Bield:Hunt
Waterfowl

Goldeneye (Common / Barrow's)
hunting regulations.

Huntable in 49 states 49 with general season. Click any state for the state-specific page.

Common goldeneye and Barrow's goldeneye are mid-sized diving ducks that breed in tree cavities across the boreal forest. Drakes display white-and-black plumage with a circular white patch on the cheek (common) or a comma-shaped patch (Barrow's). They winter on coastal bays and large inland lakes throughout the US.

Bag limits typically include goldeneyes within the aggregate duck bag. They're commonly encountered on big water during late season. Their tendency to dive at the moment of the shot has earned them the nickname "whistler" for the wing-beat sound — but they call little, so most hunters spot them on the wing rather than hear them coming.

Verify before hunting

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 your state wildlife agency. You are responsible for confirming current regulations before hunting.

Where goldeneye (common / barrow's) can be hunted

49 states

Browse all species or download Bield: Hunt to start tracking sits and patterns by species and zone.