2022 San Jacinto Wildlife Area Junior Pheasant Hunt a Big Success

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s junior pheasant hunt, conducted on Sunday, November 6th, was a big success. 44 Junior Hunters were treated to a great hunt and came away with many memories.

Tom Trakes, of San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that there were 44 junior hunters in the field for the hunt and they bagged close to a bird and a half average on the pheasants with 62 birds being checked in.

After the hunt Quail Forever hosted a nice lunch consisting of sandwiches, chips, and soda that was enjoyed by all. A great day was had by all and a great way for some to begin their hunting career and others to continue to add to their hunting experience. In short, a great time was had by all.

I’ll let the pictures below tell most of the story…

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 11/30/22

The waterfowl average harvest at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area for Wednesday dropped a bit as compared to Saturday’s averages on a foggy morning that started out in the high-30s and ended up inj the afternoon with hazy skies topping out just short of 70. Shovelers took over first spot for the number of birds turned in with Green Wing Teal sliding down to the second position. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/30/22 were as follows:

95 adult and 2 junior hunters took home 45 Northern Shovelers, 7 Mallards, 31 Gadwall, 29 Widgeon, 40 Green Wing Teal, 6 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Redheads, 3 Canvasbacks, 10 Ring Necks, 13 Bufflehead, and 10 Ruddy Ducks. A lone Canada Goose was taken at San Jacinto on Wednesday. Also, 6 Coots were bagged at San Jacinto on Wednesday. This figured out to an average take of 2.02 ducks per hunter or, with the Goose and Coots added into the total, 2.09 waterfowl per gun. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 21 came in on time to claim their hunting spot.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area has begun its annual Toy Drive for the Bryant Park Head Start Preschool. If you’re able, please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the kids. Toys for donation should be targeted for 3 to 5-year-old boys and girls. This is a great program and a chance to show that hunters have a heart. Details of this year’s toy drive can be seen here:

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Annual Bryant Park Head Start Preschool Toy Drive Begins – Donations Needed

Also, don’t forget the Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt. Drawing for the prizes will be on December 22nd. Details here:

Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

In addition, (and completely separate from the Sportsman’s Warehouse raffle above), Bass Pro Shops and Quail Forever are teaming up from their own shotgun raffle, also to benefit the SJ Junior Hunt. There are two shotguns up for grabs in this one. Drawing for the prizes will be December 23rd. Details here:

Shotgun Raffle at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

BTW – since we’re on the subject of the Junior Hunt, if you are so inclined you can donate prizes or other items towards the event, which will be on February 4th, 2023. California State procedures for donating are detailed here (and it’s really not that tough, I’ve done it every year since the procedures were implemented):

New Procedures for Donations for the Annual Junior Hunt at San Jacinto Wildlife Area

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations on-line through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done after that. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW web site at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt, but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Hunt Results for Lake Perris, Wednesday – 11/30/22

The average waterfowl harvest for the boat hunters at Lake Perris dropped a bit compared to last Wednesday’s good average bag. Mallards held on to first place for number of birds taken with Gadwall retaining the second position, but this time tied with Redheads. John Rowe of Lake Perris reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/30/22 were as follows:

10 hunters took home 1 Northern Shoveler, 8 mallards, 4 Gadwall, 1 Pintail, and 4 Redheads. There were no Geese or Coots bagged by the Lake Perris boat hunters. This figured out to an average harvest of 1.80 ducks per hunter and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include in the total, 1.80 waterfowl per gun. Out of 9 reservations issued 5 boats came in on time to claim their spot.

Lake Perris is open for waterfowl hunting every Wednesday until noon. Hunting is done from BOATS ONLY and the drawing for this season’s hunting spots has already occurred. There will be no “sweat line” or alternates on the day of the hunt. There will be (9) boat in buoy locations each Wednesday that will be awarded by lottery in early August. For details on how to get in on the drawing for next season, the boat requirements, and other info for the Lake Perris waterfowl hunting program go to:

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=24697&fbclid=IwAR1qv7vt9_1HBOhfK9pRsNDxicHMqFFbbDwcwk9jFT5yiH0WPTShixSBEk8

Don’t forget that all licenses must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at Lake Perris. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses will be sold at Lake Perris.

Hunt Results for Kern National Wildlife Refuge, Wednesday – 11/23/22 and Saturday – 11/26/22

The waterfowl average harvest for the Kern National Wildlife Refuge for Wednesday ticked upward slightly as compared to Saturday’s great late opener. Shovelers took over the first spot for number of birds bagged with Gadwall slipping to the second spot. The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/23/22 were as follows:

24 adult hunters and 1 junior hunter took home 36 Northern Shovelers, 3 Mallards, 22 Gadwall, 8 Widgeon, 7 Pintail, 2 Green Wing Teal, 3 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, and 7 Bufflehead. No Geese were checked in at Kern on Wednesday. Also, 2 Coots were bagged on Wednesday. This figured out to an average harvest of 3.56 ducks per gun and, with the Coots included in the total, 3.64 waterfowl per person. Out of 5 reservations issued 3 hunters showed up in time to claim their spot.

