Late season goose hunting can be a boon or a bust. My brother Darryl and I tried it yesterday, and only saw one flock of geese that were not interested in our set-up. We started the morning at a balmy 19 degrees, but by the time we called it quits it was right around 26 degrees. You have to be just a little “crazy” to spend the amount of time and energy needed to pull off a good goose hunt. But; when the birds respond, cup their wings, and are “surprised” by the first muzzle blast, it makes it all worth it!
Well that is not what happened yesterday, but honestly it was a good day anyway. I don’t get to see Darryl on a regular basis, and we were able to catch up on the “happenings” in one another’s lives. The four hours sitting (and tripping over cornstalks) on the frozen ground gave us ample opportunity to “catch up!” I had several hand-warmers stuffed in my pockets, and a set of toe warmers in my boots, so being cold wasn’t really a factor. Hey the sun came up, God granted us another day, and we were thankful we could take it all in once again. We have learned, over the years, that a successful day of hunting is not determined by the amount of game taken, but by the love and comradeship of those closest to you.
After we collected goose decoys and packed up blinds we paid a visit to one of Darryl’s buddies Dan Briskey. Turns out I was in basic training with Dan, and his twin brother Don, 47 years ago. We had not crossed paths in all these ensuing years, and it was good to visit with Dan over a cup of coffee for awhile. I also got to met his wife Pam, who must be a real Saint, putting up with Dan’s antics all these years.
No grilled goose breast today, but I am planning a venison roast for dinner. Now that’s certainly something to be thankful for!
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Just being out there is completely worth it, Mike. Plus, coming inside, after being out in the cold for so long, is one of the best feelings in the world!