According to the latest Ducks Unlimited migration report, a lot of ducks are still stationed in the Northern Plains. Another arctic push and continued freezing temperatures are needed to push the remaining ducks and geese south into Texas. Reports out of Montana and the Dakotas indicate that the ducks are hanging around in large open water since many of the prairie potholes are freezing. Places like the Missouri River are serving as hosting spots for wildfowl. Biologists report that it is unusual for this many ducks to be seen in early December.
So if your mornings are slow this weekend, just know that there are many more ducks waiting to head south when the second split of the season begins Dec. 20.
And remember that our retrievers do not have their winter coats yet so make sure that you have a vest on your favorite hunting partner since the water temperatures are becoming much cooler.
Good luck!
Larry Lauck, Treasurer
Lone Star Hunting Retriever Club
Field Expert, Sporting Dog Team
Drake Waterfowl Products, Inc.