The September aerial waterfowl population survey showed that duck numbers were down by approximately 60 percent from where they had been just two years ago, but are still above
those numbers recorded during the drought years in the early 1990’s. More than 65,000 ducks and 2,000 Canada geese were recorded on principal wetlands in western Nevada. State and Federal wetlands in southern and eastern Nevada are reporting average waterfowl populations for this time of the year. Shovelers, gadwalls, and green-winged teal comprised 71 percent of the birds recorded during the aerial survey.

While wetland conditions in the northern and western portions of the state are generally in poor shape, some fair to good hunting can be experienced if hunters do their homework.

Waterfowl will still be migrating through
the state on their way from their breeding grounds to wintering areas to the west and south of the state. Duck hunters need to also be aware as a result of poor production this year that the fall migration will be made up of
a high percentage of adult birds.

 

Because of the serious drought, the
Humboldt (Toulon), Fernley, Alkali Lake,
Scripps, and Franklin Lake Wildlife Management Areas are dry and will not provide any hunting this season. The Ruby Lake and Stillwater National Wildlife Refuges, Mason Valley WMA, and Carson Lake (Greenhead Club) have reduced water levels, but will provide some fair to good hunting. Hunters should also look at areas such as Lahontan and Rye Patch Reservoirs or Walker Lake, that traditionally have not been considered duck hunting areas. State WMAs in the eastern and southern portions of the state have much better water and habitat conditions.

Since Canada geese feed primarily in agricultural areas, hunting for these birds could be good. Populations throughout the west are at or near record levels and they will not be as greatly affected as are ducks by this year’s drought conditions. The Canada
goose population will consist of a high percentage of adult birds, making hunting more difficult. Swan hunting during this year is expected to be poor because of the lack of swan feeding areas.