Wood Duck Hunting in Northern California: What You Need to Know
If you're a waterfowl hunter in California, few hunts are as exciting or rewarding as chasing wood ducks in Northern California. Known for their vibrant plumage and fast flight, wood ducks are a prized target and a true challenge for seasoned and new hunters alike. With over 30 years of guiding experience, Kirk Portocarrero offers some of the best guided wood duck hunting in Northern California.
Why Hunt Wood Ducks in Northern California?
Northern California is home to some of the most diverse and productive waterfowl habitats on the West Coast. Wood ducks thrive in this region thanks to its marshes, flooded timber, rice fields, and slow-moving waterways, all of which are ideal nesting and feeding grounds.
Here’s why wood duck hunting here is special:
Early Action: Wood ducks are often among the first birds to move at dawn, offering fast-paced action from the start.
Scenic Hunts: Hunt in flooded timber, creeks, and tucked-away ponds where the scenery is as rewarding as the hunt itself.
Abundant Birds: Northern California’s wood duck populations remain strong, thanks to conservation and habitat protection.
Best Time to Hunt Wood Ducks in California
Wood duck season in California typically begins with the waterfowl opener in late October and runs through January, with the best action often happening in the early season (October–November) when the birds are more active and less pressured. Early mornings during the first few weeks of the season tend to be the most productive, especially after the first major cold front or storm moves through and pushes new birds into the region.
What to Bring for a Successful Wood Duck Hunt
If you’re planning a guided duck hunt in Northern California with Kirk Portocarrero, much of the hard work is already taken care of, but here’s what we recommend bringing:
12 or 20 gauge shotgun, preferably with #3 or #4 shot
Camo gear, especially in darker tones (wood ducks love shadows and timber)
Waders for flooded timber or marsh setups
Face mask or paint for concealment
State and Federal Duck Stamps + California hunting license
A positive attitude, these birds are fast, so be ready!
Other Waterfowl and Upland Opportunities
In addition to wood ducks, Kirk also guides for:
Mallards, teal, and pintail
Late-season waterfowl
Wild pheasant and upland game (upon request)
Extend your trip or book multiple days to experience the full range of Northern California duck hunting at its best.
Book Your Wood Duck Hunt Today
With decades of experience hunting and fishing across Northern California, Kirk knows where the ducks are and how to put you on them. As a licensed guide and outfitter, he offers access to private lands and prime wood duck habitats not available to most hunters. If you're looking for an adrenaline-filled, early-season waterfowl hunt in California, wood duck hunting with Kirk Portocarrero is the way to go. Whether you're a local hunter or coming from out of state, we’ll make sure it’s a trip to remember.
