Kern National Wildlife Refuge 2022/2023 Season Long Stats

The end of the 2022/2023 waterfowl season at the Kern National Wildlife Area revealed some interesting stats for the number of birds checked in and the per hunter average take.

Last season I did not do a comparison with the prior season as Kern had a delayed opening for the 21/22 season. For the 22/23 season, although Kear’s opener was delayed again due to water issues, it was the same delay as the 21/22 season so a fair comparison can be made.

1019 adult and 55 junior hunters (1074 hunters total) harvested a total of 1491 Northern Shovelers, 99 Mallards, 468 Gadwall, 296 Widgeon, 213 Pintail, 933 Green Wing Teal, 31 Cinnamon Teal, 23 Redheads, 13 Canvasbacks, 36 Ring Necks, 4 Scaup, 103 Bufflehead, 4 Goldeneye, 3 Blue Wing Teal, 1 Merganser, and 15 Ruddy Ducks. In addition, there was also 1 Canada Goose, 5 Snow Geese, and 14 White Fronted Geese taken at Kern this season. 21 Coots were also checked in for the 2022/2023 season at Kern. This figured out to a total of 3853 Ducks and Geese or, with the Coots included, 3874 waterfowl taken for the season. The per hunter average take for 2022/2023 season came out to 3.59 Ducks and Geese per hunter or, with the Coots added in, 3.61 waterfowl per hunter.

In comparison to last season, there were 49 more adult hunters this season over last and there were 10 fewer junior hunters for a total of 39 more hunters accommodated in the 2022/2023 season compared to the 2021/2022 season. (This includes the Junior Hunters from the Junior Hunt weekend and the Veteran/Active Duty Military personnel for the special military post-season hunt). As for the birds, I’ll list them with a plus by the number or a minus by the number to indicate how many more or less of each type of bird was bagged this season over last.

There were -323 Northern Shovelers, +30 Mallards, +147 Gadwall, -119 Widgeon, -117 Pintail, +146 Green Wing Teal, +43 Cinnamon Teal, -24 Redheads, +4 Canvasbacks, +15 Ring Necks, +3 Scaup, +1 Merganser (0 last season), +2 Bufflehead, +3 Goldeneyes, -1 Blue Wing Teal, and -1 Ruddy Duck.
As for the Geese numbers, there were +1 Canada Goose (0 last season), +4 Snow Geese, and +8 White Front Geese.

There was also +6 Coots bagged this season. This was a total of -250 Ducks and Geese taken and, with the Coots included, -244 waterfowl taken this season compared to last season. The per hunter averages were -0.37 Ducks and Geese or, with the Coots included, -0.37 waterfowl this season over last season.

So, there you have it, the year-long stats for the Kern National Wildlife Refuge. Kern started off a little slow this season once it was opened but ending up with some great averages the latter part of the season. Hopefully, next season won’t have a delayed opener. Hopefully, Kern will get the water they need for a regular opener and the breeding populations will do their thing up north and we’ll get the weather needed to drive the duck south early in the season and things will improve next season.

Hunt Results for Kern National Wildlife Refuge Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt, Saturday, 2/11/23

The average waterfowl take at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt resulted in an outstanding average for our Military Heroes. Shovelers took the first position for number of birds checked in with Green Wing Teal found in the second spot. The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for the Military Vet/Active Duty Hunt on Saturday, 2/11/23 were as follows:

17 Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters came away with 35 Shovelers, 12 Gadwall, 4 Widgeon, 5 Pintail, 17 Green Wing Teal, 9 Cinnamon Teal, and 2 Bufflehead. 2 Greater White Fronted Geese were taken by Vets/Active Duty Personnel at Kern on Saturday. No Coots were downed by Vets/Active Duty Personnel at Kern on Saturday. This worked out to an average harvest of 4.94 Ducks per hunter or, with the Geese consided in the total, 5.06 waterfowl for each Hunter. Out of 13 reservations cards issued 2 came in on time to claim their hunting spot.

So, there you have it, the final hunt of the 2022/2023 season for the Kern National Wildlife Refuge. Congratulations to all the Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters who participated in the harvest.

Watch here for the Kern National Wildlife Refuge season long stats report soon.

Wister 2022/2023 Season Long Stats

The end of the 2022/2023 season at the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area revealed the following stats for the number of birds taken and the hunter averages.

5232 adult and 243 junior hunters (5475 hunters total) checked in a total of 1030 Northern Shovelers, 263 Mallards, 699 Gadwall, 402 Widgeon, 1537 Pintail, 4835 Green Wing Teal, 2334 Cinnamon Teal, 18 Redheads, 14 Canvasbacks, 232 Ring Necks, 30 Scaup, 316 Bufflehead, 14 Goldeneyes, 37 Blue Wing Teal, 0 Wood Ducks, 3 Surf Scooters, 13 Mergansers, 1 Mexican Mallard, and 272 Ruddy Ducks. In addition, there were 2 Aleutian Geese, 1 Cackling Goose, 4 Canada Geese, 8 Ross’ Geese, 616 Snow Geese, and 13 White Front Geese bagged at Wister this season. 188 Coots were checked in for the 2022/2023 season. This worked out to a total of 12244 Ducks and Geese or, with the Coots added in, 12432 waterfowl. The per hunter average take for 2022/2023 figured out to 2.24 Ducks and Geese per hunter or, with the Coots included, 2.27 waterfowl per hunter.

