12 excellent ways to totally botch your duck hunt

#8 CALL TOO MUCH

Ducks are very vocal and respond well to calls. When I was hunting with some of the best callers in the game, it became obvious to me that a proficient caller who knows what sounds to make—and when to make them—can work birds right into the landing zone. On the other hand, a hunter who makes calls that are unnatural, too loud or poorly timed will spook ducks.

Hail calls are good for catching the attention of distant ducks. Once the birds are locked in, though, it’s time to quit calling and let them approach. If the ducks start to slide off, give them a few clucks and feeding chuckles to entice them closer. As the ducks circle your spread to check things out, don’t call if they’re head on, as they will pinpoint you. Instead, only call if the birds are upwind on the corners of the spread.