State biologists predict lower overall bird counts across the flyway for the 2026–27 duck season. In East Texas's North Zone, a youth, veteran and active-duty military weekend runs Nov. 7–8. Regular duck season opens Nov. 14 and has two splits: Nov. 14–29 and Dec. 5 through Jan. 31, 2027. Light and dark goose season opens Nov. 7.
A seasonal outlook from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department said prairie-nesting duck populations continue a multi-year decline after extended drought in northern breeding grounds. The agency said improved moisture earlier this summer produced strong juvenile production. Kevin Kraai, the department's waterfowl program leader, said hunters should set measured expectations. "The overarching message is cautious optimism," he said.
In Mineola, Wood County hunter Danny Henderson said early-season success will depend on rainfall. "Right now, it doesn't look good because of the water," he said. The department said low summer reservoir levels exposed shorelines that grew seed-bearing vegetation, but late-autumn rain is needed to flood those areas for migrating ducks.