The seasons of change are fast approaching and if you’re an outdoor enthusiast like me you’ve already done some target shooting or at least opened your gun cabinet for the first time since last fall or maybe this past spring, if you went turkey hunting.

Preparation is something I take very serious so I usually follow a checklist to ensure I have everything in order.  I’ve already participated in the early goose season so I’ve done some prep but many more hours are still necessary.

Here is a checklist for starters:

1. Clean and perform a good inspection of your firearms.  If you are planning on dove and waterfowl hunting make sure your plug is in.
2. Purchase your licenses and schedule your vacation accordingly.
3. Inspect all your ammunition to determine there are no visual defects.  Purchase additional ammo now to eliminate the rush prior to every opener.
4. Check your clothes to make sure they fit…  I have had most of my hunting clothes for years so it can be expensive if you need to purchase any new items.
5. Check your boot so you don’t have any leaks.  Finding out you have a leak in the early morning hours is not fun.  Review your walking boots and make sure they are still waterproof.
6. Practice blowing your duck and goose calls (outside
   preferably) to brush up on some things.
7. Locate your plat books for private land references.  Keep in your truck or duffel bag for quick reference.  Make notes and keep phone numbers handy for quick reference.
8. Pack a bag with multiple changes of clothes.  I also have at least two t-shirts and pairs of socks so I can change into a dry shirt or socks when necessary.  If room permits add a pair of pants and extra shirt, too.
9. Binoculars and spotting scopes need to be inspected and cleaned.
10. Change oil and have your truck maintenance current to eliminate any major issues.  Check your tires and replace if questionable….Off road driving is more susceptible to problems, especially with older tires.
11. Take you son, daughter or grandchildren with you to introduce them to the sport.  We are an aging population and the hunting community is no exception.

I’ve been hunting since I was about 10 years old so my experience spans over 40 years now; hard to imagine.   Every opening day I’m reminded how much I enjoy hunting.   Sleepless nights in anticipation continue even after 50 years of age.

Over the past 20 years I’ve hunted in South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Wyoming and Saskatchewan Canada so I’ve done a variety of hunting in various areas for various species.  My main love is bird hunting but deer hunting is a close second.  Most of my hunting experiences are shared with family with the exception of a couple livelong friends.  I will reference there presence and provide a perspective that I’m sure most people can relate to.   My steady companion on any bird hunt is my yellow Lab, Duke and I will reference Duke numerous times.  I’m continually amazed by his acute hearing and site, accompanied with his steadfast energy to keep hunting, even after covering 10 times the ground I do!

My intentions with writing a blog is to share memories and stories plus provide some insight and tips.  I will attempt to keep readers up to date on changes within the area and provide any reports I can verify.