Great Salt Lake Geese: Hunting Opportunities in Utah

Utah Goose Hunting

Utah’s Great Salt Lake is a waterfowl hunter’s dream, offering expansive wetlands, open water, and abundant goose populations. Positioned along the Pacific Flyway, the Great Salt Lake and its surrounding areas, including the Bear River Refuge, provide critical habitat for both resident and migratory geese, making it a prime destination for hunters. Northern Utah is also considered a prime location for waterfowl hunting, with rich hunting opportunities in areas such as the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and several Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). With its unique landscapes and diverse hunting options, Utah delivers a one-of-a-kind experience for waterfowl enthusiasts.

Why Utah is a Top Destination for Goose Hunting

The Great Salt Lake, with its vast wetlands and shallow waters, is a magnet for waterfowl. Its mix of freshwater and brackish wetlands provides ideal feeding and resting grounds for geese during their migration. Nearby agricultural fields also play a vital role, offering geese an abundance of food.

Utah’s strong conservation efforts and public hunting programs ensure sustainable goose populations and accessible hunting opportunities. These efforts include managing habitats for waterfowl production, particularly in areas like the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, which is crucial for breeding and nesting. Additionally, the region is renowned for waterfowl hunting, attracting numerous hunters to prime locations such as the Great Salt Lake and Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge during the migration season. The combination of natural beauty and productive hunting grounds makes the Great Salt Lake region a standout destination.

Top Goose Hunting Locations Around the Great Salt Lake

Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge

Situated at the northern end of the Great Salt Lake, the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a premier location for goose hunting. Its extensive wetlands attract large numbers of Canada geese, snow geese, and a variety of other waterfowl species. Waterfowl hunters can enjoy thrilling experiences at the refuge, navigating the rich habitat and diverse ecosystem that supports these birds. The refuge’s managed areas provide excellent opportunities for both guided and self-guided hunts.

Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area

Located on the eastern shore of the Great Salt Lake, Farmington Bay WMA is a prime location for waterfowl hunting, especially for Canada geese. The area is home to a variety of waterfowl species, including Northern Pintails and Cinnamon Teal, making it an exciting destination for hunters. Its shallow waters and adjacent fields create prime habitat, making it a hotspot during the hunting season.

Ogden Bay Waterfowl Management Area

Ogden Bay WMA is another excellent location for hunting geese near the Great Salt Lake. Salt Creek WMA is also a significant location for waterfowl hunting in Utah, especially later in the season when crowds thin out, and it holds a variety of duck species such as Mallards and Green-winged Teal. Its mix of marshes, ponds, and open water provides ideal conditions for geese, particularly during migration.

Public Shooting Grounds Waterfowl Management Area

Located near the north end of the lake, this WMA offers a remote and productive hunting experience. Its wetlands attract geese in significant numbers, providing consistent action for hunters.

Harold Crane Waterfowl Management Area

This WMA, located west of Ogden, is known for its expansive wetlands and nearby croplands. Canada geese are commonly found in the area, making it a favorite spot for hunters.

Surrounding Agricultural Fields

Fields adjacent to the Great Salt Lake, particularly those with leftover grain, corn, or alfalfa, are prime feeding grounds for geese. Golf courses in the area also serve as important habitats for geese, especially during nesting and molting seasons. These areas offer excellent field hunting opportunities for resident and migratory geese.

Goose Species Found Around the Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake region is home to a variety of goose species, offering hunters multiple targets throughout the season. Commonly hunted geese include:

• Canada Geese: The most abundant species in the area, found in wetlands and agricultural fields.

• Snow Geese: Frequently seen during migration, often in large flocks.

• Ross’s Geese: Smaller geese that are often found mixed with snow geese.

• Greater White-Fronted Geese (Specklebellies): Less common but occasionally spotted in the region.

Goose Hunting Seasons and Regulations in Utah

Utah’s goose hunting season typically begins in late fall and extends through early spring. Specific dates and regulations vary by zone, so hunters should consult the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) for the most up-to-date information.

Required licenses and permits include:

• Utah hunting license

• Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Duck Stamp)

• Utah Migratory Bird Permit

• HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification

Special conservation orders may extend the season for snow geese to manage their populations.

