Hunting waterfowl can be a challenge. You need a lot of equipment, patience, and a good shot. You will also need the right camouflage, a proper firearm, a good decoy, waders and the right call to attract ducks and birds. Here are a few of the basics you will want to know if you are looking to get into waterfowl and duck hunting this season.
Don't Hunt the Roost
One of the biggest mistakes that those who are new to waterfowl hunting make is hunting the roost. The roost is the area where all of the ducks and birds gather, typically to sleep or rest for the evening. While it may seem enticing to hunt the roost, it will ultimately scare off the flock causing them not to return. Instead, try to hunt ducks as they feed or rest from flying. There will be fewer at a time, but it ensures you don't run off a whole flock of birds that you can otherwise continue to hunt.
Perfect Your Bird Call
While camouflaging yourself, creating a hiding place and patiently waiting can all eventually help you find a duck, perfecting your bird call is a faster way to draw in ducks. Many products on the market can help you create the sounds of other birds and ducks. Take the time to play with these products, that way you know how to use them in the wild and make them sound realistic. A weak bird call can warn birds to stay far, far away, while a great one can draw in birds that are nearby.
Hunt Legally
The last waterfowl hunting tip is crucial. Always hunt legally. Waterfowl hunting guidelines vary from state to state. This includes what type of firearms and ammunition that can be used, when waterfowl hunting season begins and ends, what hunting hours are, and how many birds you can claim per day or season. Always obtain a hunting license and ensure you know all of the guidelines for the state you will be hunting in. If you fail to follow the rules, you can be fined, face misdemeanor hunting charges or lose the right to hunt in the future.
Additionally, always make sure that you are hunting in a legal area. There are open hunting grounds where anywhere can hunt. Often, you can also hunt on private property if you obtain the owner's permission.
Hunting season will be in full swing soon! Stop by Norton Sporting Goods for all of your gear! Geared towards hunters, shooters, and fisherman, we carry firearms, ammo, scopes, muzzleloaders, knives, archery, live bait, and tackle. We are conveniently located next to the Delaware Wildlife Area, just off the intersection of Route 23 and Route 229. Stop by today and take a look at our great selection and prices for all of your hunting and fishing needs.
