Better Than Last Year

[Old dog 417]

I caught an invite from two friends to hunt a farm lake in Northern Greene Co. Although we attempted to address all the details in planning the hunt we encountered

several "first hunt of the season" challenges. Things like... forgotten extension line for the jerk string, binoculars left in the truck, dead battery on the 4-WD Mule, forgotten

retriever pole, and the discovery that one end of the blind  had been missed when adding fresh brush and cedars last week. We took it all in stride and found ourselves

sitting in the blind ready to hunt with 10 minutes to spare before shooting time. No wind and a heavy cloud cover greeted us at daylight creating some concern as to whether

we would see any ducks, let alone get them to work. But, none of us wanted to trade places with those that were experiencing the Black Friday madness so we continued to

sit patiently and stare into the overcast sky hoping for the best. And then it happened...a pair, then a group of four, a single, you know the drill. We missed some shots, did

the "just wait for one more pass then we'll shoot"  routine...(that of course never happens) but we persevered and managed a decent hunt harvesting a mixed bag of 9. So,

all in all it was a successful "first of the season" hunt and more importantly it was encouraging. Not a record setter by any means but after experiencing several "none seen/

no shot" hunts last year it gave each of us that shot in the arm of encouragement and renewed anticipation of more to come. That anticipation makes getting up at 4 AM and

going out on chilly mornings all worth it! Besides, at my age, we really want to go because we still can! 

 

Weather: Temp 36,  Wind none to very slight SE breeze, Overcast with early fog and occasional mist.

Species observed and/or harvested: Gadwalls, Shovelers, Meragansers, and Teal.  

Good safe hunts to you all.

OD

   

   

         

 

 

 

[Hunter91]

Sounds like a nice hunt! Congrats!

[Gavin]

Good for you! First year back at the ducks and learning what not to do. Hunting Friday at a club with supervision. Might kill em if they fly instead of sit.