The waterfowl average bag for the Kern National Wildlife Refuge for Saturday slipped back some as compared to Wednesday’s average. Shovelers held on to first place for number of birds turned in with Gadwall staying in the second position. The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for Saturday, 11/26/22 were as follows:

24 adult hunters and 1 junior hunter came away with 31 Northern Shovelers, 4 Mallards, 16 Gadwall, 4 Widgeon, 4 Pintail, 5 Green Wing Teal, 5 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Ring Neck, 1 Bufflehead, 1 Goldeneye, and 3 Ruddy Ducks. Again, no Geese were bagged at Kern on Saturday. 2 Coots were also taken on Saturday. This came out to an average take of 3.00 ducks per hunter and with the Coots included in the total, 3.08 waterfowl per gun. Out of 5 reservations issued 1 hunter arrived on time to claim his/her hunting spot.

Kern National Wildlife Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing. Hunters with reservations must present their reservation at the Hunter Check Station on the Refuge 2 1/2 hours before local shoot time. Vacancies occurring from no-show reservation holders and from hunters leaving the area shall be filled according to the order established in the standby drawing which occurs 2 hours before shoot time, the day of the hunt, and is performed at the Refuge Hunter Check Station. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link – Additional information may be obtained by calling Kern’s office at (661) 725-2767.

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1-day, 2-day, or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season.

Hunt Results for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 11/23/22, Saturday – 11/26/22, and Sunday – 11/27/22

The average waterfowl bag for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Wednesday jumped upward over Sunday’s average. Green Wing Teal took over first place for number of birds checked in with Cinnamon Teal dropping back to the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/23/22 were as follows:

104 adult and 7 junior hunters took home 6 Northern Shovelers, 1 Mallard, 21 Gadwall, 22 Widgeon, 49 Pintail, 101 Green Wing Teal, 59 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 15 Ring Necks, 12 Bufflehead, and 11 Ruddy Ducks. 26 Snow Geese were taken at Wister on Wednesday. 7 Coots were checked in on Wednesday. This resulted in an average harvest of 2.68 ducks per hunter or, with the Geese and Coots worked into the total, 2.98 waterfowl per person. Out of 105 reservation cards issued 28 showed on time to get their spot.

The waterfowl average take for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Saturday dropped back slightly from Wednesday’s averages. Green Wing Teal kept the first position for most birds downed with Cinnamon Teal holding on to the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Saturday, 11/26/22 were as follows:

167 adult and 15 junior hunters checked in with 10 Northern Shovelers, 4 Mallards, 45 Gadwall, 24 Widgeon, 57 Pintail, 132 Green Wing Teal, 118 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Canvasbacks, 13 Ring Necks, 2 Scaup, 21 Bufflehead, 1 Goldeneye, 3 Blue Wing Teal, 2 Mergansers, and 9 Ruddy Ducks. Also, there were 12 Snow Geese and 2 Greater White Front Geese bagged at Wister on Saturday. 2 Coots were taken at Wister on Saturday. This resulted in an average bag of 2.43 ducks per person or, with the Geese and Coots worked in, 2.52 waterfowl per gun. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 28 hunters arrived in time to claim their spot.

The waterfowl average bag for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Sunday dropped quite a bit from Saturday’s good averages. Green Wing Tea stayed in first spot for number of birds bagged with Cinnamon Teal still in the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sunday, 11/27/22 were as follows:

56 adult and 4 junior hunters downed 2 Northern Shovelers, 1 Mallard, 8 Gadwall, 4 Widgeon, 11 Pintail, 22 Green Wing Teal,14 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Canvasback, 2 Ring Necks, 1 Scaup, 2 Bufflehead, 1 Merganser, and 4 Ruddy Ducks. 2 Snow Geese were bagged at Wister on Sunday. 3 Coots were checked in on Sunday. This resulted in an average harvest of 1.22 ducks per gun or, with the Geese and Coots included, 1.30 waterfowl for each hunter. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 14 hunting parties arrived on time to claim their spot.

Wister is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. You can put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done the night before at 10:30 pm, with sign-up for the drawing between 7:30 and 10:30 pm. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

Hunt Results for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge, Wednesday – 11/23/22, Saturday – 11/26/22, and Sunday – 11/27/22

The waterfowl average harvest for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge nosedived for Wednesday compared to Sunday’s average.  There were no birds harvested at Sonny Bono on Wednesday.  The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Wednesday, 11/23/22 were as follows:

2 adult and no junior hunters failed to take any waterfowl.  Obviously, this resulted in a 0.00 average per hunter. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono.  Out of 105 reservation cards issued 28 arrived on time for their spot.

The waterfowl take for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Saturday had nowhere to go but up compared to Wednesday’s zero average.  Green Wing Teal came in at the first position for most birds harvested with Snow Geese taking the second spot.  The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Saturday, 11/26/22 were as follows:

11 adult and no junior hunters came away with 4 Gadwall, 1 Widgeon, 3 Pintail, 22 Green Wing Teal, 3 Cinnamon Teal, and 1 Bufflehead.  9 Snow Geese were also bagged in at Sonny Bono on Saturday. There were no Coots downed on Saturday. This figured out to an average take of 3.09 ducks per gun or, with the Geese included, 3.91 waterfowl per hunter. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 28 hunters showed up on time to get their spots.

