Cattle tanks, stock ponds, or other small water bodies offer outstanding, easy hunting opportunities.
Story and Photography by Nate Skinner

What makes a hunter get out of warm bed in the chilly wee hours of a winter morning to go spend time in the mud, muck, and brutal elements? This is a question I’ve often asked myself after a duck hunt, especially when the results of my efforts were straps too barren for my liking.
It’s no secret that duck hunting and work go hand in hand. Depending on the location and type of terrain being hunted, the set-up process alone often takes place hours before the sun comes up. Whether the adventure involves drudging through swamp-like mud or toting around hoards of decoys and gear, the sport offers little sympathy to the weary and weak of heart.
Despite the fact that duck hunting can involve some tough conditions and situations, waterfowl hunters continue obsessing with the tradition of fooling birds with fowl-like fakes year after year. This is true even when the outcome of the hard work isn’t a pile of ducks. The good news is more exceptional opportunities await, many of which provide easier access to the birds than some might think possible.

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