Ohio Revised Waterfowl Hunting Zone Maps
State wildlife officials have reorganized regional hunting boundaries for the upcoming 2026-27 waterfowl season.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Hunting
Live Poll
Do you support the current approach to managing waterfowl hunting seasons in your area?
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife has updated state waterfowl hunting zones. Mercer and Auglaize counties are now officially part of Zone A.
Why it matters
These adjustments realign county groupings to streamline seasonal management across the state. The move clarifies regional rules for hunters planning their activities for the winter months.
Zone A now consists of Mercer, Auglaize, Shelby, and Van Wert counties. Regular hunting hours remain set from 30 minutes before sunrise through sunset.
The players
Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife
This state agency oversees the management of wildlife populations and regulates recreational hunting and fishing activities across Ohio.
The details
The state has restructured the zone system, placing Mercer and Auglaize counties within Zone A alongside Shelby and Van Wert. Duck and goose seasons in this zone will operate in two distinct segments throughout the fall and winter.
Timeline
October 3-4, 2026: Special youth and military waterfowl seasons.
October 17-November 1, 2026: First segment of duck and goose hunting.
November 14-December 27, 2026: Second segment of duck hunting.
November 14, 2026-February 1, 2027: Second segment of goose hunting.
Culture Shift
This reorganization follows the established framework of Ohio Administrative Code wildlife management regulations, which periodically mandate geographic boundary adjustments. Such updates are necessary to maintain sustainable wildlife populations while responding to shifting migratory patterns.
Hunters in Mercer and Auglaize counties must now adhere to Zone A seasonal dates, which include a split schedule for duck and goose harvesting. Residents should update their calendars to ensure compliance with the specific October and November date ranges.
The takeaway
Hunters should verify their specific zone requirements before heading out to areas like Grand Lake St. Marys. Planning ahead using the new 2026-27 zone map ensures that enthusiasts remain compliant throughout the split season segments.
Further reading
For more information on state requirements, visit Hunting.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wcsmradio.
Live Poll
Do you support the current approach to managing waterfowl hunting seasons in your area?