The average waterfowl bag for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Sunday rocketed downward as compared to Saturday’s averages.  Snow Geese took over first position for most birds downed but there was no second place as no other birds were checked in.  The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Sunday, 11/27/22 were as follows:

3 adult and no junior hunters harvested no ducks and 2 Snow Geese on Sunday.  No Coots were bagged on Sunday.  This came out to an average per hunter take of 0.00 on the ducks and, with the Geese added, 0.67 waterfowl per person. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 14 people arrived in time to claim their spot.

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. If you would like a reservation for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge you have to request a Wister reservation through the California DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS) which can be used at Wister or Sonny Bono (check-in for your spot at Sonny Bono at the Wister Check station). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing at Wister for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of.  Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done the night before at 10:30 pm, with sign-up for the drawing between 7:30 and 10:30 pm. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge.  These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you’re the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days.  If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail.  No licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season.  You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Saturday – 11/26/22

The average take of waterfowl at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area for Saturday slipped slightly as compared to Wednesday’s averages under clear skies with temperatures that started out in the high-30s and ended up just over 70. Green Wing Teal held on to first position for the number of birds bagged with Shovelers staying in the second spot. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Saturday, 11/26/22 were as follows:

132 adult and 9 junior hunters came away with 75 Northern Shovelers, 9 Mallards, 52 Gadwall, 57 Widgeon, 3 Pintail, 83 Green Wing Teal, 11 Cinnamon Teal, 25 Ring Necks, 1 Scaup, 13 Bufflehead, 2 Blue Wing Teal, 1 Whistling Duck, 1 Merganser, and 10 Ruddy Ducks. A single Ross’ Goose was downed at San Jacinto on Saturday. 8 Coots were checked in at San Jacinto on Saturday. This worked out to an average bag of 2.43 ducks per person or, with the Goose and Coots included, 2.50 waterfowl per gun. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 28 arrived in time to get their hunting spot.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area has begun its annual Toy Drive for the Bryant Park Head Start Preschool. If you’re able, please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the kids. Toys for donation should be targeted for 3 to 5-year-old boys and girls. This is a great program and a chance to show that hunters have a heart. Details of this year’s toy drive can be seen here:
https://socalhunt.wordpress.com/2022/10/19/san-jacinto-wildlife-areas-annual-bryant-park-head-start-preschool-toy-drive-begins-donations-needed/

Also, don’t forget the Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt. Drawing for the prizes will be on December 22nd. Details here:

Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

In addition, (and completely separate from the Sportsman’s Warehouse raffle above), Bass Pro Shops and Quail Forever are teaming up from their own shotgun raffle, also to benefit the SJ Junior Hunt. There are two shotguns up for grabs in this one. Drawing for the prizes will be December 23rd. Details here:

Shotgun Raffle at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

BTW – since we’re on the subject of the Junior Hunt, if you are so inclined you can donate prizes or other items towards the event, which will be on February 4th, 2023. California State procedures for donating are detailed here (and it’s really not that tough, I’ve done it every year since the procedures were implemented):

New Procedures for Donations for the Annual Junior Hunt at San Jacinto Wildlife Area

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations on-line through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done after that. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW web site at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt, but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 11/23/22

The average harvest of waterfowl at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area for Wednesday dropped a tiny bit as compared to Saturday under clear skies that started out in the mid-30s and ended up in the mid-70s. Green Wing Teal took over the first spot for the number of birds checked in with Shovelers still holding on to the second spot. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/23/22 were as follows:

157 adult and 9 junior hunters took home 67 Northern Shovelers, 8 Mallards, 42 Gadwall, 61 Widgeon, 21 Pintail, 149 Green Wing Teal, 17 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 5 Canvasbacks, 17 Ring Necks, 1 Scaup, 13 Bufflehead, and 15 Ruddy Ducks. 1 Greater White Front Goose was taken at San Jacinto on Wednesday. 11 Coots were bagged at San Jacinto on Wednesday. This came out to an average take of 2.51 ducks per hunter or, with the Goose and Coots included, 2.58 waterfowl per gun. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 35 showed on time to get their hunting spot.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area has begun its annual Toy Drive for the Bryant Park Head Start Preschool. If you’re able, please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the kids. Toys for donation should be targeted for 3 to 5-year-old boys and girls. This is a great program and a chance to show that hunters have a heart. Details of this year’s toy drive can be seen here:

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Annual Bryant Park Head Start Preschool Toy Drive Begins – Donations Needed

Also, don’t forget the Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt. Drawing for the prizes will be on December 22nd. Details here:

Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

In addition, (and completely separate from the Sportsman’s Warehouse raffle above), Bass Pro Shops and Quail Forever are teaming up from their own shotgun raffle, also to benefit the SJ Junior Hunt. There are two shotguns up for grabs in this one. Drawing for the prizes will be December 23rd. Details here:

