Seven keys to duck hunting success

December 1, 2018 Jerald Horst Ducks, Sidebars
Matching the hatch is the first decoy rule for Creighton Ward. In the coastal waters of Plaquemines Parish, where mallards are almost nonexistent, he uses a mixture of species, including the pintails, gadwalls and wigeon shown here.
Matching the hatch is the first decoy rule for Creighton Ward. In the coastal waters of Plaquemines Parish, where mallards are almost nonexistent, he uses a mixture of species, including the pintails, gadwalls and wigeon shown here.
  1. You are never too old to learn. Pick up tips from other hunters.
  2. Don’t leave the blind too early. Pack a lunch. What forces hunters out of their blinds more than anything is hunger.
  3. Don’t hesitate to experiment on your own, even if the idea seems silly.
  4. Make sure you pattern your shotgun. Most people have no clue about what shot size shoots best in their shotgun. It’s also unbelievable how many modern European guns are not true to point-of-aim.
  5. Shoot improved cylinder chokes with larger shot sizes as they tend to shoot tighter patterns.
  6. If you haven’t mastered a duck call, minimize your calling. Gray duck calls and wigeon whistles are easiest to use.
  7. Don’t brag on your dog until it’s dead.

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About Jerald Horst 959 Articles
Jerald Horst is a retired Louisiana State University professor of fisheries. He is an active writer, book author and outdoorsman.