Both Barrels May 2026 - Otago

Mallard harvest numbers appear to have been lower across Otago on Opening Weekend — another reminder that a full-season licence offers opportunities right through until July 26.

Preliminary indications from the first round of harvest survey calls suggest mallard numbers were down compared with recent seasons.

Similar anecdotal reports have come from hunters and Fish & Game rangers across the region. Staff will provide more detailed analysis once harvest survey data has been compiled.

The good news is there is still plenty of season ahead:

• mallard hunting in Otago continues through to July 26,
• the upland game bird season opens on Saturday, May 30 (Kings’ Birthday Weekend),
• and black swan and paradise shelduck hunting continues until August 30.

Parries featured heavily in many Opening Weekend bags — not surprising given the high moult count this year. Clear, calm conditions on Opening Day saw mallards flying high, making them challenging for hunters trying to call birds in.

Even so, spirits remained high. Opening weekend is one of the biggest events in the rural calendar, bringing together hunters, whānau and mates from far and wide. While everyone loves bringing home some healthy, wild protein for the table, the season about much more than bag numbers. It’s about tradition, the banter and the time spent together outdoors.

Thanks to Otago hunters for overwhelmingly observing the regulations on Opening Weekend. Compliance was an excellent 97 percent. One hunter received an offence notice for hunting without a licence and using lead shot. Other offences included taking a grey teal and a pūkeko.

Our harvest survey calls will continue throughout the season. We appreciate hunters taking the time to answer these quick survey calls, which remain the best method we have to monitor hunter effort and harvest trends.

Stay up to date

• Read The Game Call for Otago’s latest game bird hunting news and tips this season. Your regional hunting report is emailed fortnightly to game bird licence holders and available on the Fish & Game website. Select the link above read more.
• Follow Otago Fish & Game on Facebook.
• Check out Where to Hunt – Otago on the Fish & Game website.

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!

A game bird season is a bit like local footy — players don’t sign up just for the opening game! There’s a whole season ahead.

If you missed Opening Weekend, day licences are now available. Grab a mate, take the dog and get out there! Select here for standard licence options.