In comparison to last season, there were 7 fewer adult hunters this season over last and there were 46 fewer junior hunters for a total of 53 fewer hunters accommodated in the 2022/2023 season compared to the 2021/2022 season. (This includes the Junior Hunters from the Junior Hunt weekend and the Veteran/Active Duty Military personnel for the special military post-season hunt). As for the birds, I’ll list them with a plus by the number or a minus by the number to indicate how many more or less of each type of bird was bagged this season over last.

There were -620 Northern Shovelers, +47 Mallards, +19 Gadwall, -382 Widgeon, +90 Pintail, +1544 Green Wing Teal, +1063 Cinnamon Teal, -16 Redheads, -9 Canvasbacks, +42 Ring Necks, -9 Scaup, +1 Mexican Mallard (0 last season), -1 Bufflehead, -3 Goldeneyes, -2 Wood Ducks (0 this season), +7 Blue Wing Teal, +4 Mergansers, +3 Surf Scooters, and -59 Ruddy Ducks.
As for the Geese numbers, there were +2 Aleutian Geese (0 last season), +1 Cackling Goose, -12 Canada Geese, +5 Ross’ Geese, +135 Snow Geese, and +2 White Front Geese.

There was also +14 Coots bagged this season. This was a total of +1393 Ducks and Geese taken and, with the Coots included, +1407 waterfowl taken this season compared to last season. The per hunter averages were +0.28 Ducks and Geese or, with the Coots included, +0.28 waterfowl this season over last season.

So, this season shows a decrease in some of the species of waterfowl taken, yet an increase in others, some very substantially. Of the species that showed a decrease, only Shovelers and Widgeon showed any substantial decrease with all the others only slightly decreasing. However, many of the species that showed an increase had quite a substantial increase. Also, the stats show a very slight drop-off in hunters utilizing Wister this season compared to last, but it was so small it was negligible, so hunter numbers were virtually the same as last season. Hopefully, we’ll get some weather up north early next season to drive the birds south. Also hopefully, we’ll have a large breeding population this year and more birds migrating down next season. Hope everyone has a great 23/24 waterfowl season.

Hunt Results for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt Weekend, Saturday – 2/11/23, Sunday – 2/12/23

The post season Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt at the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area resulted in a great average for the Hunters on Saturday. Shovelers were the most numerous bird taken with Green Wing Teal holding the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the waterfowl take for the Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt on Saturday, 2/11/23, were as follows:

48 Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters checked in with 71 Shovelers, 6 Mallards, 18 Gadwall, 13 Widgeon, 26 Pintail, 50 Green Wing Teal, 37 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Canvasback, 5 Bufflehead, and 7 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese were downed by the Hunters on Saturday. The Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters also checked in 1 Coot on Saturday. This came out to an average bag of 4.88 Ducks per gun or, with the Coot included, 4.90 waterfowl per person. Out of 100 reservations issued, 20 arrived on time for their spot.

The average harvest of waterfowl for Sunday, the second day of the Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt weekend, at the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area produced another great average. Shovelers held the first spot for number of birds taken with Cinnamon Teal taking over the second position. The Wister Staff reported the waterfowl take for the Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt on Sunday, 2/12/23 were as follows:

40 Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters took home 38 Shovelers, 1 Mallard, 8 Gadwall, 7 Widgeon, 16 Pintail, 31 Green Wing Teal, 32 Cinnamon Teal, and 4 Ruddy Ducks. There were no Geese harvested by the Hunters on Sunday. No Coots were taken on Sunday. This figured out to an average harvest of 3.43 ducks per Hunter and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include in the total, 3.43 waterfowl per gun. Out of 100 reservations issued 17 showed up to claim their spot.

With that, the 2022/2023 Waterfowl Season at the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area is in the books. Watch for SoCalHunt’s Season-Long Stats report for Wister coming here soon.

Hunt Results for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife RefugeMilitary Vets/Active Duty Hunt Weekend, Saturday – 2/11/23, Sunday – 2/12/23

The post season Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt at the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge resulted in a good average for the Hunters on Saturday. Snow Geese were found in first place for most birds taken with Shovelers and Green Wing Teal tied in the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the waterfowl take for the Sonny Bono Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt on Saturday, 2/11/23, were as follows:

6 Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters checked in with 4 Shovelers, and 4 Green Wing Teal. 5 Snow Geese were checked in by the Hunters on Saturday. No Coots were bagged on Saturday. This came out to an average of 1.33 Ducks per hunter or, with the Geese added in, 2.17 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 100 reservations issued, 20 arrived on time for their spot.