Shotgun Raffle at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

BTW – since we’re on the subject of the Junior Hunt, if you are so inclined you can donate prizes or other items towards the event, which will be on February 4th, 2023. California State procedures for donating are detailed here (and it’s really not that tough, I’ve done it every year since the procedures were implemented):

New Procedures for Donations for the Annual Junior Hunt at San Jacinto Wildlife Area

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations on-line through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done after that. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW web site at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt, but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Hunt Results for Lake Perris, Wednesday – 11/23/22

The waterfowl average bag for the boat hunters at Lake Perris jumped upward a lot compared to last Wednesday’s low average harvest. Mallards were number one for number of birds checked in with Gadwall in the second spot. John Rowe of Lake Perris reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/23/22 were as follows:

4 hunters checked in with 6 mallards, 2 Gadwall, 1 Pintail, and 1 Green Wing Teal. No Geese or Coots were downed by the Lake Perris boat hunters. This worked out to an average take of 2.50 ducks per gun and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include, 2.50 waterfowl per person. Out of 9 reservations issued 2 boats showed up in time to claim their hunting spot.

Lake Perris is open for waterfowl hunting every Wednesday until noon. Hunting is done from BOATS ONLY and the drawing for this season’s hunting spots has already occurred. There will be no “sweat line” or alternates on the day of the hunt. There will be (9) boat in buoy locations each Wednesday that will be awarded by lottery in early August. For details on how to get in on the drawing for next season, the boat requirements, and other info for the Lake Perris waterfowl hunting program go to:

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=24697&fbclid=IwAR1qv7vt9_1HBOhfK9pRsNDxicHMqFFbbDwcwk9jFT5yiH0WPTShixSBEk8

Don’t forget that all licenses must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at Lake Perris. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses will be sold at Lake Perris.

Hunt Results for Kern National Wildlife Refuge, Saturday – 11/19/22

The average take for the once again delayed 2022/23 waterfowl season opener for the Kern National Wildlife Refuge produced a great average take for the hunters in attendance. Gadwall came in first place for number of birds checked in with Shovelers showing up in the second spot.  The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for Saturday, 11/19/22 were as follows:

36 adult hunters and 1 junior hunter checked in with 34 Northern Shovelers, 5 Mallards, 51 Gadwall, 17 Widgeon, 6 Pintail, 3 Green Wing Teal, 3 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Bufflehead, 1 Goldeneye, and 2 Ruddy Ducks. There were no Geese or Coots checked in at Kern on Saturday.  This came out to an average harvest of 3.35 ducks per hunter and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include in the total, 3.35 waterfowl for each person. There was no information given regarding reservation cards issued and claimed.

Kern National Wildlife Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS).  Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing.  Hunters with reservations must present their reservation at the Hunter Check Station on the Refuge 2 1/2 hours before local shoot time. Vacancies occurring from no-show reservation holders and from hunters leaving the area shall be filled according to the order established in the standby drawing which occurs 2 hours before shoot time, the day of the hunt, and is performed at the Refuge Hunter Check Station. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link – Additional information may be obtained by calling Kern’s office at (661) 725-2767.

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1-day, 2-day, or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge.  These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days.  If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail.  As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season.

Hunt Results for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge, Wednesday – 11/16/22, Saturday – 11/19/22, and Sunday – 11/20/22

The waterfowl average take for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Wednesday dropped quite a bit for ducks, but went up when the geese harvested were added in, compared to Sunday’s average. Snow Geese took over first place for most birds bagged with Pintail found in the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Wednesday, 11/16/22 were as follows:

8 adult and no junior hunters came away with 1 Gadwall and 2 Pintail. 13 Snow Geese and 1 Ross’ Goose were downed on Wednesday. No Coots were bagged on Wednesday. This came out to an average take of 0.38 duck per gun or, with the Geese worked in, 2.13 waterfowl per person. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 105 reservation cards issued 24 showed up on time for their spot.

The waterfowl take for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Saturday went up somewhat for ducks but dropped a bit when the geese were added in compared to Wednesday’s averages. Snow Geese held on to the first position for most birds bagged with Green Wing Teal found in the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Saturday, 11/19/22 were as follows:

13 adult and no junior hunters checked in with 2 Northern Shovelers, 1 Gadwall, 1 Pintail, 7 Green Wing Teal, and 1 Cinnamon Teal. 10 Snow Geese were also checked in at Sonny Bono on Saturday. There were also 4 Coots checked in on Saturday. This came out to an average harvest of 0.92 ducks per person and, with the Geese and Coots included, 2.00 waterfowl per gun. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 32 hunting parties came in on time to claim their spots.

The average waterfowl bag for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Sunday nosedived from Saturday’s averages. Snow Geese retained first position for most birds bagged but there was no second place bird as only Snows were taken on Sunday. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Sunday, 11/20/22 were as follows:

5 adult and no junior hunters bagged zero ducks. 2 Snow Geese were harvested at Sonny Bono on Sunday. No Coots were bagged on Sunday. This came out to an average take of 0.00 ducks per person and, an average of 0.40 per gun for the Geese. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 27 hunting parties showed up on time to get their hunting spots.

