It is safe to say that snow goose hunting changed over the last 20 years. Ever since the Light Goose Conservation Order (LGCO) put in place in 1999, many new developments entered the goose hunting scene. Some of these advancements include new strategies, new types of decoys, and, of course, different hunting times. The order also approved the use of electronic callers, allowing for the attraction of more geese than ever before. For hunters of snow geese, the law is an excellent opportunity to go hunting throughout the fall and the spring. However, some people believe the order highly devalues the presence of these geese. Overall, it is vital to recognize these changes created by the LGCO before gathering your decoys and shotgun shells.
The Conservation Order's Purpose and Effect
The goal of the LGCO is to maintain the population of snow geese. Each year before the enacted order, the population of snow geese increased by five percent. As a result, many resources depleted in arctic and sub-arctic environments for other animals. Therefore, the order encourages snow goose hunting in the spring and fall to control the large population of snow geese. Before the LGCO took place, there were many restrictions placed on snow goose hunting. After its passage, hunters could utilize electronic callers and unplugged shotguns.
Additionally, the permitted hours for hunting these birds extended. They now begin half an hour before sunrise and end half an hour after sunset. Before setting out on your hunt, you should remember to bring your hunting license along. The LGCO requires that participants of a snow goose hunt always possess their license no matter if they are hunting alone in a field with decoys or with a tour guide.
How to Have a Successful Hunt
The spring is a prime time for hunting geese, especially at the beginning of March. This is when snow geese migration is at its height, so you can be sure to see lots of potential game. Sometimes the weather can be a factor when goose hunting. It may improve your hunting numbers and your overall experience. For hunting in the fall, overcast weather is the best. In the spring, you should wait for sunny days with clear skies.
Finding the right time to hunt is just as important as finding the correct location. Spring snow goose hunting is prevalent in Arkansas, but many other experienced hunters enjoy going to Missouri and even Canada. Even if you are not an experienced hunter, you can enjoy the scenery while getting familiar with the hunt. Look to find a hunting guide that you trust that takes you through the process of fall or spring snow goose hunting. Additionally, you can participate in guided hunts that help sharpen your skills.
The hunt for these birds became less regulated in the spring and fall due to the LGCO. Your snow goose hunts contribute to the maintaining of snow geese populations. To ensure you have successful hunts, find areas that typically hold lots of geese during their spring migration season. Look for a field to set up your camp. If you cannot find a field, then search for small bodies of water. Hunters with experience recommend setting up on the south side of the water so that the birds can naturally make their way to you. When it comes to finding the perfect location that attracts lots of birds, the decoys and electronic callers become less significant. Although they may be useful, it all depends on your personal hunting preference. After finding the migration of snow geese, many guides may tell you to wait. Do not aim for the first snow goose that you see. The birds toward the front of the migration are usually older and wiser. They can outsmart the first shot. Instead, wait until the middle of the party of geese so that you can shoot the ones with less experience. Doing so may lead to a larger bag at the end of the day.
If you want to find a unique and popular site to hunt, then look no further than Canada. This country is wildly famous for its snow goose hunting. A trip up north for a Canada goose hunt is surely more unique than snow geese hunting in the United States. Any hunting guide for spring snow goose may even recommend visiting Saskatchewan. This province is one of the best places not only for spring snow goose hunts but also for duck hunts. You can easily diversify the location of your spring snow goose hunts. Especially for the spring season, any guide may tell you that goose hunting Canada is an advantageous experience.
The Benefits of Hunting
One of the most significant rewards after successful spring snow goose hunts is bringing home your products. Not only do you contribute to maintaining the spring snow goose population, but you also can cook up the fresh catch. There are myths that these birds do not taste too great. However, when appropriately prepared, you can make a delicious and savory spread. Thanks to the developments of hunting after the LGCO, the hunting season can be more successful than ever before, ensuring that you come home with the greatest catch.
