by anne m on February 17, 2012 06:38:23 AM In the world of hunting, there are numerous methods which all have success of varying degrees, dependant upon the creature being pursued. When the target is the duck, then there are a whole host of techniques which can assist, and put the advantage the way of the hunter. Of course there are many different species of duck, therefore it is essential that you identify the key areas where you need to position yourself, in order to maximize your potential success rate. For example, the teals and pintails prefer water pockets that are heavily covered, whereas the mallards and gadwalls will frequent newly flooded fringe areas and back water timber ponds.
The use of decoys remains popular in duck hunting and the recommendation is to place them in small groups, maybe somewhere between 4 and 7, and positioned approximately 3 feet apart from each other. This works particularly well in the early season, as it very much mimics the antics of the real thing, as the ducks at this time do not tend to sit together in tight congregations. Exploiting wind conditions is another favourite of the hunters, due to the fact that sustained levels of higher than normal wind speeds, impact on feeding patterns and location choices of the birds, as the ducks are pushed into areas they might not usually select, and leave themselves more isolated than they might wish.
The duck always reacts to approaching weather fronts, so some proactive research into forecasts can pay massive dividends. A little bit of time spent making records will also help in the long run, as a hunter will be able to look back at similar occasions and calculate the best spots to head for. No two areas are completely the same, so it is important to understand the environment, so as to adopt the best strategy, because although one set of techniques might very well work brilliantly in one place, they can quite easily prove to be completely useless at another.
One of the best duck hunting tips is to always go out on a hunt immediately after a significant period of rainfall, as rising water will flood new areas, such as fields of agricultural produce, and this will inevitably attract the birds. These new patches of water will be pretty much exposed, offering little shelter and giving a hunter a decent chance of a clear shot. Camouflage is vital as the ducks are able to identify colours and will be off quick as a flash, at the slightest suspicion of danger.
Two other perhaps less popular methods of duck hunting are jump shooting and pass shooting. The jump option basically involves creeping up on the birds and startling them when they least expect it. The best places being small rivers and streams, sloughs and smaller potholes. It is effectively an equivalent of stalking the ducks, but will only be a success if the birds are in a period of inactivity.
Pass shooting is simply an opportunist option, whereby the hunter takes shots at passing ducks overhead, but to do this it is vital that you remain hidden from view and are able to determine flight patterns. These methods receive some criticism from within the sport, due to the need for absolute accuracy, which unfortunately many of those who choose to practice this way are often lacking in, and very often it results in many crippled birds, which is something any committed hunter would always frown upon.
There are some wonderfully detailed facts and information to be gathered at www.duckhuntinginfo.com, indeed pretty much all you need to know about duck hunting including equipment to be used, can be found on the website. Read more |
by anne m on February 17, 2012 06:37:35 AM The idea of hunting for game is a very appealing notion to many, but what these unsuspecting enthusiasts are not always immediately aware of, is the need for a significant amount of gear and equipment, to not only comply with rules and regulations, but also to maximize potential success rates. Many people choose to go hunting together, making the occasion something of a social gathering, and this is perfectly acceptable where ducks are concerned, unlike other hunted species, where the hunter needs to be alone. The duck hunting fraternity often learn the ropes in pairs and the first thing to grasp is the clothing to wear, which if you are in pairs or more, is always advisable to wear as near to the same as possible, in order to help blend in with the local surroundings.
The basics of the required equipment start naturally with the actual weapon, which ought to be a 12-gauge chambered shotgun, with any high power shell proving sufficient, but these must be steel, as lead is prohibited. An absolute necessity are a good pair of waders, they are essential to reach places that otherwise would prove inaccessible. Hip waders are fine, but ideally chest-high waders make life so much easier. Even in reasonably shallow water, they are great for keeping the bottom dry, as it makes for an uncomfortable day if you need to sit down wet.
Of the many duck hunting tips that do the rounds, one that certainly is worth taking on board is paying that little bit extra for a good quality pair of waders. Cheap versions can be picked up, but you will be left cold, damp and probably ready for home in double quick time. A little more expense paid out, will keep you warm, dry and enthusiastic throughout the day. Camouflage is also vital and many make the mistake of dressing in army-style green, when realistically brown will do the trick. That will blend in better with most surroundings, because ducks are not stupid, they can quickly recognize if something does not quite look right, and they will be out of there before you can even raise your gun.
Decoys and duck calls are very popular as they allow a hunter to get much closer to the target. There has even been a development with the decoys in the shape of a type of robo-duck which can actually dip and dive and create ripple effects to mirror the real thing. The calls come in many shapes and sizes, but fundamentally, they are able to replicate the sounds of the ducks, be that just chatter, perhaps mating, or warnings of imminent danger. Ducks are deceptive in their size, and many hunters make the mistake of shooting at the birds when they are far to far away. Anything above 35 to 40 yards away is probably too great a distance, and should not be attempted.
Duck hunting is a fantastic past time and one that if you decide to pursue, really needs to be taken seriously, to gain the most from it. Approaching the activity half-hearted will do nobody any favours. It can be very rewarding and anybody taking it up will quickly begin to appreciate the skill levels required, and once mastered, the sense of achievement that follows a successful hunt.
It is always best to find out as much as possible about duck hunting and at www.duckhuntinginfo.com there is significant information to digest. Amongst the many items are some excellent duck hunting tips that can transform individual success rates. Read more |
