Part 1
September goose hunting season is one of the most exciting times of the year for avid hunters. However, before heading out to the fields, it’s crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary equipment and knowledge to make the most of your hunting experience.
This is where a pre-season checklist comes in handy. A comprehensive pre-season checklist can help hunters prepare adequately and ensure that they have everything they need for a successful hunt. Every detail counts, from selecting the right decoys to scouting the perfect location. This article provides a comprehensive guide to a pre-season checklist for September goose hunting, covering everything from gear and equipment to scouting and hunting techniques.
Scouting for September Goose Hunting
Scouting is a crucial part of September goose hunting. It involves examining the landscape, identifying the birds’ feeding and roosting locations, and determining the best place to set up a hide. Proper scouting can make the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating day in the field.
When scouting for Canada geese, hunters should look for wheat fields, small grains, and alfalfa fields. These areas are prime feeding locations for Canada geese, and they are often used by local birds. Golf courses can also be attractive to geese, especially if they are near water.
When scouting for geese, it is essential to pay attention to the time of day and the birds’ behavior. Geese are most active early in the morning and late in the afternoon. They also tend to move around during the day, so it is vital to keep an eye on their movements.
It is a game changer to obtain permission to hunt on private land sometimes. Landowners can provide valuable information about the birds’ movements and feeding locations. Hunters should also be aware of any hunting regulations in the area, including bag limits and shooting hours. When trying to gain access the best way to do it is in person. A knock and question can go much further than writing a letter or other means of asking for permission.
Gearing Up for the Hunt
Preparing for a September goose hunt requires careful planning and attention to detail. The right gear can make all the difference in the success of the hunt. Here are some essential items to consider when gearing up for a September goose hunt.
Guns and Ammunition
The gun and ammunition choices are the most crucial parts of any hunting trip. Hunters should choose a shotgun that is comfortable to shoot and has a suitable gauge for goose hunting. A 12-gauge shotgun is the most common choice for goose hunting, but a 20-gauge can also be effective depending on the hunter’s preference.
Retay USA’s semi-auto shotguns are an excellent choice for Canada Goose hunting. Our Masai Mara , and Gordion with their Inertia Plus System, ensure reliability in diverse weather conditions, crucial for unpredictable September changing climates. With barrel lengths up to 28″, they provide the reach necessary for geese in flight. Retay’s Optional Cerakote finish aids durability, while the interchangeable chokes offer versatility. The lightweight and ergonomic design ensure comfort during long hunting days. Retay’s semi-auto shotguns present a harmonious blend of functionality and convenience for any goose hunter.
Using size 2 shot for Canada Goose hunting can be an effective choice, especially at closer ranges or over decoys. These slightly smaller pellets offer a higher pellet count per shell, improving the chances of hitting vital areas. They are suitable for taking down geese within 30-40 yards, especially when using modern, high-velocity loads that retain energy well. While size 2 may not carry as much individual pellet energy as larger sizes like BB or BBB, its effectiveness comes from skilled shot placement. When used correctly, size 2 shot can result in efficient, ethical, and successful Canada Goose hunting.
Decoys and Calls
Decoys and calls are essential for attracting geese to the hunting area. Full-body decoys and panel blinds are popular options for goose hunting. Hunters should also consider using a variety of calls, including short reed goose calls and flute goose calls, to increase their chances of success.
Silhouette
Silhouette decoys can be a highly effective tool for hunting Canada Geese. They offer a realistic representation of geese from a distance, and their flat design allows for easy transportation and setup, making them ideal for hunters on the move or those needing large spreads. Silhouettes work best in fields where geese are accustomed to seeing birds on the ground. Their two-dimensional design also offers an advantage in windy conditions, where they mimic the natural movement of geese. However, their effectiveness can diminish at close ranges due to their lack of three-dimensionality. Therefore, combining them with full-body or shell decoys can yield the best results.
Full body
Full Body decoys are an excellent choice for Canada Goose hunting, offering an unmatched level of realism. They give a three-dimensional appearance, which can be more convincing to wary geese, especially at close range. Full body decoys are usually designed with various realistic postures that mimic live geese, adding authenticity to your spread. They are ideal for field hunting situations and are highly effective when used near feeding or resting areas. However, they require more space for transportation and storage compared to other decoy types. Despite being more labor-intensive to set up, their high level of realism can significantly improve hunting success.
Blinds and Concealment
Layout Blind
Hunting geese from layout blinds offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides excellent concealment. The low profile of a layout blind blends into the environment, making it hard for geese to spot you. Secondly, it offers comfort. Lying or sitting in a blind can be more comfortable over long periods compared to standing or crouching. Thirdly, the blinds are portable and easy to set up. They allow you to position yourself optimally according to wind and sun direction. Finally, with their weather-resistant materials, layout blinds can protect you from harsh weather conditions, enabling a more enjoyable and successful hunting experience.
Frame style
Frame style blinds offer unique advantages for goose hunting. They provide excellent coverage, hiding hunters from the watchful eyes of geese. With their elevated and solid structure, they afford a wider field of view than layout blinds, allowing hunters to spot incoming flocks earlier. Frame blinds often have room for multiple hunters, making them ideal for group hunts. They can also include comfortable seating and enough space for gear storage. Built with sturdy materials, they withstand harsh weather conditions, providing shelter from rain, wind, and cold. Moreover, their semi-permanent nature allows for custom camouflage with natural vegetation, enhancing concealment.
Stick Around for Part 2