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. If you would like a reservation for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge you have to request a Wister reservation through the California DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS) which can be used at Wister or Sonny Bono (check-in for your spot at Sonny Bono at the Wister Check station). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing at Wister for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done the night before at 10:30 pm, with sign-up for the drawing between 7:30 and 10:30 pm. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you’re the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

Hunt Results for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 11/16/22, Saturday – 11/19/22, and Sunday – 11/20/22

The average waterfowl harvest for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Wednesday ticked upward over Sunday’s average. Pintail took over first place for number of birds bagged with Widgeon holding on to second place joined by Green Wing Teal and Cinnamon Teal for a three-way tie. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/16/22 were as follows:

66 adult and 5 junior hunters came away with 16 Northern Shovelers, 3 Mallards, 13 Gadwall, 24 Widgeon, 26 Pintail, 24 Green Wing Teal, 24 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Redheads, 2 Canvasbacks, 2 Ring Necks, 3 Scaup, 1 Bufflehead, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Merganser, and 3 Ruddy Ducks. 10 Snow Geese were downed at Wister on Wednesday. A lone Coot was taken on Wednesday. This resulted in an average take of 2.07 ducks per person or, with the Geese and Coot added in, 2.23 waterfowl per gun. Out of 105 reservation cards issued 24 came in on time to claim their spot.

The waterfowl average bag for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Saturday went up a bit from Wednesday’s averages. Cinnamon Teal climbed into first position for most birds checked in with Pintail sliding back to the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Saturday, 11/19/22 were as follows:

164 adult and 4 junior hunters took home 20 Northern Shovelers, 13 Mallards, 32 Gadwall, 27 Widgeon, 56 Pintail, 54 Green Wing Teal, 92 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Canvasback, 22 Ring Necks, 3 Scaup, 11 Bufflehead, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Blue Wing Teal, 2 Mergansers, 1 Mexican Mallard, and 15 Ruddy Ducks. In addition, 54 Snow Geese were checked in at Wister on Saturday. No Coots were downed at Wister on Saturday. This resulted in an average harvest of 2.11 ducks per hunter or, with the Geese figured into the total, 2.43 waterfowl per person. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 32 hunters arrived on time to get their spot.

The waterfowl average bag for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Sunday dropped a ways from Saturday’s good averages. Cinnamon Teal held on to the first spot for number of birds taken with Green Wing Teal found in the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sunday, 11/20/22 were as follows:

86 adult and 4 junior hunters harvested 1 Northern Shoveler, 4 Mallards, 16 Gadwall, 6 Widgeon, 19 Pintail, 22 Green Wing Teal, 28 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 4 Ring Necks, 5 Scaup, 4 Bufflehead, and 6 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese were taken at Wister on Sunday. 5 Coots were turned in to the check station on Sunday. This resulted in an average take of 1.29 ducks per gun or, with the Coots included in the totals, an average of 1.34 waterfowl for each hunter. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 27 waterfowlers showed up on time to claim their hunting area.

Wister is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. You can put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done the night before at 10:30 pm, with sign-up for the drawing between 7:30 and 10:30 pm. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Saturday – 11/19/22

The waterfowl average take at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area for Saturday stayed almost the same as it was for Wednesday’s hunt under sunny skies with temperatures that started right at 50 and rose into the high-60s. Widgeon were exclusively in the first spot for the number of birds bagged this time with Shovelers sliding back to the second spot. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Saturday, 11/19/22 were as follows:

156 adult and 7 junior hunters checked in with 85 Northern Shovelers, 8 Mallards, 53 Gadwall, 86 Widgeon, 26 Pintail, 79 Green Wing Teal, 21 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 4 Canvasbacks, 21 Ring Necks, 2 Scaup, 19 Bufflehead, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Wood Duck, 1 Blue Wing Teal, and 25 Ruddy Ducks. 2 Snow Geese were bagged at San Jacinto on Saturday. Also, 7 Coots were downed at San Jacinto on Saturday. This figured out to an average bag of 2.67 ducks per gun or, with the Geese and Coots added in, 2.72 waterfowl per person. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 31 arrived on time to claim their hunting spot.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area has begun its annual Toy Drive for the Bryant Park Head Start Preschool. If you’re able, please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the kids. Toys for donation should be targeted for 3 to 5-year-old boys and girls. This is a great program and a chance to show that hunters have a heart. Details of this year’s toy drive can be seen here:

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Annual Bryant Park Head Start Preschool Toy Drive Begins – Donations Needed

Also, don’t forget the Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt. Drawing for the prizes will be on December 22nd. Details here:

Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

In addition, (and completely separate from the Sportsman’s Warehouse raffle above), Bass Pro Shops and Quail Forever are teaming up from their own shotgun raffle, also to benefit the SJ Junior Hunt. There are two shotguns up for grabs in this one. Drawing for the prizes will be December 23rd. Details here:

Shotgun Raffle at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

BTW – since we’re on the subject of the Junior Hunt, if you are so inclined you can donate prizes or other items towards the event, which will be on February 4th, 2023. California State procedures for donating are detailed here (and it’s really not that tough, I’ve done it every year since the procedures were implemented):

