We caught up with two big-time duck hunters to get their thoughts on a range of
duck-fooling challenges. You might be surprised at what they had to say about
hunting pressured ducks.
1. Test the Blind
Ever hear of matching the hatch in fly-fishing? It’s the same deal in blind building—sort of.
“It’s hard to relate a blind-building discussion when there’s such a vast array of locations and setups guys use around the country,” explains Rod Haydel of Haydel’s Game Calls.
“Down in the South, the hunting I know best, it’s critical to match the terrain we’re hunting in.”
Haydel tests his blinds by asking hunting buddies if they can spot them upon arrival.
“If they can’t, I’ve done it right. By all means, you need to keep things as natural as possible,”
he stresses. Don’t use pine branches if they’re not in the area, and always minimize the blind’s profile.
2. Hunt Earlier, Quit Sooner
Haydel recommends avoiding long hunts late in the day. Sometimes stopping one duck shy of a limit is
better than pushing longer and adding pressure on local flocks.
3. Tighten Your Spread
Move decoys closer to the blind and use a hook-type set. Position multiple duck species close and adjust the spread if ducks tend to favor one side.
4. No-Call Ducks
Use species-specific calls. Let one hunter lead the calling and remember that not all ducks respond to calls at all times.
5. Shut Up
If ducks flare when you call, stop calling. “Don’t call!” Sean Mann advises. Sometimes less is more.
6. Much Too Much
Overcalling is a common mistake, especially in large hunting parties. Instead of a constant feeding chuckle, single quacks can sound more natural.
7. Calling Wood Ducks
Wood ducks are widespread and migrate early. They are challenging to call like mallards, but it can be done.
Haydel suggests using their squeal calls, whines, and a few decoys to increase success.
8. Roosting Woodies
Scout roosting areas and travel routes, but avoid hunting directly in roosts. This preserves the area and keeps birds consistent throughout the season.
9. Tough-Sell Ducks
Late in the flyway, ducks are highly educated. Use slower, spaced-out single quacks and comeback calls when necessary to keep birds in line.
10. Pressured Ducks
When ducks abandon pressured spots, search for new, secluded locations such as small cattle ponds. Rotate hunting areas to keep pressure low and opportunities high.
Conclusion
These 10 tactics for hunting pressured ducks from experts Rod Haydel and Sean Mann will help you adapt to tough hunting conditions and increase your success in the field.
Related Reading & Hunting Packages
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Source: By Steve Hickoff.
