Those tired of traditional hunting seek ways to diversify their favorite pastime. To do this, they develop new methods of searching for games and use different types of weapons. In some cases, hunters go to nearby bodies of water and organize a hunt on the water. This entertainment gives a unique experience and lets you get new, incomparable emotions. In our article, we will tell you in detail about this method of hunting and advise you on what equipment should be prepared for it.
Features of hunting on water
Many hunters call water hunting unusual but quite enjoyable. This activity has many features; without knowing which, it will be tough to achieve positive results. First, all beginners and experienced hunters should study the list of available games. In this case, it will be pretty short since, most often, being on the water, you will only be able to hunt waterfowl. The number of available species will differ in all bodies of water, so you should find out in advance about the existence of certain inhabitants in the selected location. The most popular game among lovers of water hunting are traditionally different types of ducks and geese.
Not only are reed-covered swamps and small ponds suitable for the event, but large lakes or even rivers are also suitable. All of them are the habitat of certain types of game, hunting which will be attractive for beginners and professionals. Traditionally, water hunting involves the use of natural or artificial shelters, as well as different types of camouflage. Only in this case, ducks, geese and other waterfowl will not notice the presence of a person and will behave calmly.
To hunt on the water, fans of traditional hunting must adapt to new conditions for them. This applies not only to behavior in the territory of the selected location but also to such fundamental aspects as aiming or shooting. If you do not make any adjustments, the chances of success will be minimal. You will also need to adapt to weather conditions, the influence of which is felt more firmly on the water than during traditional hunting on land.
The best time to hunt on the water is autumn. During this period of the year, the hunting season for most waterfowl opens. In those places where hunting is allowed 365 days a year, you can also consider the period from mid-spring to mid-summer. Waterfowl are most active early in the morning or late in the evening. Therefore, this is the ideal time for hunting on the water. In addition to skill and the ability to shoot accurately under challenging conditions, hunters must show patience. If you don’t wait for the optimal moment and make a shot earlier, there may not be a second chance to complete the hunt successfully.
Necessary equipment and gear
Water hunting is quite an exotic pastime, so not all hunters know what is needed to conduct such an event. To fill this information gap, you must study our equipment and gear checklist. In it, we have collected only the most essential items, without which you cannot successfully hunt on the water.
Boat
The primary item needed for water hunting is, of course, a boat. It should be as stable as possible so that the vibrations of the water created by the wind do not interfere with regular aiming and shooting at birds. Another criterion for choosing a suitable boat for hunting is the presence of a flat bottom. Thanks to this, it will be possible to move even in shallow water, which is an ideal place for stealthy waiting for prey in the presence of various vegetation. Buying such watercraft at online auctions is better, where damaged boats are for sale. This option will allow you to save money and get the opportunity to hunt on the water. In addition to the ship itself, you must have various attributes that help set it in motion. Most often, these are ordinary oars.
Shotgun
A person on a boat can be called a hunter only if he has the right weapon. A shotgun is best suited for this type of hunting. It is always a priority option for shooting waterfowl and other aquatic inhabitants. This weapon is available in a variety of calibers. Hunters often prefer the most versatile 12-gauge, ideal for shooting birds. In addition to firearms, hunting enthusiasts need a sufficient supply of ammunition. In most cases, this is shotgun cartridges loaded with non-toxic shots. The size of the latter is selected depending on the type of bird the hunter will shoot.
Products for luring game
Very often, various baits are used to activate the hunting process. In one way or another, they help to attract the attention of waterfowl and make them swim closer to the hunter. Decoys are most often used as bait. They make it possible to produce sounds as similar as possible to the cries of a particular type of game, attracting many waterfowl to open reservoir areas. Another popular bait is floating dummies. They are made in the form of birds that are being hunted and then distributed around the reservoir. Their presence also attracts the attention of the game and increases the hunter’s chances of success. Decoys are often combined with floating dummies, further increasing both baits’ effectiveness.
Camouflage clothing
Hunting on water requires unique camouflage clothing. It must meet several criteria and not interfere with hunters performing various tasks. First, pants, jackets and other components of the outer layer of clothing must be waterproof. Otherwise, water splashes quickly wet them, and you must forget about hunting. Next, it is essential that the clothing has a properly selected camouflage pattern. Only in this case will the hunter’s camouflage in the surrounding area (for example, in reeds) be effective. Among other important points, it is necessary to highlight the need for clothing to match the weather conditions. Otherwise, hunting will be uncomfortable, and enjoying the process won’t be easy.
Optical devices
To hunt in the water, you will need modern optics. With their help, you can inspect the surrounding area and choose the best places to shoot at birds. Also, such devices will make it possible to detect and identify potential prey, thereby avoiding fines for the accidental killing of an individual protected by nature conservation organizations. Binoculars almost always act as the primary optics of water-hunting enthusiasts. They provide a good overview and enable a visual approach to the object of interest. As an alternative, modern monoculars are used. Because hunting waterfowl early in the morning or late in the evening is best, some hunters also prefer to use night vision devices. They improve visibility in poor lighting conditions and help to detect games.
Navigation equipment
You must always know where you are to hunt safely on the water. This is the reason why many hunters use modern navigation devices. They allow you to determine your location at any time and track the boat’s trajectory. Another purpose of various GPS devices is to simplify the procedure for finding a hunting spot the hunter has chosen in advance. Compasses and paper maps are sometimes used as an alternative to modern gadgets. However, this is done only in cases where more advanced devices fail or are entirely discharged.
Additional equipment
In addition to essential equipment, additional items and accessories may be needed for water hunting. Their choice depends on the terrain, the event’s duration and the goals the hunter wants to achieve. A first aid kit should be highlighted among the most popular additional items. It can be helpful at any time during a hunt, so you should always put it in your backpack. It will also not be superfluous to have several knives needed to finish off the wounded game and then cut it up. In cases where a long hunt is planned, its fans need to have a supply of food and water with them. They will help quench their thirst and replenish their energy reserves.
Water hunting is a unique activity that resembles traditional shooting at waterfowls and other games. It allows hunters to gain new experience and have a good time in nature. Before hunting, you must prepare a boat and collect the appropriate equipment. Having completed this work, you can go to any body of water and try to get your trophy. It will not be easy, but with proper preparation and a responsible attitude, the chances of success will be much higher.