habitat assessments during the week ending January 30, 2012.

Jackson, MS -The 2011-2012 regular duck season ended this past weekend, successful for some and disheartening for others. Hunting reports this weekend across the state remained similar to previous weeks. This season will be marked down as one of hard hunting and mild weather for many waterfowl hunters in the Magnolia state. Reports of abundant ducks on the breeding grounds prior to the season made for a promising outlook. However, hunters should keep in mind that often those same weather systems that create good prairie conditions for ducks create mild winters to the south.

Even with the regular season ending there are still opportunities to pursue waterfowl before next fall. Youth waterfowl weekend is coming up this weekend, February 4-5. It is extremely important to take this opportunity to introduce youth to waterfowl hunting, and WMAs are a great place to take youth after the pressure from the regular hunting season has diminished. Many WMA's in both the north and south delta would be great locations for the youth weekend. Hunters should also keep in mind that February 6^th marks the opener of the late segment of the light goose conservation order. This special season provides an extended opportunity for waterfowl hunting. During the conservation order, there is no bag limit, hunters are allowed to use electronic calls, and there is no shotgun plug restriction. Only snow, blue, and Ross' geese are legal to harvest during this special season.

One final thing to remember is that ducks and geese still remain in the state for several weeks after the conclusion of the hunting season. These birds still need wetland habitat, and it's important to remember to wait as long as possible to remove boards and begin to draw-down your duck holes.

WMA waterfowl harvest data are updated weekly on MDWFP's website. The Waterfowl Program website (www.mdwfp.com/waterfowl) also reports updated water levels, and specific habitat information for WMAs throughout the state.

Previous Reports