Small Game, Waterfowl, Furbearer Regulations Set

Wed, 08/05/2026

North Dakota’s 2026 small game, waterfowl and furbearer regulations are set, with some noteworthy changes from last year.

These changes include:

Opening day for ducks, geese, coots and mergansers for North Dakota residents is Sept. 26. Nonresidents may begin hunting waterfowl in North Dakota on Monday, Oct. 5.
Starting Nov. 29, shooting hours for geese will be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset to the end of the respective goose season.
American marten will be allowed for take for the first time in 2026. The season will mirror the fisher season.
Fisher can now be trapped statewide, removing the restricted area in the Turtle Mountains where American martens are located.
River otter harvest will change to a three-week season, running from Nov. 23 through Dec. 13. Previously, the season was Nov. 23 through March 15, closing after the quota of 30 otters was met.

Hunters and trappers can find upland game, migratory game bird and furbearer/trapping regulations, on the Game and Fish website. Printed guides will be available at vendor locations.