The average harvest of waterfowl for Sunday, the second day of the Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt weekend, at the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge produced great average take. Snow Geese and Shovelers tied for first place for number of birds taken with Cinnamon Teal found in the second position. The Wister Staff reported the waterfowl take for the Sonny Bono Military Vets/Active Duty Hunt on Sunday, 2/12/23 were as follows:

3 Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters took home 6 Shovelers, 2 Gadwall, 4 Green Wing Teal, and 5 Cinnamon Teal. 6 Snow Geese were brought into the check station by the Hunters on Sunday. No Coots were checked in on Sunday. This figured out to an average harvest of 5.67 Ducks per person or, with the Geese added into the count, 7.67 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 100 reservations issued 17 arrived on time to claim their hunting spot.

So, that’s it for the 2022/2023 Waterfowl Season at the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge. Watch for SoCalHunt’s Season-Long Stats report for Sonny Bono coming here soon.

San Jacinto Wildlife Area 2022/2023 Season Long Stats

The conclusion of the 2022/2023 waterfowl season at San Jacinto Wildlife Area showed some interesting stats for the number of birds harvested and the per hunter averages.

4313 adult and 238 junior hunters (4551 hunters total) harvested a total of 2734 Northern Shovelers, 198 Mallards, 823 Gadwall, 683 Widgeon, 364 Pintail, 2800 Green Wing Teal, 683 Cinnamon Teal, 30 Redheads, 26 Canvasbacks, 470 Ring Necks, 21 Scaup, 314 Bufflehead, 15 Goldeneye, 6 Wood Ducks, 12 Blue Wing Teal, 8 Mergansers, 1 Whistling Duck, and 432 Ruddy Ducks. In addition, there were also 1 Aleutian Goose, 3 Cackling Geese, 9 Canada Geese, 3 Ross’ Goose, 19 Snow Geese, and 18 White Front Geese taken at San Jacinto this season. 349 Coots were also checked in for the 2022/2023 season at SJ. This figured out to a total of 9673 Ducks and Geese or, with the Coots included, 10022 waterfowl taken for the season. The per gun average take for 2022/2023 season came out to 2.13 Ducks and Geese per hunter or, with the Coots added in, 2.20 waterfowl per hunter.

In comparison to last season, there were 31 more adult hunters this season over last and there were 65 fewer junior hunters for a total of 34 fewer hunters accommodated in 2022/2023 season compared to the 2021/2022 season. (This includes the Junior Hunters from the Junior Hunt and the Veteran/Active Duty Military personnel for the special military post-season hunt). As for the birds, I’ll list them with a plus by the number or a minus by the number to indicate how many more or less of each type of bird was bagged this season over last.

There were -99 Northern Shovelers, -57 Mallards, +88 Gadwall, +247 Widgeon, +58 Pintail, +462 Green Wing Teal, +296 Cinnamon Teal, -11 Redheads, -5 Canvasbacks, +231 Ring Necks, +4 Scaup, +23 Bufflehead, -20 Goldeneye, +6 Wood Ducks, +8 Blue Wing Teal, -9 Mergansers, +1 Whistling Duck (0 last season), and +124 Ruddy Ducks.

For the Goose numbers there were -1 Aleutian Goose, +1 Cackling Goose, +1 Canada Goose, +2 Ross’ Geese, +9 Snow Geese, and +17 White Front Geese.

There were also +46 Coots bagged this season. This was a total of +1374 Ducks and Geese taken compared to last season and, with the Coots included, +1420 waterfowl taken this season compared to last season. The per hunter averages were +0.32 Ducks and Geese or, with the Coots included, +0.32 waterfowl this season over last season.

In contrast to last season, these numbers show overall an upward trend in general although some species’ take was up and others were down over last season. There were also slightly more adult hunters but slightly fewer junior hunters this season than last which resulted in a slight decrease in total hunters utilizing San Jacinto. The per hunter average take showed those hunters taking more birds, showing an increase in the per hunter average. Hopefully, we’ll get some good rains between now and the end of our rainy season to continue refilling Mystic Lake which got a start with our recent rains, and we’ll get some well-timed weather up north early next season to send the birds down to us. We can also optimistically hope there will be a great spring hatch up north and the numbers will rise for the 2023/2024 season.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Veteran/Active Duty Military Hunt, Saturday – 2/11/23

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s Veteran/Active Duty Military Hunt on Saturday, February 11th, resulted in a great average harvest for our Military Heroes participating. Shovelers were the number one bird checked in by the Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters with Green Wing Teal in the second position. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the waterfowl take for the Veteran/Active Duty Military Hunt on Saturday, 2/11/23, was as follows:

91 Military Vets/Active Duty Hunters came away with 188 Northern Shovelers, 4 Mallards, 27 Gadwall, 8 Widgeon, 34 Pintail, 88 Green Wing Teal, 61 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 4 Ring Necks,1 Scaup, 8 Bufflehead, and 13 Ruddy Ducks. 4 Canada Geese were bagged by the Hunters on Saturday. 9 Coots were checked in by the Veteran/Active Duty Military Hunters on Saturday. This worked out to an average harvest of 4.80 Ducks per hunter or, with the Geese and Coots considered in the total, a 4.95 waterfowl average for each gun. Tom advised that out of 52 reservations issued 25 showed up in time to claim their hunting spot.

