When is Duck Hunting Season in Tennessee?
Quick answerTennessee offers several opportunities for duck hunters, starting with an early wood duck and teal season from September 12-16, 2026. The main season for ducks, coots, and mergansers is split, running November 28-29, 2026, and again from December 5, 2026, through January 31, 2027.
Tennessee's waterfowl season kicks off with the Early Wood Duck & Teal season, a five-day hunt running from September 12th to September 16th, 2026. This early window provides a great opportunity to get in the blind before the colder weather sets in.
The primary season for ducks, coots, and mergansers is divided into two parts. The first is a brief two-day hunt taking place on the weekend of November 28th and 29th, 2026. The main portion of the season picks up the following week, running from December 5th, 2026, until January 31st, 2027.
All duck hunting seasons in Tennessee are for shotgun only. State regulations require that shotguns be plugged to hold no more than three shells and that hunters use federally approved non-toxic shot. Ammunition must be loaded with T shot or smaller.
Booking a trip with an experienced outfitter can greatly increase your chances of a successful hunt. Top-rated guides in the state, such as G2G Hunting and Reelfoot Lake Duck Hunting Guide, have access to prime habitat and provide all the necessary gear and expertise for a memorable experience.
With several distinct seasons, Tennessee provides ample opportunity for a fantastic waterfowl hunt. To find the perfect trip that aligns with these dates, you can compare prices and packages from the top guided duck hunts in Tennessee.
Duck seasons in Tennessee
Season datesDuck3 seasons
| Season | Zone / Region | Method | Dates | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Wood Duck & Teal Season | Statewide | shotgun | Sep 12 – Sep 16 | Bag6 birds/day, which may include no more than 2 wood ducks.PossessionThree times the daily bag limit |
| Ducks, Coot & Mergansers Season | Statewide | shotgun | Nov 28 – Nov 29 | BagDucks: 6 birds/day which may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be a female), 3 wood ducks, 2 canvasbacks, 2 redheads, 2 black ducks, 3 pintails, and 1 mottled duck. Scaup: 1. Coot: 15. Mergansers: 5 (only 2 of which may be hooded mergansers).PossessionThree times the daily bag limit |
| Ducks, Coot & Mergansers Season | Statewide | shotgun | Dec 5 – Jan 31 | BagDucks: 6 birds/day which may include no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be a female), 3 wood ducks, 2 canvasbacks, 2 redheads, 2 black ducks, 3 pintails, and 1 mottled duck. Scaup: 1 from Dec. 5-17, then 2 from Dec. 18 - Jan. 31. Coot: 15. Mergansers: 5 (only 2 of which may be hooded mergansers).PossessionThree times the daily bag limit |
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