When the temperatures drop and migration begins, Kentucky becomes a prime destination for waterfowl hunters. With its abundance of rivers, wetlands, lakes, and flooded timber, the Bluegrass State offers a variety of habitats that draw in thousands of ducks and geese each year.
Whether you’re calling from a blind on a frozen lake or jump-shooting along a quiet creek, Kentucky’s diverse landscapes and flyway access offer waterfowlers a season full of action and opportunity.
Prime Locations for Waterfowl Hunting in Kentucky
Kentucky sits in a key location along the Mississippi Flyway, one of the most active waterfowl migration routes in North America. Here are some of the top waterfowl hunting hotspots across the state:
Ballard Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
Located in western Kentucky near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, Ballard WMA is a renowned destination for serious duck hunters. Managed wetland impoundments and natural sloughs attract thousands of ducks and geese annually.
Sloughs WMA
Stretching along the Ohio River near Henderson, this area offers both draw hunts and open access for waterfowlers. Its mix of timber, swamps, and moist-soil management makes it ideal habitat for mallards, wood ducks, and teal.
Barren River Lake & Green River Lake
These reservoirs attract diving ducks like ringnecks, redheads, and scaup, along with puddle ducks when water levels flood adjacent fields and timber.
Ohio River and Mississippi River Bottomlands
River hunting can be unpredictable, but when the timing and weather align, large groups of geese and divers move through and offer incredible shooting.
Common Waterfowl Species in Kentucky
Mallards
Wood Ducks
Teal (Blue-winged & Green-winged)
Gadwall
Wigeon
Canvasback & Redhead
Canada Geese & Snow Geese
Kentucky Waterfowl Hunting Season & Regulations
Kentucky’s waterfowl season typically runs from late October through January, with specific dates for ducks, geese, and teal. Early teal and wood duck seasons are also available in September.
Before heading out:
Purchase a Kentucky hunting license
Get your state and federal waterfowl stamps
Complete the HIP survey
Follow daily bag limits and check regulations for the WMA or area you’re hunting
Up-to-date regulations are available at the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources.
Tips for a Successful Hunt
Scout ahead of time to find flight paths, feeding areas, and roosting spots
Use a good mix of decoys including confidence species like coots
Blend into your surroundings — concealment is critical in open marshes
Pay attention to weather patterns — cold fronts and rain push birds into the state
Work your calls wisely — don’t overcall; subtle calling often gets better results
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for high-quality waterfowl hunting that’s both challenging and rewarding, Kentucky delivers. With its rich mix of public access, managed lands, and abundant bird populations, hunters can enjoy a range of styles from timber hunts to layout boat shoots.
So grab your decoys, check your waders, and head to the wetlands — the birds are coming.