So, that completes the 2022/2023 Waterfowl Season at San Jacinto Wildlife Area. Watch for SoCalHunt’s San Jacinto season long stats report here soon.

On a side note, today’s Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt was the last hunt day in the long career of Tom Trakes. Tom has worked for the Department of Fish and Wildlife for 29 years and anybody that know Tom knows the SJWA will not be the same without him. The DFW has some big shoes to fill at San Jacinto and, hopefully they can find someone with at least half the dedication and customer service that Tom has. I’m sure everyone will join me in wishing Tom a great retirement.

Hunt Results for Kern National Wildlife Refuge Junior Hunt, Saturday, 2/4/23

The waterfowl average bag at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge Junior Hunt resulted in a great average for the Junior Hunters in attendance. Shovelers appeared in first position for number of birds bagged with Green Wing Teal taking the second spot. The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for the Junior Hunt on Saturday, 2/4/23 were as follows:

27 junior hunters took home 41 Shovelers, 6 Gadwall, 4 Widgeon, 6 Pintail, 20 Green Wing Teal, 11 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Ring Neck, 1 Scaup, and 2 Bufflehead. 2 Greater White Fronted Geese were checked in by the Junior Hunters at Kern on Saturday. No Coots were downed by the Juniors on Saturday. This figured out to an average take of 3.41 Ducks per Junior Hunter or, with the Geese figured into the total, 3.48 waterfowl for each Junior Hunter. There was no information given on reservation cards issued or claimed.

If you’re a Veteran or an Active-Duty Military Member you have one more chance at Kern this season. The after season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt which will be held on Saturday, February 11th at Kern NWR. Hopefully, our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you don’t have a reservation for the Vets/Military Hunt you can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at the Kern Hunter Check Station on the Refuge 2 ½ hours before local shoot time and the “sweat line” drawing is performed 2 hours before shoot time, the day of the hunt, also at the Refuge Hunter Check Station. Additional information may be obtained by calling Kern’s office at (661) 725-2767.And, of course, thanks for your service.

Hunt Results for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area Junior Hunt Weekend, Saturday – 2/4/23, Sunday – 2/5/23

The Junior Waterfowl Hunt weekend at the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area yielded a good average bag for the Junior Hunters in attendance on Saturday. Green Wing Teal were found in the first position for most birds bagged with Shovelers holding the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the waterfowl take for the Junior Hunt on Saturday, 2/4/23, was as follows:

24 Junior Hunters came away with 12 Shovelers, 10 Mallards, 1 Gadwall, 1 Widgeon, 5 Pintail, 13 Green Wing Teal, 5 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Bufflehead, and 4 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese or Coots were bagged by the Junior Hunters on Saturday. This came out to an average bag of 2.21 Ducks per Junior Hunter and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to add to the total, 2.21 waterfowl per Junior Hunter. Out of 104 reservation cards issued to the Junior Hunters 12 arrived on time to claim their spot.

The average harvest of waterfowl for Sunday, the second day of the Junior Hunt weekend, at the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area dropped a bit from Saturday’s average. Coots came in at the first position for most numerous bird taken with Green Wing Teal dropping back to the second spot. The Wister Staff reported the waterfowl harvest for the Junior Hunt on Sunday, 2/5/23 was as follows:

15 Junior Hunters bagged 4 Shovelers, 2 Mallards, 2 Gadwall, 5 Widgeon, 1 Pintail, 6 Green Wing Teal, and 4 Cinnamon Teal. No Geese were checked in at the Junior Hunt on Sunday. 8 Coots were taken by the Junior hunters on Sunday. 4 Snipe were also reported taken by the Junior Hunters. This worked out to an average take of 1.60 Ducks per Junior Hunter or, with the Coots included, 2.13 waterfowl per Junior Hunter. Out of 104 reservation cards issued to the Junior Hunters 8 showed up on time to get their spot.

If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member you have two more chance this season. The after-season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt, which will be held on Saturday and Sunday, February 11th and 12th at Wister. Hopefully, our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you don’t have a reservation for the Vets/Military Hunt you can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at Wister to get in on the drawing by 10:30 PM the night before. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweat line” spots given out after that. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577. And, of course, thanks for your service.

