Both Barrels June 2026 - Otago

The stories behind the season

Game bird hunting is about more than the harvest — it’s about the people, places and memories made along the way. In the latest editions of The Game Call, we’ve shared stories of families carrying on traditions, including Tara, Lee and Poppy Sutherland hunting with Grandad’s gear and creating their own memories together.

Image above: Lee, Poppy and mum Tara Sutherland started out their season on a Fish & Game-managed wetland. Photo: Bruce Quirey

We’ve also heard from hunters like Jonathan and Adam Wagstaff, and Scott and George Weatherall, who remind us that time spent outdoors together is often the real prize.
Read the full stories in The Game Call.

Mild weather making duck hunting a challenge

A calm morning on a South Otago river, looking for action. Photo: Bruce Quirey

A run of relatively mild, calm winter weather has made this season’s duck hunting interesting. Without the wind and rough conditions that often get birds moving, hunters have needed to put in extra time scouting and adapting.

Ducks are still around, but success has often come down to finding where birds are feeding and loafing — and being in the right place at the right time.

For more hunting tips, observations and regional updates, keep an eye on The Game Call.

Upland season gets underway

 A beautiful California cock quail harvested this season. Photo: Mason Court

The upland game bird season is underway, with hunters and their dogs getting out into Otago’s hills. Early season reports suggest the mild conditions have also influenced bird behaviour, with quail sometimes more scattered than expected.

The real reward? Time in the hills, working dogs and enjoying the experience. As one hunter put it, “it’s not really about the numbers”.

Stay up to date

Stay up to date with the latest upland hunting stories in The Game Call.

For Otago Fish & Game’s latest game bird hunting news, tips and regional updates this season, read The Game Call. Your regional hunting report is emailed fortnightly to game bird licence holders and available on the Fish & Game website.

Follow Otago Fish & Game on Facebook and check out Where to Hunt – Otago for hunting opportunities and advice.

Know the regulations

Before heading out, make sure you understand the game bird hunting regulations for the area you intend to hunt.

• Each Fish & Game region has its own set of regulations alongside national rules.
• Season dates and bag limits can vary between regions.
• Regulation booklets for every region are available on the Fish & Game website.

Play on!

We’re only halfway through the Otago mallard season. There’s a plenty of opportunity ahead.

Day licences are now available. Grab a mate, take the dog and get out there! Select here for standard licence options.