A Primer About Waterfowl Hunting

Men have been hunting waterfowl such as ducks,populations.
geese, and even swans since Prehistoric times.Waterfowl hunting seasons are usually in the fall
Anyone who has killed their own bird then had itand winter, when birds have finished raising their
for dinner can tell you they make really fineyoung and have taken wing for warmer climes.
eating. But of course, like all hunting, mostBasic equipment for hunters includes a shotgun, a
sportsmen and women are motivated primarily byblind to conceal the hunter, and calls and decoys
the thrill of the chase, the camaraderie thatto attract birds.
comes from spending a few days on the waterBlinds are essential to duck and goose hunting
with fellow enthusiasts, and the lure of the beautysince the birds are easily spooked and must be
of the great outdoors. If you've been consideringlured within firing range. A blind often looks like a
taking up waterfowl hunting, here's a short primerplywood outhouse with openings facing the body
on the subject.of water as well as the sky and it may or may
Duck and goose hunting became all the rage innot be camouflaged. In popular hunting areas,
the United States during the 19th century, afterthese structures may be permanent. However,
the invention of the shot gun. Because themany natural materials can serve as blinds too:
buckshot can spread out over a larger area, thetrees, tall grasses, or structures artificially
likelihood of killing a bird was much greater thanconstructed from branches or logs work great.
when using a gun that produces only a singleDuck calls and decoys help to lure the birds to
projectile. The ready availability of great Flywayswithin striking distance. They come in a wide
running north to south in several areas of therange of styles and many hunters will swear that
country led to extensive commercial huntinghis work the best! In truth, it is a game between
which eventually decimated flocks and drasticallythe hunted and the hunter: a game of strategy as
reduced their numbers.well as patience. If you have never participated in
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 went aa waterfowl hunt or are experienced but want to
long way toward regulating the amount of duckstry new places, it is probably wise to hire an
and geese that were being killed each year, and itoutfitter who is a seasoned professional. He will
is still in effect today. Federal and state regulationsknow where to go, what to bring, and what the
provide for hunting opportunities for enthusiastslocal rules and regulations are.
while striking a balance by protecting bird