Hunt Results for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge Junior Hunt Weekend, Saturday – 2/4/23, Sunday – 2/5/23

The Junior Waterfowl Hunt weekend at the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge yielded an awesome average bag for the Junior Hunter participating on Saturday. Shovelers held the first position for the most birds checked in with Ruddy Ducks found in the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the waterfowl take for the Junior Hunt at Sonny Bono on Saturday, 2/4/23, was as follows:

1 Junior Hunter took home 4 Shovelers, and 3 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese or Coots were taken by the Sonny Bono Junior Hunter on Saturday. This came out to an average take of 7.00 Ducks per Junior Hunter and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include in the total, 7.00 waterfowl for the Junior 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 to the Junior Hunters 12 came in on time to get their spot.

No Junior Hunters utilized the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge on Sunday, the second day of the Junior Hunt weekend.

If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member you have two more chances to hunt Sonny Bono this season. The after-season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt, which will be held on Saturday and Sunday, February 11th and 12th at Sonny Bono. Hopefully, our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you don’t have a reservation for the Vets/Military Hunt you can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at Wister to get in on the drawing by 10:30 PM the night before. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweat line” spots given out after that. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577. And, of course, thanks for your service.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s 29th Annual Junior Hunt, Saturday – 2/4/23

San Jacinto Wildlife Area’s 29th Annual Junior Waterfowl Hunt on Saturday, February 4th, resulted in a very good average bag for the Junior Hunters in participating. Shovelers were the number one bird taken by the Junior Hunters with Green Wing Teal found in the second spot. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the waterfowl harvest for the Junior Hunt on Saturday, 2/4/23, was as follows:

74 junior hunters came away with 85 Northern Shovelers, 2 Mallards, 6 Gadwall, 1 Widgeon, 6 Pintail, 62 Green Wing Teal, 26 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Ring Necks, 9 Bufflehead, and 4 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese were bagged by the Junior Hunt on Saturday. There were also 3 Coots checked in by the Junior Hunters on Saturday. This figured out to an average bag of 2.74 Ducks per Junior Hunter or, with the Coots included in the total, a 2.78 waterfowl average for each Junior Hunter. Tom advised that out of 50 reservations issued 21 of the Junior Hunters showed up on time to get their spot.

Ok, that’s it for the Junior Hunters for the 2022/2023 season. If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member you also have one more chance this season. The after season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt, which will be held next Saturday, February 11th at San Jacinto. Hopefully our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you don’t have a reservation for the Vets/Military Hunt you can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at SJ at 3 AM to get your name in on the sweatline drawing. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580. And, to all our Vets and Active Duty, thank you for your service.

Lake Perris 2022/2023 Season Long Stats

The end of the 2022/2023 waterfowl season at the Lake Perris State Recreation Area revealed some interesting stats for the number of birds checked in and the per-hunter average take.
Mallards were way out in front for most numerous bird checked in with Gadwall taking the second spot. The totals for the 2022/2023 Waterfowl Season at Lake Perris were as follows:

21 hunters harvested a total of 7 Northern Shovelers, 68 Mallards, 16 Gadwall, 7 Widgeon, 5 Pintail, 4 Green Wing Teal, 2 Cinnamon Teal, 4 Redheads, 2 Ruddy Ducks, 1 Merganser, and 6 Ducks only identified as “Other”. There were no Geese taken at Lake Perris this season. 4 Coots were also checked in for the 2022/2023 season at Lake Perris. This figured out to a total of 122 Ducks and, with the Coots included, 126 waterfowl taken for the season. The per hunter average take for the 2022/2023 season came out to 1.01 Ducks per hunter or, with the Coots added in, 1.04 waterfowl per hunter.

This is where I would usually compare this season’s counts and averages and the + or – on the number of each species taken this season compared to last season but due to fact that this is the first season in 17 years at Lake Perris, obviously there are no stats from last year to compare to.

So, there you have it, the year-long stats for the Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Overall Lake Perris had poor averages most of the season. Hopefully, for next season some adjustments can be made at Lake Perris, perhaps in hunting areas and hunting buoy locations, to hopefully improve the results over this season. All we need now is for the breeding populations up north to do their thing and hopefully we’ll get the weather needed to drive the birds south early in the season and things will improve next season.

Hunt Results for Lake Perris, Wednesday – 1/25/23

The average waterfowl bag for the boat hunters at Lake Perris nosedived as compared to last Wednesday’s average. Mergansers (actually Merganser) were (was) found in first position for number of birds harvested with no other birds taken so no second spot. John Rowe of Lake Perris reported that the results for Wednesday, 1/25/23 were as follows:

7 hunters checked in with 1 Merganser. No Geese or Coots were taken by the Lake Perris boat hunters. This came out to an average bag of 0.14 Ducks per gun and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to add to the total, 0.14 waterfowl per person. Out of 9 reservations issued 3 boats showed up on time to claim their spot.

