Duck Hunting on the Hudson? What New York Law Says

One Hudson Valley resident got the education of their life after posting in several Hudson Valley community Facebook groups about hunters they saw targeting ducks on the Hudson River.

There are many animals legal to harvest in New York, but from deer and black bear to fish and waterfowl, there are different seasons (and different regulations) for each species. So what does New York law say about duck hunting on the state's most famous river?

Duck Hunting on the Hudson River

The recent question regarding duck hunting had to do with proximity to the public. "Sunday morning I wanted to do a quick walk along the Hudson River", began the recent post. "I saw 3 guys in a small boat off the shore. One man raised his arm aiming a riffle at the birds above... This is an area where parents bring their kids to feed the birds. In the 2 years I have been walking the riverfront I have never seen birds shot."

Is It Legal to Hunt Birds on the Hudson River?

The author continued by sharing that they contacted the Newburgh Police Department to report the hunters, which resulted in the the arrival of several police cruisers... but was all this activity necessary? There were more than a few people willing to add their two cents in the comments.

Hudson Valley Community Responds to Duck Hunting "Controversy"

"Do you walk the woods and feed deer during deer hunting season also?", came one snarky reply. "Completely legal... let them do what they love doing just like you love your walks", added another Hudson Valley resident. But what about the letter of the law?

Read More: Is it Still Legal to Trap Animals in New York?

What New York State Law Says About Hunting on the Hudson River

While there are no blanket regulations preventing waterfowl from being harvested on the Hudson River, there are specific rules about where hunters can take their shots. According to the NYS DEC, hunters with proper tags (a hunting license plus a duck stamp) "may hunt waterfowl with a firearm or bow, over water, within 500 feet of a dwelling or public structure as long as neither are within 500 feet (for a firearm) or 150 feet (for a bow) in the direction [they] are shooting"

Get our free mobile app

So while the sight of hunters in a high-traffic area of the Hudson River might be surprising, there are plenty of scenarios where it is completely legal for them to target ducks and other waterfowl. As another commenter said, "the only one who did something actually illegal was [the author]. It is against the law to harass hunters".