OutdoorNebraska.gov | 5
New for 2026
Duck Zones – There now is a three duck-zone configuration instead of four. Boundary changes
to duck zones and goose units approved by commissioners in 2025 resulted in duck Zone 4 being
relabeled to Zone 1. The former Zone 1 is being absorbed into Zone 2. See page 17.
Early Teal Season – There again will be a nine-day early teal season in both Low Plains and
High Plains zones in 2026 due to blue-winged teal breeding population status. See page 16.
Light Goose Conservation Order – Platte River restrictions during the Order were modified to
account for an earlier stopover of whooping cranes during the spring. See page 23.
Squirrel Season – The close of squirrel season has been extended to the last day of February
to align it with other seasons. See page 11.
Permits and Stamps
NEBRASKA HUNT (SMALL GAME) PERMIT
The following must have a Nebraska hunt (small game) permit:
• Any resident 16 years of age and older who hunts small game or waterfowl.
EXCEPTION: A farmer or rancher and immediate family who actually live on the land they
own or lease may hunt squirrel, cottontail, jackrabbit (west of U.S. 81), prairie grouse
(special permit required east of U.S. 81), partridge, pheasant and quail without obtaining a
Nebraska hunt (small game) permit or Habitat Stamp. Hunting seasons and regulations still
apply.
• Any nonresident, regardless of age, who hunts for or possesses small game or waterfowl.
• All nonresidents who hunt coyotes, prairie dogs and other nongame animals.
WATERFOWL HUNTER REQUIREMENTS
Nebraska residents 16 years of age and older and all nonresidents regardless of age who hunt
waterfowl in Nebraska must have:
• A Nebraska hunt (small game) permit • A Nebraska Habitat Stamp
• A Nebraska Waterfowl Stamp • A Harvest Information Program number
All residents and nonresidents age 16 and older who hunt waterfowl in Nebraska also must
have:
• A Federal Duck Stamp
NEBRASKA FUR HARVEST PERMIT
The following must have a Nebraska fur harvest permit:
• Any resident 16 years of age and older or any nonresident regardless of age who hunts,
traps or pursues furbearers needs a Nebraska fur harvest permit.
• Nonresident fur harvest permits may be issued only to residents of states that sell similar
permits to Nebraska residents. They cannot be purchased online. These permits may only
be purchased at Game and Parks' Lincoln office. Call 402-471-5457.
