Well, the pheasants were more affected by the wind than the ducks were today. In spite of the fact that Winnie and Maggie hunted great, we only scratched-out 1 bird. we saw about 50, but they were flushing wild WAY out in front of us and the dogs. It was not unusual to see birds flush 100 yards in front of the dogs. We missed 1 we should have nailed, and we didn't get off a shot at one that flushed pretty close because we were looking at each other and talking and didn't see it flush. We also flushed several hens that were within killing range, but they only served as sit-to-flush practice for the girls - which both were extremely steady all day. We wasted exactly 0 time, since our dogs never chased flushed birds...
We wrapped-up our pheasant hunt around 4 and spent a few hours scouting for additional ground to hunt. We just got back to the hotel and got birds cleaned and have ourselves packed for tomorrow morning - so that's why I'm just posting now... We still haven't eaten dinner yet, and bedtime is closing in fast!
Tomorrow we are going to hunt out of the boat at Lake Brekken - we saw mallards and pintails (as well as other species) in there the last 2 days. I need to find somewhere to shoot a Black Duck or AJ is not going to allow me to come home... We are also going to hunt pheasants at Brekken in the afternoon.
PS - I'll let you guess who shot the pheasant and who missed the one that should have been bagged...
I lo th picture of Dan and Winnie! Adorable! Have fun tomorrow. Also I am shocked you two would be talking and miss something!
ReplyDeleteOk, so I see my late night typing isn't so good! I meant to say "I love the picture of Dan and Winnie."
DeleteAmen, Jennifer! I was thinking the same thing as I read the blog! I am glad you had a good day. Love you!
ReplyDeleteDan, Get it together b/c if you don't shoot a bird for my baby girl then you are in big trouble. I also love the picture of you and Winnie. I miss her so much, oh and you too!!!! Have fun tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteAs you found out, the Roosters get very jumpy on a windy day. You will want to be as stealthy as possible. In general, but especially on a windy day, keep the talking and dog commands to a minimum. Don't slam your car doors when entering the field, etc. Park a bit away from the area that you want to hunt. Ideally, you want the birds to be unaware of your presence until you are pushing them up in gun range off of a staunch point. They are very sensitive to noise. Let me know if this approach works better for you. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteLance, Thanks so much for the advice. We will put it into practice and surely let you know. One question - what is your experience and recommendation as far as bells and beepers on the dogs (as it pertains to the noise advice)?
ReplyDelete