Know-How: Snow Buddies

by
posted on March 1, 2017
snow_buddies_f.jpg

To the uninitiated, spring snow goose hunting might just seem like another corner of the waterfowl world. It’s not—and it’s not for the faint of heart, either. No matter how hard you try, success often boils down to being at the right spot at the right time. Here are two types of people who can help you make that happen.

Landowners
Introduce yourself to as many local farmers and landowners as possible, and stay in touch with them about where the birds are—or if they’re around at all. Start the conversation and secure hunting permission before the season so you’ll be set when the geese arrive. When you locate birds, be prepared to hunt them all day. Snows move at all hours during the reverse migration, and you need to be ready when they decide it’s time to land. You can’t shoot triple-digit bags from your couch.

Outfitters
Get to know the outfitters in your area—or those 1,000 miles away, if you’d prefer. Call them, talk shop, share stories—they’re hunters, too, and are usually pretty friendly. Let them know you’d love to kill some snow geese. Every year, outfitters across the nation have dropouts and cancellations, sometimes just when the birds are ready to work. If you hit it off with an outfitter, he may drop you a line when he has a spot or two open up at the last minute. Sure it’ll cost you a few bucks and you’ll have to move quickly, but if you can afford to be on call, it’s the best chance you’ll have to hit the snow goose lottery. Indecisive types need not apply.

Trust me—when it's good, it's great. Get more information on that here.

Latest

001 4BBT Holster 01
001 4BBT Holster 01

4 Reasons Big-Bore Revolvers Are Still Ideal Trail Guns

Although semi-automatic pistols have a place in the trail gun line up, revolvers still have their advantages.

First Look: Rise Reliant Bolt-Action Trigger

Rise Triggers has entered the bolt-action market with its first-ever trigger for the Remington 700 platform: the Reliant Hunter and Reliant Pro triggers.

NRA Announces New Club Leadership & Development Online Course

The National Rifle Association of America is pleased to announce the release of its newly revised edition of the NRA Club Leadership & Development Online Course.

USDA Order is a Win for Wildlife

Late last month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a memorandum to conserve and restore wildlife habitat connectivity in the United States, directing agencies within the USDA to consider habitat connectivity in planning and programs in a manner that recognizes State and Tribal authorities and respects private property rights.

Review: Beretta BRX1

Beretta calls the BRX1 the fastest manually operated repeating platform on the market. Quick barrel, bolt and magazine swaps and adjustable ergonomics make it a distinct alternative to the classic turn-bolt for just about anyone, and ambidextrous controls make the rifle an attractive choice for lefties.

Are Premium Steel Waterfowl Shells Worth the Price?

With prices approaching those of bismuth—a superior shot-making material—are top-tier steel loads worth the cost? Here is what you need to know to make an informed decision.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.