Waterfowl Hunting Safety

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Waterfowl hunters face safety challenges the average land-based hunter does not.  

Water is the complicating factor. To prepare young waterfowl hunters, FWP’s Youth Waterfowl Hunting Safety workshops teach firearm safety, weather and water safety.

These lessons are a good starting point for any hunter interested in learning more about safe waterfowl hunting practices.

The waterfowl hunting season begins this year on Oct. 2, except Swans hunting in the Pacific Flyway begins Oct. 16. Check the 2004 waterfowl hunting regulations for details on season dates and other waterfowl hunting information.

Firearm Safety

* Only shoot when a bird clears head level or higher.

* Watch the muzzle while making the stalk - open the action.

* Be extra careful during loading and unloading your gun around other hunters and their dogs.

* Know where your partners and the other hunters are at all times.

* Never shoot in your partner’s direction, and consider sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with hunting partners to prevent stray shots.

* Decide which side of the blind is “your shot” ahead of time and stick to it.

* Only two hunters should shoot at any flock.

* Only one hunter should shoot at a single bird.

* Be careful of your footing, open the action when moving or wading.

* If you do fall, check your firearm carefully for barrel obstructions, mud in the action or other effects of water or mud that may hamper the safety of the firearm.

Weather

Waterfowl hunters are among the highest risk group for hypothermia because of their proximity to water, wind and poor weather conditions.  

If you fall in - go home!   Or, take a break and change into warm, dry clothes.   Be prepared to build a warming fire.   Without a readily available heat source, hypothermia can set in very quickly if you are wet, even in relatively mild weather. To stay warm and avoid hypothermia:

* Wear wool clothing or clothing that stays warm when wet, like some fleece products.   Bring extras in a waterproof bag.

* Control wind and wetness by using appropriate waterproof shells, jackets, waders and boots.  

* Bring a variety of high energy and high sugar content food bars for quick energy/calories.  

* Wear a hat.   Most warmth escapes through your head.  

* Your extremities are very important.   It’s no fun to hunt with cold feet, hands or head.   Bring chemical hand warmers for emergencies.

Boat Safety

Safety must be the first concern for hunters in boats near, in, and floating on bodies of water while dressed in heavy clothing that restricts their swimming and floating abilities.

Though a life jacket may be bulky, it will still keep a hunter afloat if it’s the appropriate size. Consider wearing a life jacket designed for waterfowl hunters called a "float coat".   They come in different camo patterns, provide excellent protection from cold, wind and rain and prolong survival time if the waterfowl hunter falls overboard. A float coat can replace your regular hunting coat while also serving as your PFD.

While preparing for the hunt, don’t forget, if you plan to use a motor boat, to check to be sure the boat is in good working condition, with enough gas for the trip to prevent you from being stranded or breaking down.

Take the proactive steps to reduce your chances of drowning.

* Make sure everyone on board a boat has a properly fitted, Coast Guard approved life jacket or float coat.

* Never stand in an unsecured boat to shoot.

* Shoot only when at a natural/comfortable angle.

* Be aware of dogs, and other partners while in a boat - be extra careful with your gun.   Like a blind, a boat is a close quarters situation.

* Unload your shotgun when moving from place to place in a boat.

* Put your unloaded shotgun in a secured case.   This keeps the shotgun cleaner and will remind you to unload before moving.  

* Floating gun cases earn their keep once the boat is upside down.

Don’t let the hazards keep you home, just plan ahead and use common sense. Getting home safe and sound makes every hunting trip a success!