So, that’s it for Lake Perris’ first waterfowl season in 17 years. If the same rules apply next season Lake Perris will be open to waterfowl hunting every Wednesday until noon. Hunting will be done from BOATS ONLY and the drawing for the season’s hunting spots will likely occur sometime in early August. Most likely there will again be no “sweat line” or alternates on the day of the hunt next season. Also likely is that there will be (9) boat in buoy locations each Wednesday that will be awarded by early August lottery. 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

Watch for SoCalHunt’s report on Lake Perris’ season-long stats here on SoCalHunt very soon.

Hunt Results for Kern National Wildlife Refuge, Saturday – 1/28/23

The average waterfowl bag at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge for Saturday dropped back somewhat as compared to Wednesday’s great average. Shovelers remained in the first position for number of birds checked in with Green Wing Teal still holding on in second place. The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for Saturday, 1/28/23 were as follows:

67 adult and 5 junior hunters went home with 98 Northern Shovelers, 2 Mallards, 33 Gadwall, 4 Widgeon, 12 Pintail, 57 Green Wing Teal, 16 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 1 Ring Neck, 7 Bufflehead, and 4 Ruddy Ducks. 2 Greater White Fronted Geese were downed at Kern on Saturday. No Coots were bagged at Kern on Saturday. This figured out to an average take of 2.74 Ducks per hunter or, with the Geese added to the count, 2.76 waterfowl per gun. Out of 9 reservation cards issued 3 arrived on time to claim their hunting spot.

So, that’s it for the 2022/2023 regular waterfowl season. Junior hunters have one more chance at those elusive waterfowl, on Saturday, February 4th. If you’re a junior hunter or you have a junior hunter in the family you can hunt Kern’s Junior Waterfowl hunt on Saturday, 2/4/23. Here’s hoping the Juniors have a great hunt! If your junior hunter doesn’t have a reservation for the Junior Hunt he or she can still get in on the drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out at the Hunter Check Station on the Refuge 2 ½ hours before local shoot time and the “sweat line” drawing is performed 2 hours before shoot time, the day of the hunt, also at the Refuge Hunter Check Station. Additional information may be obtained by calling Kern’s office at (661) 725-2767.

If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member you also have one more chance this season. The after-season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt which will be held on Saturday, February 11th. Hopefully our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you’re a veteran or active duty military and don’t have a reservation for the veteran/active duty hunt you can still get in on the drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out at the Hunter Check Station on the Refuge 2 ½ hours before local shoot time and the “sweat line” drawing is performed 2 hours before shoot time, the day of the hunt, also at the Refuge Hunter Check Station. Additional information may be obtained by calling Kern’s office at (661) 725-2767.

Hunt Results for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 1/25/23, Saturday – 1/28/23, and Sunday – 1/29/23

The average waterfowl take for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Wednesday jumped upward a good bit as compared to Sunday’s averages. Green Wing Teal took over the first position for most birds taken with Shovelers found in the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Wednesday, 1/25/23 were as follows:

129 adult and 3 junior hunters came away with 50 Northern Shovelers, 6 Mallards, 44 Gadwall, 7 Widgeon, 37 Pintail, 153 Green Wing Teal, 37 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Canvasback, 2 Ring Necks, 1 Scaup, 12 Bufflehead, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Blue Wing Teal, and 5 Ruddy Ducks. 17 Snow Geese were checked in at Wister on Wednesday. 5 Coots were downed at Wister on Wednesday. This resulted in an average bag of 2.72 Ducks per person or, with the Geese and Coots worked into the total, 2.89 waterfowl per hunter. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 29 arrived on time to claim their hunting spot.

The waterfowl average bag for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Saturday ticked up a bit compared to Wednesday’s average. Green Wing Teal retained first place for most birds bagged with Shovelers likewise holding on to second place. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Wister for Saturday, 1/28/23 were as follows:

228 adult and 7 junior hunters harvested 92 Northern Shovelers, 10 Mallards, 57 Gadwall, 21 Widgeon, 80 Pintail, 317 Green Wing Teal, 75 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Blue Wing Teal, 1 Redhead, 1 Ring Neck, 1 Scaup, 25 Bufflehead, and 2 Ruddy Ducks. 1 Snow Goose and 1 Greater White Fronted Goose were harvested at Wister on Saturday. 12 Coots were downed at Wister on Saturday. This came out to an average bag of 2.91 Ducks per person or, with the Geese and Coots included, 2.97 waterfowl per hunter. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 29 showed up in time to get their hunting spot.

The waterfowl average bag for the Wister Unit of the Imperial Wildlife Area for Sunday slid back downward quite a bit as compared to Saturday’s averages. Green Wing Teal, once again, were in the first spot for most birds taken with Cinnamon Teal taking over the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Wister for Sunday, 1/29/23 were as follows:

113 adult and 2 junior hunters bagged 29 Northern Shovelers, 3 Mallards, 19 Gadwall, 4 Widgeon, 28 Pintail, 58 Green Wing Teal, 42 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Ring Neck, 2 Scaup, 7 Bufflehead, and 4 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese were checked in at Wister on Sunday. 6 Coots were also taken at Wister on Sunday. This worked out to an average take of 1.71 Ducks per gun or, with the Coots added into the total, 1.77 waterfowl per person. Out of 104 reservation cards issued 21 hunters showed on time to claim their spot.

