How much is a bird hunting license in California?

The cost of a bird hunting license in California depends on a few factors, including the age of the hunter, the type of birds being hunted, and the specific hunting licenses and stamps required. Here’s a quick overview of bird hunting license costs in California:

California Hunting License Costs

There are several basic hunting licenses required for bird hunting in California:

• California Hunting License – $49.56 for adult residents, $12.70 for junior hunters
• Upland Game Bird Validation – $25.10 for adult residents, $7.78 for junior hunters
• Federal Duck Stamp – $28.50 for all hunters ages 16 and older

In total, an adult resident can expect to pay around $103 for the basic hunting license package needed for upland game bird and waterfowl hunting in California. Additional stamps and tags may be required for hunting specific species.

Upland Game Bird Hunting

To hunt common upland game birds like pheasant, quail, dove, and grouse in California, you need a basic hunting license and an upland game bird validation. The validation allows you to take up to 10 birds per day, with no limit on the season total.

Here are the costs for upland game bird hunting in California:

• California Hunting License: $49.56 for adult residents
• Upland Game Bird Validation: $25.10 for adult residents
• Total: $74.66/year for adults

In addition, there are special hunting opportunities that require purchasing a separate upland game bird stamp:

• Bobwhite Quail Stamp: $7.14
• Pheasant Stamp: $28.56

Waterfowl Hunting

Hunting ducks, geese, coots, and other migratory waterfowl in California requires a basic hunting license, duck stamp, and California duck validation.

Here are the costs for waterfowl hunting in California:

• California Hunting License: $49.56 for adult residents
• Federal Duck Stamp: $28.50 for all hunters 16+
• California Duck Validation: $25.10 for adult residents
• Total: $103.16/year for adults

The federal duck stamp is valid from July to June of the following year. The California duck validation is valid during that same period.

Summary of Bird Hunting License Costs

Here is a summary of the typical costs for bird hunting licenses in California:

Keep in mind, additional stamps may be required for hunting on special management areas or for certain species like bobwhite quail and pheasant. Migratory bird regulations like season dates and bag limits can also vary each year.

Who Needs a California Hunting License?

In general, all hunters are required to have a valid California hunting license issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Here are some key rules regarding who needs a license:

• All hunters age 16 and older must have a license to hunt in California (with a few exceptions).
• Hunters under 16 can hunt upland game birds and waterfowl without a license if accompanied by a licensed adult.
• Adult supervisors need a license even if under 16s are licensed exempt.
• Hunting licenses are not required for hunting on regulated game bird hunting preserves.
• Lifetime license holders still need to purchase annual validations like duck stamps.

Purchasing a California Hunting License

California hunting licenses, validations, and stamps can be purchased in several ways:

• Online – Licenses can be purchased on the California Department of Fish & Wildlife website. Accounts can be created to reprint licenses.
• Physical locations – Licenses can be bought at most sporting goods stores, hunting outfitters, and from license agents.
• Mobile app – The California Hunting, Fishing, and Wildlife app allows you to store licenses on your mobile device.

When purchasing a license, the hunter’s GO ID number will be required. Hunter education and age/ID documentation may also be required as proof when buying licenses.

Non-Resident Hunting License Options

For non-residents, California offers a few different hunting license options:

• Non-resident year-long hunting license – Valid for one year from the date of purchase. Costs $298.65.
• Non-resident 2-day hunting license – Valid for two consecutive days. Costs $62.47.
• Discounted licenses – Available for certain groups like disabled veterans, recovering service members, and low-income residents.

Non-residents are eligible for the same stamps, validations, and tags as residents. The costs are generally a bit higher than for resident hunters.

Places to Buy a Hunting License in California

Here are some of the most popular places to buy a California hunting license:

• Big 5 Sporting Goods – Has over 100 locations in California selling licenses.
• Turner’s Outdoorsman – Large retailer with over 20 California locations.
• Walmart – Many (but not all) Walmarts sell licenses at sporting goods desks.
• Bass Pro Shops – Sells licenses at a dozen California locations.
• CA Department of Fish & Wildlife Offices – Can purchase at licensing offices across the state.

You can also find license agents like smaller bait & tackle shops, hardware stores, and more that sell licenses. The full list of agents can be searched on the CDFW website.

Important Rules and Regulations

When hunting birds in California, following all rules and regulations is critical. Here are some key things every hunter should know:

• Must carry license and stamps on person when hunting.
• Only approved shotguns, nontoxic shot, and bows/archery equipment may be used.
• Bag and possession limits must be followed for each species.
• No baiting or electronic calling allowed for migratory birds.
• No shooting from motor vehicles, aircraft, or boats.
• No hunting near schools, churches, or inhabited dwellings.
• Blaze orange clothing and gear requirements must be followed.

Regulations on season dates, bag limits, shot size, and hunting methods can vary each year. Checking the current California waterfowl, upland game hunting, and migratory bird hunting regulations is essential before planning a hunt.

Conclusion

Bird hunting in California requires several licenses and stamps, ranging from about $75 for upland game birds up to $103 for migratory waterfowl. All hunters need a basic hunting license, and additional validations depend on the game being pursued and hunter’s age. Licenses can be easily purchased online, at sporting goods stores, and from license agents. Following all hunting regulations is crucial, as they can change annually. With proper licenses and preparation, California offers exciting bird hunting opportunities across the state.