This was not one of the best years for bird numbers. especially when it got into the later part of the season. So I was not expecting much but since it was the last day, I had to get out.
Hit some cattails where the dogs have at least been kicking out a couple of hens. It seemd like things were going to happen like before. Almost to the end of the first patch I seen a hen flush way in front of us. Ok, at least seen a bird. Made the loop and on the way back it looked like the dogs were not going to get anything up. Got to the end where I usually head back to the truck but figured I could go a little longer. Headed along the edge of the cattails that is bordered by woods. Within 5 minutes I heard the cackle of a rooster on the fly. I did not see him but a good sign anyway. Very shortly after that the dogs flushed a hen and a moment later a rooster broke. Close enough to get a shot off, Not an easy shot but the rooster folded and the dogs were quickly on it. We continued on our way I could tell the dogs were birdy as hell. All of a sudden a group of 8 or so birds flushed. Two roosters in the group so I got another shot off. Another not so close shot and this time I missed. I figured this has been a good way to close the season and chances of seeing more birds was unlikely. Besides I was walking in knee deep snow and ready to head for the truck. I decided to loop part way back through the cattails and finish the last part with the wind in the dogs favor. On the way back got the best shot of the day. Another rooster flushed and had to elevate to clear the trees. Got a good bead on him and folded him up.
The pictures are not the best because for some reason the viewfinder does not work. Batteries went dead so I did not get any pictures of the birds. All and all a good end to the season.
Pete, this was my second choice to hit yesterday. Should of hit it instead of the area we went. 
December 31, 2009 at 11:05 pm
#212173
