Duck Creek Hunting Update: August 2012

Early Season Migratory Bird Hunting

All early season migratory bird hunting will be allowed on Duck Creek through October 14. Hunt areas will include Pool 1 north of the posted white signs, Units A and B, Fishponds, Kinder Pool and Dark Cypress Swamp. Area regulations will follow statewide regulations. Remember, you may only use or possess non-toxic shot while hunting on this area. See the 2012 Migratory Bird Hunting Digest for season dates and shooting hours.

Units A and B Reconfiguration

Units A and B are a bit different than they used to be. Some of the pools and access roads will be familiar, but many of the recognizable landmarks such as tree lines and levees are no longer there. To take a look at the hunting positions map click "here" or go to link at the bottom of the page under "Related Information" and open the pdf on the next page.  This will illustrate the location of roads and parking areas for access to the hunting pools. We have attempted to retain as much familiarity with pool numbers as possible but it is definitely going to take some getting used to the alterations. One of the biggest changes in Unit A is the removal of the west boundary road and ditch which historically separated Unit A from Unit B. Unit A now consists of all the ground north of McGee Creek while Unit-B lies to the south.

The renovation of Units A and B is nearing completion; however, we are still waiting for the last and most important part to be finished. The wells and main water control structure are still not operational and it is presently uncertain when this is issue is going to be resolved. There is some water in the newly created scours that is already being utilized by early migrating birds. Hunting opportunity will be limited to these areas until the wells can be turned on or we receive substantial precipitation.

Teal and Early Goose Season

Teal hunting will be “self-check” utilizing the blue hunter sign-in cards and drop boxes at the HQ and parking areas on Highway Z and at Dark Cypress Swamp. Early Canada goose season will be allowed in a similar manner. Hunting is allowed opportunistically and will be available as long as it does not interfere with simultaneous management activity. It may become necessary to temporarily close portions of these areas for safety or logistical reasons as our staff and/or contractors are working in the area. This information will be posted at the sign-in areas if required. We are currently working on establishing and finishing access roads, parking areas, seeding and mulching the levees, getting signs and pool boundaries posted as well as preparing the units for the November waterfowl season. Please be patient with these activities concurrent with the teal season. Updates will be posted pertaining to the status of water pumping capability as soon as the information becomes available.

Thanks for your interest in the area and enjoy the beautiful weekend.