New Procedures for Donations for the Annual Junior Hunt at San Jacinto Wildlife Area

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations on-line through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done after that. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW web site at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt, but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 11/16/22

The average waterfowl bag at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area for Wednesday jumped up significantly compared to Saturday’s good average with sunny and somewhat windy weather and temperatures that started out in the mid-50s and only rose to the mid-60s. Shovelers and Widgeon shared the first spot for the number of birds checked in with Green Wing Teal taking over the second position. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/16/22 were as follows:

128 adult and 4 junior hunters came away with 81 Northern Shovelers, 11 Mallards, 29 Gadwall, 81 Widgeon, 8 Pintail, 70 Green Wing Teal, 4 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Redheads, 2 Canvasbacks, 33 Ring Necks, 3 Scaup, 17 Bufflehead, 2 Goldeneye, 1 Wood Duck, 2 Blue Wing Teal, and 9 Ruddy Ducks. 10 Snow Geese and 2 Ross’ Geese were downed at San Jacinto on Wednesday. In addition, 11 Coots were taken at San Jacinto on Wednesday. This came out to an average harvest of 2.69 ducks per person or, with the Geese and Coots included, 2.86 waterfowl per gun. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 37 showed up on time to get their hunting spot.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area has begun its annual Toy Drive for the Bryant Park Head Start Preschool. If you’re able, please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the kids. Toys for donation should be targeted for 3 to 5-year-old boys and girls. This is a great program and a chance to show that hunters have a heart. Details of this year’s toy drive can be seen here:

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Annual Bryant Park Head Start Preschool Toy Drive Begins – Donations Needed

Also, don’t forget the Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt. Drawing for the prizes will be on December 22nd. Details here:

Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

In addition, (and completely separate from the Sportsman’s Warehouse raffle above), Bass Pro Shops and Quail Forever are teaming up from their own shotgun raffle, also to benefit the SJ Junior Hunt. There are two shotguns up for grabs in this one. Drawing for the prizes will be December 23rd. Details here:

Shotgun Raffle at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

BTW – since we’re on the subject of the Junior Hunt, if you are so inclined you can donate prizes or other items towards the event, which will be on February 4th, 2023. California State procedures for donating are detailed here (and it’s really not that tough, I’ve done it every year since the procedures were implemented):

New Procedures for Donations for the Annual Junior Hunt at San Jacinto Wildlife Area

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations on-line through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done after that. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW web site at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt, but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Also, just a reminder. Kern NWR has delayed their opener until Saturday, November 19, 2022, due to water issues so, obviously, there will be no report on Kern’s results until after that date.

Hunt Results for Lake Perris, Wednesday – 11/16/22

The average waterfowl harvest for the boat hunters at Lake Perris dropped slightly compared to last Wednesday’s low average bag. John Rowe of Lake Perris reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/16/22 were as follows:

8 hunters took home 4 mallards, 1 Pintail, and 1 Widgeon. No Geese or Coots were checked in by the Lake Perris boat hunters. This worked out to an average take of 0.75 ducks per hunter and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include, 0.75 waterfowl per person. Out of 9 reservations issued 3 boats came in on time to get their hunting spot.

Lake Perris is open for waterfowl hunting every Wednesday until noon. Hunting is done from BOATS ONLY and the drawing for this season’s hunting spots has already occurred. There will be no “sweat line” or alternates on the day of the hunt. There will be (9) boat in buoy locations each Wednesday that will be awarded by lottery in early August. For details on how to get in on the drawing for next season, the boat requirements, and other info for the Lake Perris waterfowl hunting program go to:

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=24697&fbclid=IwAR1qv7vt9_1HBOhfK9pRsNDxicHMqFFbbDwcwk9jFT5yiH0WPTShixSBEk8

Don’t forget that all licenses must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at Lake Perris. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses will be sold at Lake Perris.
Also, just a reminder. Kern NWR has delayed their opener until Saturday, November 19, 2022, due to water issues so there will be no report on Kern’s results until after that date.

Shotgun Raffle at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt

Once again, Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga, along with Quail Forever are teaming up to sponsor a raffle to raise money to purchase prizes for San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl hunt, which will be held on Saturday, February 4th, 2023. Raffle tickets are available at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga (see below for a Google Maps link to Bass Pros Shop’s location):

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bass+Pro+Shops/@34.1128172,-117.5291929,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x80c34a185980b999:0x55a12fc2ca27c64a!8m2!3d34.1128128!4d-117.5270042?hl=en

There will be two shotguns available in this raffle. Both are Winchester Super X Waterfowl pump guns. All the money raised by this raffle will go to purchase prizes for San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt. Tickets are only $5 each! The drawing for the shotguns will be held on December 23rd, 2022, at 5:00 pm. Winners need not be present to win. All money from the raffle will be used to purchase prizes for the Junior Hunt giveaway.

In addition, if you’d like to support this great event for our Junior Hunters by donating prizes of your own you can do that by following the procedure laid out in the SoCalHunt post at the link below:

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s 28th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt Giveaway – Donations Needed

If you’d like to donate a prize or two (or more) for the Junior Hunt don’t let a little paperwork scare you. It’s not that hard, I know, I’ve done it every year since this requirement was put in place.

