Notes for Next Season

It’s been a great season. I’m grateful for the full freezer, the blessings of so many days outdoors, and the learning moments that have built my confidence in this pursuit. Now, while I’m dialed-in, is the perfect time to jot down some notes to build upon the successes—may it also be helpful for you.

Make a list of key spots. You’ve put in the time and found the locations that consistently draw birds. Write them down.

Schedule the special trips. Remember that pond that was covered in mallards in October but frozen solid in December? Hunt it early next year.

Build blinds ahead of time. For those places that require a big hike, build some rollup blinds and stash them onsite. Do this during the post-season lull in March, when you don’t have much else going on.

Clean out the garage. Identify the decoys that never got wet this year—Craigslist them. 

Gain confidence with the calls. Let’s be honest—you’re mediocre on the duck call and downright terrible on the goose call. Go chatter with some real birds at the park.

Shooting practice. Remember those mallards that gave us three good passes, but wouldn’t commit? Watch some YouTube and take some tips from Gil Ash. Get out and gain confidence for those overhead crossing shots.

Harder-hitting loads. Many of my kills this year required at least two shots to dispatch the bird. Learn about loads and shot density, and find a more-lethal round than steel for next season.

What are your biggest take-home messages from this year? Feel free to post a comment below.

All the best to you for a productive off-season,

—Jordan