NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1512382
farther away. The Lab, appropriately named something akin to Hope, has been so patient in her kennel beside the blind but will have to be patient a little while longer. There's not a single bird on the ground. Everyone sits back down, closing their eyes as they shake their heads. That was the moment that everything was right. Hide. The X. Everything. And we missed it. Since You're Gone Dad was right. Every single downed bird is a treasure, because it doesn't matter if you shot 90, nine or none last year, it can all change — for better or worse — in a minute. The nights when you mess up a flock are bad. You replay the moment repeatedly, not unlike a wayward shot from the deer stand or a missed receiver on the game-winning drive of the football game. It's painful, because you know how much work it took to put yourself in that exact spot. So, you completely understand why that guy was so happy to get rid of his decoys. It's too dang hard to get this right. But … if you ever do get it right, even one time, you have some major life decisions to make. For there is nothing, and I mean nothing, that satisfies the hunter's soul as much as being on the X with birds on the deck — with some of your favorite people right next to you. During these moments, you're convinced that guy getting rid of those decoys is the dumbest person in the world. N Goose Hunting Checklist Hunting Partners Find someone you like spending long hours with in frigid weather. Someone retired helps, as they will be able to scout. A wealthy friend definitely could help, but might not want to spend as much windshield time as you. However, they might be able to get you on the X better. A wealthy, childhood friend whose wedding you were in might be perfect. Vacation Time Being able to leave immediately is a must. You have to be on call to do this effectively. The snowstorm that was supposed to come at noon, when you told your boss you'd need to leave by 11 a.m. so you have enough hunting time, sped through Colorado and will be here by 9 a.m. Birds will want to get their feeding bags on. You will need a gift for your boss come the Holidays. Storage Decoys of various types, including ducks just in case that becomes a option, are not small. An extra garage stall is good — a dedicated goose shed is better. You'll also need to find a place for your new dog, backup shotgun, shells and bulky hunting clothes. Wader hooks are nice, so they can easily dry, and you'll probably want to save some room for your 4-wheel drive truck. A place to clean birds? Optional. Let's not be totally outrageous. Sometimes flags and a great hide aren't enough to entice birds in your direction. December 2023 • Nebraskaland 33