It’s the time of year that many outdoors enthusiasts dream about, yearn for, and love - the fall hunting season in Minnesota is in full swing. Goose, duck, bear, archery deer, and grouse are all sought after game species for folks afield this time of year in northeastern Minnesota and across the state. 

As we enter the second weekend of the waterfowl season we have the confidence of knowing that the hunting was good across most of the state for the opener.  Steve Cordts, DNR waterfowl specialist, reported that blue-winged teal, wood duck and mallard comprised most of the harvest during the opening weekend.  You can view the full news release on the Department of Natural Resources web page (http://news.dnr.state.mn.us/2012/09/26/duck-season-off-to-good-start-split-season-closures-in-central-and-south-duck-zones-start-oct-1/#more-9981)

In the Tower work area this past week we have seen an increase in the amount of mallards and ring-necks, both in numbers and flock size, on and around our various wetlands, rice lakes, and river systems.  While blue-winged teal numbers have dropped off, hunters can still expect to see quite a few wood ducks out on the marsh this weekend. 

Early goose season may have ended on Sept. 21, but there’s still plenty of opportunity to find and add those three birds to your daily bag.  Don’t be afraid to include those confidence goose floaters amongst your dabbler spread.

A wealth of information can be found on the DNR web page before heading out to the marsh before this second weekend.  Follow the most up-to-date reports for hunter activity, harvest success, habitat conditions, waterfowl migrations and weather conditions from the link on the waterfowl hunting page (http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/hunting/waterfowl/index.html).

As you head out this weekend with decoys, dogs, boats, canoes, and all your gear in tow; take a moment to breathe in that crisp morning air and enjoy the wonders of a fall sunrise over the marsh while you eagerly await the sound of wings whistling above you!