Both Barrels June 2021

Time sure has flown as we already have just less than a month of waterfowl season to go – make sure you get out and make the most of it!

Mallards are in good condition as plenty of puddles have been popping up across the region offering a high protein source of food.

As per usual there are plenty of good hunting opportunities on our rivers.

The key to a successful hunt on the river is to put in the time scouting and finding those duck camps.

Take some binos and look for at least 20 birds in a group, which at this time of year should give you about 10 opportunities.

Make sure to set up in the dark, and pairs should filter back to their camp in the morning light.

Not too much calling will be needed, but half a dozen good quality decoys usually do the trick.

If scouting by foot is out of the question, as of June 1^st, drift shooting is allowed on our rivers and can be something a bit different to do, and an easy way to find where big groups are camping up – make sure to take the GPS and mark them for accessing later!

After Opening is a great time to get those youngsters or your other half out where you can focus on setting them up for opportunities whilst passing on your knowledge of duck hunting and instilling gun safety.

Get amongst and hot barrels!

Warm Barrels

Erin Garrick, Southland Fish & Game Officer.