The 2026 Duck Season bag limits have been announced, and it’s time to start planning your trips, gear, licences and strategies. Below you’ll find the confirmed season dates and bag limits, plus tips on what to expect, a practical gear checklist, and a buyer’s guide to the best products to support your hunt.
Important: Always confirm final season dates, bag limits and rules with the appropriate state game authority before heading out.
Victoria – 2026 Duck Season
Victoria has formally announced the open season for duck hunting in 2026, according to the Game Management Authority.
2026 Season Dates:
Opens: Wednesday, 18 March 2026
Closes: Monday, 8 June 2026
These dates are inclusive of shooting days and subject to daily start and finish times as outlined by the GMA (e.g., 8:00 am start for the first few days).
Bag limit:
Daily bag limit - Nine game ducks
(Hunting the Blue-winged Shoveler is prohibited.)
What to know:
Licences and a passed Waterfowl Identification Test are normally required prior to hunting.
Wetlands can be closed to protect wildlife at short notice — always check before you go.
South Australia – 2026 Duck Season
South Australia has also published its open season dates for 2026.
2026 Season Dates:
Opens: Saturday, 21 March 2026 (sunrise)
Closes: Sunday, 28 June 2026 (sunset)
Hunting is permitted only during daylight hours (sunrise to sunset), and permit requirements apply.
Daily bag limit:
On any day of the open season, a person must not take more than eight (8) ducks of the permitted species listed above.
What to know:
The daily bag limit in SA for duck is up to eight (8) ducks per day during the declared season.
Some reserves and game areas have specific restricted dates or excluded zones.
A duck hunting permit under the National Parks and Wildlife Act is required.
Tasmania – 2026 Duck Season
Tasmania has published its proposed 2026 open season dates, as determined by the Nature Conservation (Open Seasons) Order.
2026 Season Dates:
Opens: Saturday, 7 March 2026
Closes: Monday, 8 June 2026
These dates are published in the Tasmanian recreational hunting licence schedule — always verify final gazettal on the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service or Service Tasmania site before hunting.
Bag Limit:
10 ducks per licenced hunter per day
What to know:
A valid Tasmanian hunting licence is mandatory.
Hunters must hold a Waterfowl Identification Test (WIT) pass to legally take game ducks.
Local rules and species lists can differ from other states.
Pre‑Season Gear Checklist
To make sure you’re ready before the sun rises on opening morning, here’s a solid checklist for your 2026 duck season.
Licences & Compliance
- Valid state game licence
- Firearms licence
- Waterfowl Identification Test (where required)
- Written land access permissions
Firearm & Field Gear
- Shotgun in safe working order
- Approved non‑toxic ammunition
- Cartridge belts or carriers
- Snap caps for safe dry practice
- Field cleaning kit
Clothing & Personal Gear
- Waterproof outerwear and waders
- Insulating layers for cold starts
- Hat and gloves
- Headlamp or torch for predawn prep
Hunt Essentials
- Ammo storage that keeps shells dry
- Game transport solution
- Gun bag or case for safe travel
- Eye and ear protection
Buyer’s Guide: Duck Season Essentials
To help you stock up before the season, here’s a list of recommended gear that performs in real world duck hunting conditions.
Featured Product
Duck Sled
A rugged sled-perfect for hauling birds, decoys and gear through mud, shallow water and rough terrain.
Final Notes
Season dates, bag limits and specific rules can change — always refer to the official game authority websites for Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania when planning your trip. Licences, identification tests and compliance with all regulations are mandatory.
Get your gear in order early, check regulations often, and you’ll be set for a great 2026 duck season.