Also known as: Canadian goose, Honker, Canada goose
The Canada goose is a large species of goose with a black head and neck, white cheeks, white under its chin, and a brown body. It is native to the Arctic and temperate regions of North America, and it is occasionally found during migration across the Atlantic in northern Europe. It has been introduced to France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Scandinavia, New Zealand, Japan, Chile, Argentina, and the Falkland Islands. Like most geese, the Canada goose is primarily herbivorous and normally migratory; often found on or close to fresh water, the Canada goose is also common in brackish marshes, estuaries, and lagoons.
Hunting Season
Varies by zone. Northeastern: Oct 4 - Jan 11. Southern San Joaquin Valley: Oct 18 - Jan 28. Southern California: Oct 18 - Jan 28. Colorado River: Oct 23 - Jan 31. Balance of State: Oct 18 - Jan 25. North Coast early: Oct 4 - Dec 20. Special late seasons available in some zones (Feb).
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Canada Goose in California
Canada goose hunting in California is managed through five waterfowl zones with varying season dates and bag limits. California duck validation, federal duck stamp (age 16+), and HIP validation are required. Nonlead ammunition is mandatory. Possession limit: triple the daily bag. Late seasons are available in some zones for white geese. Special management areas (North Coast, Klamath Basin, Sacramento Valley) have specific regulations.
Are there special late goose seasons in California?
Yes, several zones offer late goose seasons in February and March focused on white geese (snow and Ross's geese) to reduce overabundant populations. Some areas also have special early Canada goose seasons in October.
When is Canada Goose hunting season in California?
Varies by zone. Northeastern: Oct 4 - Jan 11. Southern San Joaquin Valley: Oct 18 - Jan 28. Southern California: Oct 18 - Jan 28. Colorado River: Oct 23 - Jan 31. Balance of State: Oct 18 - Jan 25. North Coast early: Oct 4 - Dec 20. Special late seasons available in some zones (Feb).
What is the bag limit for Canada Goose in California?
Varies by zone. Northeastern: 30 geese/day (10 dark, 20 white). Southern CA: 23/day (3 dark, 20 white). Most zones: 30/day (10 dark, 20 white). Large Canada goose sub-limit: max 2 per day in some zones.
What is another name for Canada Goose?
Canada Goose is also known as Canadian goose, Honker, Canada goose in California.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Varies by zone. Northeastern: Oct 4 - Jan 11. Southern San Joaquin Valley: Oct 18 - Jan 28. Southern California: Oct 18 | Link |
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Canada goose hunting in California is managed through five waterfowl zones with varying season dates and bag limits. Cal | Link |
