Otago > Hunting News April 08

Paddock Duckies

As the hunting season progresses mallard ducks become wise to the ways of hunters and seek open areas well away from any cover that could hide danger. They will often roost and feed in paddocks and avoid flying near trees or tall vegetation. These birds are commonly referred to as paddock ducks and require a change of hunting tactics.

On locating some paddock ducks you will need to find out when they fly in and be prepared to set up an ambush. The key to successful paddock hunting is a low profile hide, lots of realistic decoys and some good calling. Coffin blinds commonly used for goose hunting are great but if you don’t have access to one try digging a pit, covering yourself with grass from the paddock, or using a quality camo cover. Some of the new covers on the market today are very effective and reasonably priced. The more decoys the better and consider some of the modern shell and full body mallards which are proving very popular. Alternatively you could arrange some normal decoys on stands or utilise aged floaters by removing the keels. Conceal your hideaway as close to your decoys as you can and remember ducks land into the wind so set your decoy spread accordingly.

Finally, if possible plan your shoot for a really windy day, as ducks will decoy easier and provide you with better shooting opportunities.

back to Both Barrels

If you would like to be kept in touch with Gamebird hunting news and other hunting information, please sign up for Both Barrels, our Gamebird hunting email newsletter.