A state waterfowl stamp may also be required. The Service randomly selects a small sample of hunters from all HIP registrants and asks them to provide information on the kind and number of migratory birds they harvest during the hunting season. This information is then used to develop reliable estimates of the total harvest of all migratory birds throughout the country, estimates that help us set bag limits and season lengths for the upcoming season. Hunters also must use steel shot or other approved shots while waterfowl hunting. Lead shot has been banned for waterfowl hunting in the United States since 1991, because of the toxic effect it has on waterfowl that ingest spent pellets.
Hunters have a choice of six non-toxic shots for the current waterfowl season.
Hunters also have a responsibility to understand and obey federal laws and regulations governing waterfowl baiting and dove baiting . You can be cited for hunting over bait if you know or reasonably should have known that the area you hunt has been baited. Take the time to inspect your hunting area and ask the landowner about any potential bait before beginning a hunt. The sale of hunting licenses, tags, and stamps is a major source of funding for State wildlife conservation efforts. Just by respecting seasons and limits, purchasing all required licences, and paying federal excise taxes on hunting equipment and ammunition, individual hunters make a big contribution towards ensuring the future of many species of wildlife and habitat for the future.