So, the 2022/2023 regular waterfowl season is in the books. Junior hunters have two more chances at the ducks at Wister, next weekend, February 4th and 5th. If you’re a junior hunter or you have a junior hunter in the family you can get in on the Junior Waterfowl hunt on Saturday and Sunday, 2/4 & 2/5/23. If your junior hunter doesn’t have a reservation for the Junior Hunt weekend he or she can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at Wister to get in on the drawing by 10:30 PM the night before. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweat line” spots given out after that. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member you also have two more chances this season. The after-season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt will be held on Saturday and Sunday, February 11th and 12th at Wister. Hopefully, our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you don’t have a reservation for the Vets/Military Hunt you can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at Wister to get in on the drawing by 10:30 PM the night before. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweat line” spots are given out after that. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577. And, of course, thanks for your service.

Hunt Results for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge, Wednesday – 1/25/23, Saturday – 1/28/23, and Sunday – 1/29/23

The waterfowl average bag for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Wednesday had nowhere to go but up, which it did impressively compared to Sunday’s dismal average. Green Wing Teal were found in the first spot for most birds taken with Pintail taking the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Wednesday, 1/25/23 were as follows:

7 adult and no junior hunters took home 1 Gadwall, 3 Widgeon, 5 Pintail, and 20 Green Wing Teal. 1 Snow Goose was downed at Sonny Bono on Wednesday. No Coots were bagged on Wednesday. This came out to an average take of 4.14 Ducks per hunter or, with the Goose worked into the total, a 4.29 per gun average. 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 29 showed up on time for their spot.

The waterfowl average harvest for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Saturday dropped back quite a bit compared to Wednesday’s average. Green Wing Teal held on to the first position for most birds bagged with Shovelers climbing into the second spot. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Saturday, 1/28/23 were as follows:
28 adult and no junior hunters came away with 10 Northern Shovelers, 4 Gadwall, 6 Pintail, 34 Green Wing Teal, and 3 Cinnamon Teal. A lone Snow Goose was also harvested at Sonny Bono on Saturday. No Coots were bagged at Sonny Bono on Saturday. This came out to an average take of 2.04 Ducks per gun or, with the Goose added in, 2.07 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 29 came in on time to get their hunting spot.

The waterfowl average harvest for the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for Sunday dropped back some more as compared to Saturday’s averages. Shovelers took over the first spot for most birds taken with Gadwall, Widgeon, and Green Wing Teal all tied for the second position. The Wister Staff reported that the results for Sonny Bono for Sunday, 1/29/23 were as follows:

9 adult and no junior hunters checked in with 3 Northern Shovelers, 2 Gadwall, 2 Widgeon, and 2 Green Wing Teal. No Geese or Coots were brought in at Sonny Bono on Sunday. This came out to an average take of 1.00 Ducks per gun and, pf course, with no Geese or Coots to add in, 1.00 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 21 hunters showed up on time to get their spot.

So, the 2022/2023 regular waterfowl season is in the books. Junior hunters have two more chances at the ducks at Sonny Bono accessed through Wister of course, next weekend, February 4th and 5th. If you’re a junior hunter or you have a junior hunter in the family you can get in on the Junior Waterfowl hunt on Saturday and Sunday, 2/4 & 2/5/23. If your junior hunter doesn’t have a reservation for the Junior Hunt weekend he or she can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at Wister, which handles the Sonny Bono reservations, to get in on the drawing by 10:30 PM the night before. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweat line” spots given out after that. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577.

If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member you also have two more chances this season. The after-season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt will be held on Saturday and Sunday, February 11th and 12th at Sonny Bono accessed through Wister of course. Hopefully, our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you don’t have a reservation for the Vets/Military Hunt you can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at Wister to get in on the drawing by 10:30 PM the night before. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweat line” spots are given out after that. For more information, contact the staff at Wister Staff at 760-359-0577. And, of course, thanks for your service.

Hunt Results for San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Saturday – 1/28/23

The waterfowl average bag for Saturday at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area stayed nearly the same as compared to Wednesday’s average with sunny conditions and temperatures starting out in the mid-30s and topping out just shy of 60. Shovelers were still found in the first position for number of birds taken with Green Wing Teal still in the second spot. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Saturday, 1/28/23 were as follows:

158 adult hunters and 1 junior hunter took home 130 Northern Shovelers, 19 Gadwall, 8 Widgeon, 16 Pintail, 123 Green Wing Teal, 18 Cinnamon Teal, 3 Ring Necks, 22 Bufflehead, 1 Merganser, and 26 Ruddy Ducks. No Geese were bagged at San Jacinto on Saturday. 19 Coots were also downed at San Jacinto on Saturday. This figured out to an average bag of 2.30 Ducks per gun or, with the Geese and Coots worked into the total, 2.42 waterfowl per hunter. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 28 hunters showed up on time to get their spot.

