Arkansas Duck Season Faces Drought Challenges

Arkansas duck hunters are preparing for the upcoming fall season with a mixture of optimism and concern. While breeding conditions in the Prairie Pothole Region have shown improvement, a persistent drought within the state threatens to create significant challenges for hunters.

According to Brett Leach, Waterfowl Program Coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, overall duck populations have remained largely steady compared to last year. However, there was a notable 11% decline in mallards. This represents the lowest spring estimate for mallards in the region since 1993, sitting 26% below the long-term average. In contrast, shoveler populations increased by 19% and remain well above their historical average. Other species, including northern pintails and gadwalls, saw slight declines but remain statistically similar to previous years.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported approximately 4.8 million ponds in May. While this is a significant increase over 2025, the count remains 9% below the long-term average. Leach suggests that because breeding habitats improved from "poor" to "fair", there may be a higher volume of ducks during the fall migration than last year.

Despite these encouraging population numbers, local conditions in Arkansas remain a primary concern. The state is currently entering its 14th consecutive month of drought. Consequently, there is currently insufficient water to flood many of the traditional hunting areas typically prepared in late October and November.

While the National Weather Service predicts that the drought will persist through November 30, there is a silver lining on the horizon. Seasonal forecasts suggest above-normal precipitation from November through January. If these predictions hold true, the late-season rains could provide the essential water needed to revive Arkansas' traditional duck habitats.

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