Top Waterfowl Hunting Habits to Avoid
When it comes to waterfowl hunting, we all know how difficult it can be to get started in this sport. Oftentimes, it can be quite intimidating, not to mention how much there is to know before you’re actually ready to venture out into the field.
From learning the right bird identification, getting proper licensing, finding the right spot, and purchasing adequate gear, the process can get a bit overwhelming. So, if you’re adamant about scoring more ducks this year and desperately want to avoid common errors committed by waterfowl hunters, we’ve got you covered.
All you have to do is make sure to avoid the following habits, as they are more than likely to ruin your hunt and possibly lead to not getting invited to the next one. Good luck!
Mistake #1: Talking or Calling Too Much
If you’re still a beginner, the best thing you can do is simply follow the leader of the group and discuss what your role in the calling chorus is. You are welcome to ask questions, as it will show a genuine interest in wanting to educate yourself to better understand the duck and snow goose hunting tactics. But if you talk too much, especially without having your calls down, you risk getting uninvited to the next group hunt.
Mistake #2: Setting up Facing the Sun
We understand that sometimes, you simply have no choice. But if you venture out on a cloudless day, an east-facing setup is sure to force you to shoot into the blazing sun, which is, obviously, extremely unfortunate.
You might be thinking to yourself that taking aim on birds neatly silhouetted against the lighter eastern sky is worth a shot, but we assure you that after a few minutes of the sun burning your retinas, you’ll beg to differ.
Mistake #3: Burning a Spot
Simply put, burning a spot is basically a guarantee that you won’t get invited for another hunt anytime soon. If you join a team on a private plot, it is on you to honor that invitation by keeping the spot’s location to yourself.
After all, your host probably had to go to some degree of trouble to secure those birds and obtain permission to hunt there. The best thing you can do? Return the favor when you find a good hunting spot on your own, and invite them to join you. This is sure to earn you some points within the group.
Mistake #4: Shooting at the Same Duck
This is a mistake that even veteran hunters sometimes make. The best way to avoid it is to simply talk strategy beforehand, as it will help you avoid drawing a gun on the same duck. For example, your hunting buddy on the left can take the birds on that side, while you can focus on the right side. After you figure that part out, spread the decoys accordingly and get to business.
Mistake #5: Not Caring About Gun Safety
When it comes to gun safety out in the field, there is simply no room for failure. Everyone in your group should be properly trained and educated on the matter, having a zero-tolerance policy for mistakes.
Make sure that everyone has gone through proper hunter education courses, where they can learn all about safe gun handling. Everyone on the team needs to take gun safety seriously for your trip to be safe and worry-free.
Get in Touch With Us for the Best Waterfowl Hunting Experience in Tennessee!
Knowing what to do, which habits to avoid, and how to conduct yourself while in the field can make a world of difference during your hunting trips. Whether you’re a professional waterfowl hunter or still just a novice in the hunting arena, it’s never too late to learn a few useful tips that can benefit you in more ways than one.
Now that you know which hunting habits to avoid, we’re sure your next trip will be a huge success. But if you want to get the full and real flooded timber duck hunting experience, don’t hesitate to reach our amazing flooded timber duck hunting guides! We will take care of all the details and prepare the ground for you so that you enjoy the fruits of our labor to the fullest.
