Winter conditions are starting to settle in, Christmas is becoming a reality and the latter portion of big game hunting seasons are knocking at the door. When the bird hunting season gets underway, many active hunters focus on geese, mallards, and grouse, often putting their equipment away all too soon. The late season hunt is one of the best for some of the biggest and healthiest migratory species. All the Bufflehead and Goldeneye hunters out there know to start preparing soon, as the season is getting close.
Northeastern Ontario is along the route of the Mississippi and Atlantic Flyways providing opportunities that should not be overlooked. The biggest and densest flocks are making their way south from the furthest northern reaches, including some of the fastest ducks to test your shooting skill levels. The black-bellied whistling ducks, or whistlers, as they are affectionately known, could easily be the fastest of the waterfowl. They get their name from the the whistling sound their wings make as they fly. These birds make for great sport. Don’t hesitate try your luck on some late fall waterfowling!