Hunting season is just around the corner, and bird hunters everywhere are getting ready for another exciting year in the field. While bird hunting can be a challenging sport, there are a few tricks that can help you up your game and bag more birds. The key is to be as efficient as possible in the field.
Here are five bird hunting tricks you should master before heading out this season:
1. Choosing the Right Bird Hunting Rifle
If you want to be successful in bird hunting, you must choose the right rifle or shotgun. Not all rifles are created equal, and each type has strengths and weaknesses. For instance, air guns are an excellent choice if you’re looking for versatility. They’re quiet, lightweight, and easy to carry.
Also, learn some bird hunting tricks with your air gun, such as:
- How to shoot in low light
- How to shoot from a moving vehicle
- How to find the right ammunition
- How to take care of your air gun
With the right rifle, the proper skills, and practice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful bird hunter.
2. Identifying Bird Calls and Mimicry
You should also know the different calls of the birds you’re trying to hunt. By learning the calls, you’ll locate birds in the field better. There are a variety of resources available to help you learn bird calls, so take advantage of them before heading out this season. Apart from identifying calls, you should also learn how to mimic them.
This will give you a better chance of attracting the birds. There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to mimicking bird calls.
- First, you need to know the territory of the bird you’re trying to attract. Different birds have different ranges, so it’s important to know where the bird you’re trying to attract is likely to be.
- Second, you need to be aware of the time of year. Birds are more likely to respond to calls during mating season.
- Finally, you should make sure that your call sounds natural. If it sounds too mechanical, the birds will be less likely to come toward you.
3. Setting Up of Decoys
Decoys can be a valuable tool when bird hunting. By setting up decoys, you can attract birds to your position and make them easier to shoot. Make sure you use legal decoys in your state or province. Here are a few tips on setting up decoys:
- Place your decoys in an open area where they’ll be visible to approaching birds.
- Set up your decoys in a “U” or “J” configuration with the point of the “U” or “J” facing into the wind.
- This will make it appear as if the decoys are coming into the wind, which is a natural position for birds.
- Use a variety of decoys to give the impression of a mixed flock. Include both male and female decoys, as well as different species of birds.
- Don’t forget to include a few decoys that are in flight.
4. Dressing for Success
When bird hunting, what you wear matters. Wearing bright colors can make you more visible to birds, which makes them more likely to avoid you. Choose muted colors like brown, green, or black when choosing your bird hunting clothing. Opt for camouflage patterns over solids for the best results. They will help you blend in with your surroundings.
Wearing the right clothing can also help you stay comfortable while bird hunting. Choose breathable fabrics and layers that you can easily remove if you start to feel too warm. For footwear, wearing boots that are too heavy can tire you out quickly, but shoes that aren’t sturdy enough may not provide the support you need when walking over uneven terrain.
Choose a boot with a good tread that will help you keep your footing, even in wet or icy conditions. Finally, don’t forget to accessorize. A hat can help keep the sun out of your eyes, and a pair of binoculars can help you spot birds from a distance.
5. Reading Bird Body Language
Another important bird hunting trick is learning to read bird body language. By studying how birds interact with their environment and each other, you can better understand what they’re thinking and feeling. This knowledge can help you make better decisions about when to shoot and when to let them fly away.
Here are a few things to look for:
- The direction of a bird’s gaze can indicate whether it has spotted you or not. If it’s looking away from you, there’s a good chance it hasn’t seen you yet.
- Birds will often give themselves away by making noise. Pay attention to the sounds they’re making and see if you can interpret what they’re trying to say.
- How a bird stands can also give clues about its state of mind. For example, a bird that’s hunched over is usually scared or nervous, while one that’s standing tall and erect is usually more confident.
6. Reading the Wind
Learning how to read the wind is also critical. By understanding how the wind affects both you and your hunting target, you can set up for a more efficient and accurate shot with your hunting shotgun. Here are a few key things to keep in mind when trying to read the wind:
- Wind direction is just as important as speed. The direction will determine how your scent is carried, as well as the sound of your shot if you’re not using a silent rifle like an air gun.
- Check the surrounding area for clues about wind direction. Look for things like ripples on water or tree branches that are bent in a certain direction.
- Don’t forget to account for the wind when you’re aiming. A strong wind can cause your shot to go off course, so be sure to adjust your aim accordingly.
7. Patience and Good Eye Coordination Matters
Finally, bird hunters must be patient and have good hand-eye coordination. Often, the bird will not present itself until the last minute, so bird hunters must be prepared to take a shot quickly and accurately. Good eye coordination is also crucial for following the bird in flight and predicting its movements.
Mastering these hunting skills can increase your chances of success and enjoyment while out in the field. Go ahead and give them a try on your next bird hunting adventure.
Summary:
To be successful, bird hunters must master some key skills: choosing the right hunting accessories, identifying bird calls, mimicry, setting up decoys, dressing in camouflage, reading the wind, anticipating the bird’s movements, having patience, good eye coordination, and marksmanship. These skills are essential for taking down birds in flight and tracking them through dense brush. With a little practice, anyone can develop these skills and enjoy a successful bird hunting adventure.