So, here’s a great chance to get a nice shotgun for a few bucks and support a great event for our Junior Hunters, the future of our sport.

Hunt Results for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge, Wednesday – 11/9/22, Saturday – 11/12/22, and Sunday – 11/13/22

The waterfowl take for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Wednesday ticked up a bit from Sunday’s dismal average. Pintail took over the first spot for most birds taken with Snow Geese, Gadwall, and Shovelers all tied for the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Wednesday, 11/9/22 were as follows:

10 adult and no junior hunters bagged 2 Northern Shovelers, 1 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 1 Widgeon, 3 Pintail, and 1 Merganser. 2 Snow Geese were downed on Wednesday. No Coots were bagged on Wednesday. This worked out to an average harvest of 1.00 duck per hunter or, with the Geese included in the total, 1.20 waterfowl per gun. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 105 reservation cards issued 24 arrived on time for their spot.

The waterfowl take for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Saturday slipped back a bit from Wednesday’s poor average. Cinnamon Teal climbed into first position for most birds bagged with Shovelers holding onto the second spot exclusively. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Saturday, 11/12/22 were as follows:

19 adult and 2 junior hunters checked in with 3 Northern Shovelers, 1 Mallard, 1 Gadwall, 2 Pintail, 1 Green Wing Teal, 5 Cinnamon Teal, and 1 Ring Neck. 2 Ross’ Geese were also bagged at Sonny Bono on Saturday. There were no Coots checked in on Saturday. This came out to an average bag of 0.67 ducks per gun and, with the Geese included, 0.76 waterfowl per hunter. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 31 hunting parties arrived on time to claim their spots.

The average waterfowl bag for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Sunday Actually went up slightly from Saturday’s poor average. Gadwall came in first for most birds checked in with Snow Geese (or I guess I should say Goose) in the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Sunday, 11/13/22 were as follows:

3 adult and no junior hunters bagged 3 Gadwall. A lone Snow Goose was harvested at Sonny Bono on Sunday. This came out to an average take of 1.00 duck per person and, with the Goose added into the total, 1.33 waterfowl per gun. Reservations are done through the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area and can be used for either Wister or Sonny Bono. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 17 hunting parties showed up in time to get their hunting spots.

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. If you would like a reservation for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge you have to request a Wister reservation through the California DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS) which can be used at Wister or Sonny Bono (check-in for your spot at Sonny Bono at the Wister Check station). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing at Wister for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done the night before at 10:30 pm, with sign-up for the drawing between 7:30 and 10:30 pm. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you’re the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

Also, just a reminder. Kern NWR has delayed their opener until Saturday, November 19, 2022, due to water issues so there will be no report on Kern’s results until after that date.

Hunt Results for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 11/9/22, Saturday – 11/12/22, and Sunday – 11/13/22

The waterfowl average take for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Wednesday headed upward a bit over Sunday’s low average. Pintail took over first place for number of birds taken with Shovelers found in the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/9/22 were as follows:

81 adult hunters and 1 junior hunter bagged 24 Shovelers, 5 Mallards, 7 Gadwall, 16 Widgeon, 30 Pintail, 9 Green Wing Teal, 15 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Redheads, 8 Ring Necks, 2 Blue Wing Teal, 1 Surf Scooter, and 4 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese were checked in at Wister on Wednesday. A lone Coot was checked in on Wednesday. This resulted in an average bag of 1.50 ducks per hunter or, with the Coot included, 1.51 waterfowl per person. Out of 105 reservation cards issued 24 arrived on time for their spot.

The waterfowl average harvest for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Saturday ticked up a bit from Wednesday’s fair averages. Cinnamon Teal showed up in the first position for most birds bagged with Snow Geese taking over the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Saturday, 11/12/22 were as follows:

126 adult and 7 junior hunters took home 36 Northern Shovelers, 9 Mallards, 14 Gadwall, 19 Widgeon, 33 Pintail, 14 Green Wing Teal, 52 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Canvasback, 18 Ring Necks, 6 Scaup, 1 Bufflehead, and 7 Ruddy Ducks. There were 49 Snow Geese and 1 Greater White Fronted Goose taken at Wister on Saturday. 4 Coots were also checked in on Saturday. This resulted in an average bag of 1.58 ducks per person or, with the Geese and Coots worked into the total, 1.98 waterfowl per hunter. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 31 hunters showed up in time to claim their spots.

The waterfowl average bag for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Sunday dropped a bit from Saturday’s good averages. Cinnamon Teal retained the first spot for number of birds checked in with Widgeon taking over the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sunday, 11/13/22 were as follows:

64 adult hunters and no junior hunter checked in with 8 Northern Shovelers, 10 Gadwall, 13 Widgeon, 7 Pintail, 9 Green Wing Teal, 15 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 1 Canvasback, 3 Ring Necks, 2 Mergansers, and 5 Ruddy Ducks. There were 11 Snow Geese and 1 Ross’ Goose bagged at Wister on Sunday. 7 Coots were also downed on Sunday. This resulted in an average harvest of 1.16 ducks per gun or, with the Geese and Coots included, 1.45 waterfowl per gun. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 17 waterfowlers arrived in time to get their hunting spot.

