NCWRC approved season dates, bag limits and applicable regulations for the 2025-26 waterfowl, webless migratory game bird (including doves) and extended falconry seasons. The dates are available on the agency’s website and will be published in the 2025-26 Inland Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Regulations Digest in August.
The majority of seasons remain unchanged from the last year, but there are some changes, including the daily bag limit for Northern pintail was increased from 1 to 3 birds. The September teal season was shortened from 16 days to 9.
The first Youth and Veterans/Military waterfowl day will be held Saturday, Dec. 6 between the second and third waterfowl season splits. The second Youth and Veterans/Military day will be held Saturday, Feb. 7, following the closing of the general duck season. The definition of “youth” was updated to include only hunters ages 15 or younger.
BTW, dove season starts Sep. 1.