Well, that’s it for the 2022/2023 regular waterfowl season. Junior hunters have one more chance at those elusive waterfowl, on Saturday, February 4th. If you’re a junior hunter or you have a junior hunter in the family, here’s hoping you’ll take advantage of San Jacinto’s Annual Junior Waterfowl hunt on Saturday, 2/4/23. Here’s hoping the Juniors have a great hunt! If your junior hunter doesn’t have a reservation for the Junior Hunt he or she can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at SJ at 3 AM to get their name in on the sweatline drawing. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member you also have one more chance this season. The after-season Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt which will be held on Saturday, February 11th. Hopefully our Vets and Active Duty Heroes will take advantage of this opportunity. Here’s hoping our Vets and Active Duty have a great hunt! If you’re a Veteran or an Active Duty Military Member and don’t have a reservation for the Veteran/Active Duty Military hunt you can still get in on the sweatline drawing, just like any regular hunt day, by showing up at SJ at 3 AM to get your name in on the sweatline drawing. For more information, contact the staff at San Jacinto at 951-928-0580.

Hunt Results for Kern National Wildlife Refuge, Wednesday – 1/25/23

The waterfowl average take at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge for Wednesday slid back a bit as compared to Saturday’s great average. Shovelers, once again, were in first place for number of birds bagged with Green Wing Teal, also again, in the second spot. The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for Wednesday, 1/25/23 were as follows:

59 adult and no junior hunters harvested 119 Northern Shovelers, 2 Mallards, 39 Gadwall, 5 Widgeon, 9 Pintail, 66 Green Wing Teal, 10 Cinnamon Teal, 1 Redhead, 6 Bufflehead and 1 Goldeneye. No Geese or Coots were taken at Kern on Wednesday. This came out to an average bag of 3.78 Ducks per person and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include in the count, 3.78 waterfowl per hunter. Out of 9 reservation cards issued 6 arrived in time to claim their spot.

Kern National Wildlife Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. At this point in the season, it is too late to put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). You can still get in on the daily “sweat line” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. 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. Additional information may be obtained by calling Kern’s office at (661) 725-2767.

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 San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Wednesday – 1/25/23

The waterfowl average harvest for Wednesday at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area jumped upward a bit as compared to Saturday’s average under sunny skies with temperatures ranging from the low-40s to the mid-60s. Shovelers, once again, held the first spot for number of birds bagged with Green Wing Teal, also once again, holding the second position. Tom Trakes, from San Jacinto Wildlife Area, reported that the results for Wednesday, 1/25/23 were as follows:

139 adult and 2 junior hunters bagged 179 Northern Shovelers, 2 Mallards, 44 Gadwall, 3 Widgeon, 59 Green Wing Teal, 10 Cinnamon Teal, 2 Redheads, 2 Ring Necks, 1 Scaup, 18 Bufflehead, and 24 Ruddy Ducks. A lone Canada Goose was downed at San Jacinto on Wednesday. 17 Coots were also taken at San Jacinto on Wednesday. This worked out to an average harvest of 2.48 Ducks per hunter or, with the Goose and Coots added to the total, 2.60 waterfowl per gun. Tom advised that out of 52 reservation cards issued 28 came in on time to get their spot.

San Jacinto is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. At this point in the season, it is too late to put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). You can still get in on the daily “sweat line” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. Reservation spots are given out starting at 3 AM and the “sweat line” drawing is at 3:30 AM.

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 Kern National Wildlife Refuge, Saturday – 1/21/23

The average waterfowl bag at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge for Saturday dropped slightly as compared to Wednesday’s great average. Again Shovelers took the first position for number of birds checked in with Green Wing Teal holding on to the second spot. The Kern NWR Staff reported that the results for Saturday, 1/21/23 were as follows:

74 adult and 2 junior hunters checked in with 152 Northern Shovelers, 6 Mallards, 58 Gadwall, 18 Widgeon, 2 Pintail, 67 Green Wing Teal, 3 Cinnamon Teal, 5 Redheads, 1 Ring Neck, and 2 Bufflehead. No Geese or Coots were downed at Kern on Saturday. This figured out to an average take of 4.13 Ducks per hunter and, of course, with no Geese or Coots to include in the total, 4.13 waterfowl per person. There was no information given on reservations issued or claimed.

Kern National Wildlife Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays and Saturdays only. At this point in the season, except for Veterans’ hunt, it is too late to put in for reservations online through the DFW Automated License Data System (ALDS). You can still get in on the daily “sweat line” drawing for the remaining blinds after the reservations are taken care of. 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