Bufflehead in Indiana
hunting regulations.
Hunting regulations change. The information on this page reflects what we know about species presence and hunt availability based on state agency listings. For current season dates, bag limits, weapon restrictions, tag requirements, and reporting obligations, verify directly with Indiana DNR Fish and Wildlife. You are responsible for confirming current regulations before hunting.
Bufflehead is general season in Indiana. The agency above sets season dates, bag limits, and zone boundaries — those change yearly. Verify before you hunt.
About the species
Buffleheads are small (12-15 ounces), striking diving ducks that breed in tree cavities across boreal Canada and Alaska and winter on coastal bays and inland reservoirs across most of the US. Drakes display a distinctive black-and-white head pattern with a prominent white patch behind the eye. Population is stable.
Bag limits typically include buffleheads in the duck aggregate. They're easy to identify on the wing and decoy readily to small diver spreads. Their small size makes them more of a passing-shot bird than a primary target for most duck hunters.
Other waterfowl in Indiana
Want the picture for this species across every state? See Bufflehead regulations by state. Or browse every huntable species in Indiana.