Essential Gear for Goose Hunting in Utah

Hunting geese in Utah’s diverse landscapes requires thoughtful preparation and the right gear. Key items include:

• Decoys: Realistic spreads of Canada goose and snow goose decoys are essential for attracting flocks. A well-planned decoy spread can significantly increase your chances of success by luring in different species of waterfowl.

• Goose Calls: High-quality calls for Canada geese and snow geese help lure birds into range.

• Camouflage: Choose blinds or clothing that matches the environment, whether it’s open fields, wetlands, or marshes.

• Shotgun and Ammunition: A 12-gauge shotgun with non-toxic shot, such as BB or BBB, is recommended.

• Blinds: Layout blinds for fields or natural cover setups for wetlands provide effective concealment.

• Layout Boat: Using a layout boat allows hunters to blend into their surroundings in wetlands, offering a unique advantage for shooting at passing birds.

• Waders: Insulated waders are essential for setting decoys and navigating the Great Salt Lake’s shallow waters.

• Cold-Weather Gear: Utah winters can be harsh, so waterproof and insulated clothing is critical for comfort and safety.

Strategies for Successful Goose Hunting in Utah

Scouting

• Field Scouting: Identify agricultural fields where geese feed, particularly those with leftover grain or alfalfa.

• Water Scouting: Focus on wetlands, ponds, and open water areas where geese roost or rest.

• Timing: Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to observe geese activity and plan your hunt.

Decoy Placement

• Field Hunting: Use U- or J-shaped decoy spreads with an open landing zone to mimic feeding geese. Adjust the spread based on flock size and behavior. Strategically position hundreds of decoys to create an effective decoy spread, which is crucial for attracting different species of waterfowl, especially in varying weather conditions.

• Water Hunting: Place floaters near shorelines or in shallow water to create the appearance of resting geese.

Calling Techniques

• Practice clucks, honks, and murmurs to mimic natural goose sounds.

• Use snow goose e-callers during migration to attract large flocks.

• Adjust calling intensity based on the behavior of approaching geese—soft calls for calm birds, louder calls for distant flocks.

Timing Your Hunt

• Plan to hunt during peak activity times, such as when geese leave their roosts to feed in the morning or return to water in the afternoon.

• Take advantage of cold fronts and overcast days, which often increase goose activity.

Concealment

• Use layout blinds in fields or natural cover, such as reeds or cattails, in wetlands.

• Ensure your setup is well-camouflaged and avoid unnecessary movement when geese are approaching.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting Practices

Utah’s waterfowl populations depend on responsible hunting and conservation efforts. Hunters can contribute by:

• Following bag limits and species-specific regulations.

• Minimizing waste by ensuring clean kills and utilizing all harvested birds.

• Supporting wetland restoration projects and waterfowl conservation initiatives.

• Respecting private property and securing permission for field hunting.

Conclusion

The Great Salt Lake region is a premier destination for goose hunting, offering diverse habitats, abundant geese, and stunning scenery. From the wetlands of Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge to the agricultural fields surrounding the lake, Utah provides endless opportunities for waterfowl enthusiasts. The region is also home to various waterfowl species, including ruddy ducks, which thrive in the marshes around the lake. By scouting effectively, mastering calling and decoy strategies, and practicing ethical hunting, you can enjoy a successful and memorable goose hunting season in Utah.

FAQs

What makes the Great Salt Lake a prime goose hunting destination?

The Great Salt Lake’s wetlands, shallow waters, and surrounding agricultural fields provide essential food and resting areas for geese, attracting large populations during migration.

What species of geese can I hunt around the Great Salt Lake?

Commonly hunted species include Canada geese, snow geese, Ross’s geese, and occasionally greater white-fronted geese.

When is goose hunting season in Utah?

The season typically runs from late fall through early spring. Specific dates vary by zone, so consult the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources for details.

What permits are required for goose hunting in Utah?

Hunters need a Utah hunting license, federal duck stamp, state migratory bird permit, and HIP certification.

What gear is essential for goose hunting in Utah?

Essential gear includes decoys, goose calls, layout blinds or natural cover, a 12-gauge shotgun with non-toxic shot, insulated waders, and waterproof clothing for cold-weather conditions.