New York State is Warning Duck and Goose Hunters

If you hear gunshots around the evening or early morning hours in New York State, it could be your neighbors out hunting geese! The 2026 Canada goose season is here, and it sounds like it has been a pretty good season so far, based on what hunters and neighbors are reporting.

Here in New York State, we are blessed to have so many great places to hunt. We are also fortunate to have so many species to pursue, including waterfowl, big game and small game animals. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) does a great job of making sure hunting seasons are planned for the appropriate times of year, with the primary focus being on properly managing wildlife populations.

New York State’s September Goose Hunting Season Is Underway

That being said, it is now time for the September goose season here in New York State, which will run until September 25 in most areas.

Related: Big News For Pheasant Hunting in New York State

If you are going to hunt geese, make sure you have all of the proper paperwork with you and that you are following all New York State laws and regulations pertaining to waterfowl hunting.

But did you know New York State has a specific warning for anyone hunting waterfowl?

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New York State Warns Waterfowl Hunters About Avian Influenza

According to a post on the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s website, avian influenza has been detected in New York State. Although the risk to people is considered low, New York State is asking hunters to make sure they follow certain precautions when handling waterfowl.

"Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has recently been detected in New York State in many species of waterfowl. Although the risk to humans is low, we encourage hunters to take extra precautions while processing harvested waterfowl."

The DEC has a brochure available on its website with information and recommendations for hunters regarding avian influenza and the proper handling of wild birds.

If you are planning to hunt waterfowl this month, it is worth taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with those recommendations before heading into the field.

Plenty of Water Could Make for Good Goose Hunting

Have fun hunting this month! We certainly have our share of water here in New York State, and it seems like the areas that typically flood can provide some great opportunities for hunters.

For those who enjoy goose hunting, September is certainly an exciting time of year. Just make sure you know the regulations, have the proper licenses and paperwork, and follow the state’s recommendations when handling waterfowl.