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While drinking coffee and reading the latest issue of Ducks Unlimited, I decided that I want to shoot a goose. I know nothing about it; not what type of gun and ammo to use or how close I need to be. I did learned that the season in Maine is the fall, which will work well for my schedule and learning curve.
When I was younger, my neighbor and I would track geese in the corn fields. We were not trying to hurt the birds, just wanted to see how close we could get. At our best, we got within 20 feet of a flock of snow geese before they saw up coming up over the knoll. The thunderous sound of the birds taking off was startling and amazing.
I have never shot a bird, only deer. Dad and I will go turkey hunting again this spring, but I think I want to learn how to hunt geese.
Any tips or comments that I should know before I jump into this new adventure?
Erin if you try waterfowling you will be hooked so be prepared for a new passion. Waterfowling can be frustrating at times, but it is addicting. The biggest challenge is these birds can move large distances at any time and depending on their needs – food, shelter, water, etc this will happen daily or even by the hour. Scouting is your friend when waterfowling. Find where the birds want to be and gain access to that spot and you will win. – Well normally. I am no professional in any shape or form but I would be willing to help you out on your new mission if interested.
Yes! I will take you up on that offer. There are corn fields near my deer hunting area that are always stopping points for geese. I think I have seen them every fall for the past 20 years. I am hoping that if I talk to the landowner, he will let me hang out there for a little bit and see if I can shoot one… and what would I use to shoot said goose with??
Passinthru is right. Hunt where the birds want to be. I guess the saying is true with deer, turkeys, and squirrels too. Try and find some open fresh water this time of year like a river. I am willing to bet it will have ducks and geese working hard to keep it open. Once most of the fields get snow covered and ponds and rivers freeze they make their way to the saltwater. You will like waterfowl hunting.
Thanks Savage! I'm excited to try it and see how I like it. I clearly have a lot to learn between now and this fall.
Erin…before I moved to the Eastern Shore of MD seven years ago, I had never hunted, period. Waterfowling can be gear intensive and addictive, as mentioned before, but it is a great deal of fun and a great way to spend time with other hunters. To your point on what to use, I would recommend a 12GA with 28" barrel and Mod choke. Shots will be under 35 yards, generally, and I find 3 inch #2's steel works well. Alternatively, my son uses a 20GA with 26" with 3 inch #2's and does well. Keep an eye on their head and let them come to you…best of luck..Phil