Get Prepared for Duck Season
| Who is more excited this time of year, you or your dog? If you and your trusty retriever are both chomping at the bit, you already know that it's time for some duck hunting. Before you jump in the truck and head out, check out our handy chart below to make sure you're ready. |
| First up, you need to practice your call. If your call is getting a bit worn, replace it before your first hunt, so you have your best call all season long. You'll want to make sure your shotgun is clean and damage free. Get it out, give it a good cleaning and once over, and fire a few test shots to make sure everything is in working order. This is especially important if it hasn't been used recently, though regular cleaning and maintenance is always a good idea when caring for your firearm. Plan out your season, look over your notes and plans from last year to evaluate what you want to carry over this year. Keeping a journal of your hunts will help you to keep track of what you have tried, where, and how it worked out. Make sure that your plan includes options for when the weather isn't working in your favor. Doing this will help you become a better hunter season over season. While you are checking on your calls and your gun, take a look at your decoys too. Are they ready to go for the season? Make necessary repairs or purchase replacements as early as possible. You've had a bit of down time, so has your dog. Make sure your retriever is ready to hit the field again, head out and do a few practice drills to make sure you are ready to work as a team for a great season. Get yourself in the right frame of mind, it's finally duck season. Don't worry about getting too much game, you can vacuum seal and store all the extras to enjoy for months to come. Now, get out there and have some fun! |