Category: Duck Hunting

Learning is the most valuable thing we take away from each hunting season. And learning from someone else’s mistakes can be a great way to keep from making your own. On this episode I talk about the number 1 thing I learned during duck season last year.

Most people want to believe that every shot they take instantly kills the bird they are shooting at. Ammo companies make it their business to get people to believe that. But the truth is that this just does not always happen.

Never assume a bird is dead until you have it in hand and can confirm its condition. Always make it a point to immediately collect birds that you down. Do not wait, do not delay, do not take your eyes off of the bird. Get it and get it now. Make sure it’s dead and not suffering, and make sure the bird is not lost.

Listen to the episode for all the insights, stories, and more.

Is the good duck hunting over when winter arrives? Hardly! In fact some hunters have their best success in the late season. On this episode I share tips for successful duck hunting in the coldest late season conditions.

Take Aways

• Frozen water pushes ducks south. This is good and bad for late season duck hunters.
• It is bad when your best hunting water freezes but it is good because it focuses ducks on the little open water that remains.
• Not all ducks fly south. If they can find open water and food, some ducks will stay year round.
• To hunt late season ducks you need to find or create open water or open fields. 
• Where you are in the country factors into duck habits and hunting strategy more than anything else. I cover several strategies for different climates in the episode.
• Late season ducks and geese have their heaviest feathers and thickest fat which means it can take more to bring them down.
• Consider stepping up your shot size or using something with more knock down power, like bismuth. 
• Staying dry and warm are not just important for comfort but safety. Falling into the water when it’s 20 degrees is very dangerous. 
• Never risk your safety to retrieve a bird, and always have a plan to retrieve birds in deep water.
• Listen to the episode to hear the late season duck hunting tips.

Show Notes:

The first day you walk into the woods to hunt ducks is a big and exciting day! On this episode we hear from my friend and duck hunting expert Riley Hendrixson about what to know and do on your first ever duck hunt!

In addition to being an avid and experienced duck hunter, Riley Hendrixson is the host of The Hoosier Outdoorsmen Podcast and the owner of Ryloh Game Calls.

Here are some photos of Riley’s work:

Show Notes:

Trying to break into duck hunting can be a big task. But every journey begins with a first step, and this is it! On this episode my friend and duck hunting expert Riley Hendrixson is going to talk about how to get ready for your first hunt!

In addition to being an avid and experienced duck hunter, Riley Hendrixson is the host of The Hoosier Outdoorsmen Podcast and the owner of Ryloh Game Calls.

Here are some photos of Riley’s work: