A duck hunting blind is a staple in the world of duck hunting. Being able to hunt to your heart’s desire with the element of surprise is very valuable. Hunters are a very welcoming group of people. Therefore, it isn’t uncommon for them to invite people on a hunt. Be that as it may, you may never get invited again if you don’t have the correct etiquette. It’s more than just about showing up. There’s a certain standard of behavior that’s expected on a duck hunting trip, which means being a freeloader or being inconsiderate can easily get you kicked out. Below are the steps you can take if you don’t want to deal with being on the receiving end of a booting.
Train Your Dog
Duck hunting dogs are very popular in the sport of waterfowl hunting. However, even the dogs that are bred for hunting need some amount of formal training before they are ready to head out into the field. Without the said training, what should be an asset could quickly become one of your greatest liabilities. No one is saying that your dog needs to win any awards for being the best-trained dog in the world; however, it needs to know how to act in the field. Good dog manners are required as they prevent your dog from doing things such as breaking before the shots, barking consistently, or not behaving.
Stay in Your Zone
If the blind weren’t big enough, it wouldn’t be used. This is the reason that you’re allocated your own section during the duck hunt. It shows that you respect your fellow hunters when you shoot within your zone. Don’t be sticking your head around other people to grab a quick shot in someone else’s zone.
Contribute
Going on a duck hunting trip and using their blind isn’t a cost-free experience. Funding is required for things such as gas or blind meals. This applies whether the meals are being home-cooked or not. This one isn’t even hunting etiquette as much as it is common courtesy. If you’re looking to benefit from something that requires effort to put together, the least you can do is to be a part of that effort. Contribute your fair share to the expenses and pull your own weight in the field. Clean up after yourself by removing any wrappers or cans you drop, as well as your shot shells.
Observe Firearm Safety
Firearm safety rules don’t exist for show. They exist to protect you and everyone around you. No one wants to share a duck hunting blind with someone who is a clear hazard. First, don’t keep the gun’s muzzle in the blind as you load or reload it. Second, use gun holders where possible, as leaning your gun against the wall in an unsafe manner is a setup for disaster. Finally, try to avoid accidentally kicking the gun or randomly waving it around. Be cognizant of your actions always, especially when you’re armed with a dangerous weapon.
Don’t Anticipate the Caller
It’s understandable than hunting can make you a bit excited. However, jumping the gun can ruin the experience as you may end up getting nothing for your effort. The blind exists for a reason, and there’s no point in having one just to be a waterfowl repellent. Don’t be quick to stick your head up and look around when you hear of an incoming flock. Also, don’t try to beat your fellow hunters to the punch. All you’re asking for by doing so is a bunch of missed shots, as well as the ire of the rest of your camp.
Be Punctual
Hunters select their times strategically, and when you’re invited to a blind for a duck hunt, you’re expected to be present at the designated time. Missing first shooting light is a big deal, and you don’t want to be the reason for that happening. When you do arrive, ensure that you stay alert and pay keen attention on your journey to the blind.
Be Showy
Even if you’re a naturally confident person, you might want to slow it down a bit during duck hunting. The sport makes for a lot of fun stories, but no one likes the guy who feels as if he always needs to outdo everyone else’s stories. Also, wait for birds to be retrieved before you claim any birds.