[ER4]

Hey all,
Just joined the group and really excited about hunting this year. I'm new to waterfowl hunting and am really excited. I know that I'm jumping into this the middle of the season but I thought I would get a couple of hunts under my belt before the season ended to start getting ready for next year. I have a few question though,so if you guys could help I would appreciate it.

1. Is the Mossberg 835 a decent gun to start out with?
2. Is there a decent place around Phoenix (1hour away) to get a few hunts under my belt.
3. Where is a decent place to buy waterfowl gear, even if its used.

Any other advice would be great, have a happy holidays.

 

[had]

howdy. good idea to start hunting this year. you can tackle next year with some betyter ideas.

#1- yes it is my partner uses one and it is a great gun.

#2- not sure bout that one.

#3- i buy all my stuff through cabelas and sportsmen warehouse right there in phoenix.

good luck!

had

 

[AZ. Duckman]

had hit the nail on the head for questions 1 and 3.

As for number 2, pretty much all the rivers and lakes 1 hour from Phoenix or less hold ducks this time of year. Not very many birds in the early season, but after the water freezes up north then they start heading south.

A couple of suggestions...

1) Concealment is key, if they see you they're gone.
2) Learn how to call, buy tapes and dvd's and learn the mallard hen and the widgeon whistle.
3) Arrange decoys in sort of an organized blob with room for ducks to land in the middle. They land into the wind.
4) Buy a waterfowl identification book and know what you can and can't shoot.

Good luck, hope this helps!!!