Where to hunt Wigeon
The wigeon, a compact and colorful duck species, is a favorite among waterfowl hunters worldwide. Several wigeon species are hunted, with the American wigeon being prominent in North America, and the Eurasian wigeon dominating Europe and Asia. For the Chiloe wigeon, found in parts of South America, our online marketplace has a separate page. In North America, wigeon thrive in the Pacific and Central Flyways, with hotspots including California, Washington, and the prairie potholes of Canada. They favor wetlands, lakes, and flooded agricultural fields, often mixing with other ducks. In Europe, the Eurasian wigeon is abundant in countries like the United Kingdom, France, and the Netherlands, where they winter in coastal marshes and inland wetlands. Across Asia, wigeons migrate through Russia and Japan, offering excellent hunting opportunities in key migratory corridors.
Price distribution
No outfitters offer targeted wigeon hunts, but they are included in many duck hunting packages. In North America, guided day hunts range from $200 to $500, with multi-day packages priced between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on the location and services provided. Prices in Europe are similar, with those advertised as “rough shooting” being the most affordable, and group hunts with lodging costing around €1,000 a hunter a day.
When to hunt Wigeon?
The best time to hunt wigeons aligns with their migration and wintering periods. In North America, the season typically runs from October through January, with peak activity during mid-migration in the fall. Early-season hunts often yield mixed flocks, while late-season hunts focus on mature drakes in their prime plumage. In Europe and Asia, wigeon hunting coincides with general waterfowl seasons, which run from autumn through winter, offering excellent opportunities as these birds congregate in large numbers on wintering grounds.
Hunting methods
Most duck hunts are what’s known as ‘mixed bag’, that is, hunters don’t target any particular species, but (metaphorically) cast a wide net after all ducks that are around and in season. If the widgeon predominates where and when you hunt, or if you for any reason value the wigeon above other species, you should bear in mind the bird’s characteristic behavior. Since wigeons are known to graze in shallow water or flooded pastures, decoy spreads should reflect this, and while wigeons are not shy of mallard setups, the spread should better consist of wigeon decoys. Wigeons are highly vocal ducks, so be sure to practice their distinctive whistling sounds, and invest into a wigeon-specific or an all-around call that imitates their vocalisations (check out our selection of waterfowl calls). In areas with high wigeon activity, pass shooting along known flight paths is also successful, requiring hunters to intercept birds as they move between roosting and feeding areas. Wigeon’s fast, erratic flight patterns make them a thrilling target, testing even experienced shooters’ reflexes and accuracy.
Why hunt Wigeon?
Wigeon hunting is a rewarding experience for waterfowl enthusiasts, combining challenge, beauty, and excitement. The drake’s striking plumage, with its chestnut head, cream-colored crown, and green eye patch (in the case of the American wigeon), makes it a prized trophy for collectors. In addition to their visual appeal, wigeon are excellent table fare, with tender and flavorful meat that lends itself well to roasts, stews, and other traditional dishes. Hunting wigeon also immerses hunters in scenic wetlands, marshes, and agricultural fields, creating a memorable outdoor adventure. Whether you’re pursuing American wigeon in the Pacific Flyway or Eurasian wigeon along Europe’s coastal estuaries, this species offers an unforgettable waterfowl hunting experience. Start planning your wigeon hunting trip today!
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