Texas Teal Hunting Season Cut Short For The First Time In 20 Years

Teal hunting season kicks off September 20, and according to officials with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas waterfowl hunters face a shortened early season for the first time in 20 years.

Instead of a full 16-day season, this year's Teal hunting season will be for 9 days (September 20-28). The daily bag limit on teal is six, with a possession limit of 18.

Why The Shortened Season?

The Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  (USFWS) and Canadian Wildlife Service in May of 2024 estimated the blue-winged teal breeding population at 4.55 million birds, a 15 percent decline and the lowest estimate in two decades. USFWS requires a minimum population of 4.7 million birds to authorize a full 16-day season.

The most recent May survey showed an even lower estimate of 4.4 million blue-winged teal, which is now 13 percent below the long-term average. Unfortunately, hunters can also expect another shortened season next year during the 2026-27 hunting season.

What's Causing the Duck Decline?

Prolonged drought in key areas of Canada and the Dakotas has reduced habitat quality and nesting success, leading to population declines.

Habitat conditions are on the drier side across Texas following a wet summer. Drought conditions in Central Texas restricted irrigation water for the state’s rice prairies and left landowners reliant on rainfall to fill wetlands and fields. Hunters can expect teal to concentrate in the areas where irrigation or groundwater is available.

Despite the challenges, Kraai indicates hunters can still anticipate an average teal season in Texas this fall.

Hunters should purchase their new 2025-26 Texas hunting license before hitting the field. In addition, teal/waterfowl hunters will also need a migratory game bird endorsement, Federal Duck Stamp, and HIP certification. It’s also required by law that hunters have proof of their completion of a hunter education course.