Wister is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. You can put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done the night before at 10:30 pm, with sign-up for the drawing between 7:30 and 10:30 pm. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW website at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. No licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

Also, just a reminder. Kern NWR has delayed their opener until Saturday, November 19, 2022, due to water issues so there will be no report on Kern’s results until after that date.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Saturday – 11/12/22

The average waterfowl harvest at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area for Saturday jumped upward a bit compared to Wednesday’s low average under partly cloudy skies with temperatures that started in the low-30s and topped out in the mid-60s. Shovelers held on to first position for the number of birds bagged with Buffleheads taking over the second spot. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Saturday, 11/12/22 were as follows:

129 adult and 7 junior hunters checked in with 45 Northern Shovelers, 7 Mallards, 21 Gadwall, 31 Widgeon, 3 Pintail, 27 Green Wing Teal, 5 Cinnamon Teal, 3 Redheads, 1 Canvasback, 27 Ring Necks, 5 Scaup, 42 Bufflehead, 6 Goldeneye, 2 Wood Ducks, 1 Blue Wing Teal, 1 Merganser, and 25 Ruddy Ducks. There were 2 Canada Geese and 6 Snow Geese taken at San Jacinto on Saturday. 10 Coots were also checked in at San Jacinto on Saturday. This figured out to an average take of 1.85 ducks per hunter or, with the Geese and Coots considered in the total, 1.99 waterfowl per gun. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 30 came in on time to claim their hunting spot.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area has begun its annual Toy Drive for the Bryant Park Head Start Preschool. If you’re able, please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the kids. Toys for donation should be targeted for 3 to 5-year-old boys and girls. This is a great program and a chance to show that hunters have a heart. Details of this year’s toy drive can be seen here:

https://socalhunt.wordpress.com/2022/10/19/san-jacinto-wildlife-areas-annual-bryant-park-head-start-preschool-toy-drive-begins-donations-needed/

Also, don’t forget the Shotgun and Hunting Equipment Raffle at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Murrieta to Benefit San Jacinto’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt.  Drawing for the prizes will be on December 22^nd.  Details here:

 https://socalhunt.wordpress.com/2022/10/23/shotgun-and-hunting-equipment-raffle-at-sportsmans-warehouse-in-murrieta-to-benefit-san-jacintos-29th-annual-junior-waterfowl-hunt/

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations on-line through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done after that. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW web site at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt, but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Also, just a reminder. Kern NWR has delayed their opener until Saturday, November 19, 2022, due to water issues so, obviously, there will be no report on Kern’s results until after that date.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 11/9/22

The waterfowl average bag at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area for Wednesday slipped back a little compared to Saturday’s fair average under partly cloudy skies with temperatures that started in the mid-40s and only rose to the mid-50s. Shovelers climbed into the first position for the number of birds checked in with Ring Necks showing up in the second spot. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Wednesday, 11/9/22 were as follows:

114 adult and 2 junior hunters checked in with 36 Northern Shovelers, 9 Mallards, 9 Gadwall, 11 Widgeon, 2 Pintail, 7 Green Wing Teal, 12 Cinnamon Teal, 20 Ring Necks, 3 Scaup, 5 Bufflehead, 1 Blue Wing Teal, and 19 Ruddy Ducks. There was a single Greater White Fronted Goose downed at San Jacinto on Wednesday. In addition, 2 Coots were taken at San Jacinto on Wednesday. This worked out to an average harvest of 1.16 ducks per person or, with the Goose and Coots added into the total, 1.18 waterfowl per hunter. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 25 showed on time to get their spot.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area has begun its annual Toy Drive for the Bryant Park Head Start Preschool. If you’re able, please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the kids. Toys for donation should be targeted for 3 to 5-year-old boys and girls. This is a great program and a chance to show that hunters have a heart. Details of this year’s toy drive can be seen here:

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Annual Bryant Park Head Start Preschool Toy Drive Begins – Donations Needed

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. You can put in for reservations on-line through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). Your reservation request has to be to the ALDS system 17 days in advance to get in on the drawing or you can get in on the daily “sweatline” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweatline” drawing is done after that. The ALDS can be accessed through the DFW web site at the below link –

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales

Don’t forget that all licenses and 1 day, 2 day or season passes must be purchased at a DFW Office or a license agent before your arrival at the refuge. These can be purchased online via the ALDS system also, however, you will have to wait for the DFG to mail you the actual licenses and passes which can take up to 15 days. If you purchase your license and passes in person at a DFW office or license agent, you immediately get them without the wait for the mail. As in past seasons, no licenses or passes will be sold at the check stations this season. You can also show up for an afternoon refill hunt, but the last refill is at 2 PM. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Also, just a reminder. Kern NWR has delayed their opener until Saturday, November 19, 2022, due to water issues so, obviously, there will be no report on Kern’s results until after that date.