Addicted to quack, and I'm the dealer...

The good work of my oldest who is home with the flu...

Finally, the weather made for favorable conditions for a chance to do some sea duck hunting. The plans had been put in motion earlier in the week and the extended forecast continually showed true promise. Although the swine flu had found its way into the homestead, my wife encouraged me to take advantage of the spectacular weather. She thought the children would still be sleeping even after my return home.


Diesel embracing the moment as Duck Power finally gets out

This story has another angle besides the fact that Diesel and I could finally attend a quality duck shoot. A newbie had been actively inquiring about this "sea ducking" that Diesel discussed ever so often. It was determined that this aspiring hunter would be joining us with the expectation rendered (Safety, Safety, & Safety) when introducing any new waterfowler to our craft. Armed with his apprentice license and a shiny duck stamp, Chris became a sponge of learning and his instant admiration of our practice was evident.


The lad had no idea what he was getting into...

After discovering his last time shooting a firearm was fifteen years ago, I informed him that this was heroin and I am the dealer. He grinned as Diesel supported my claim with the devious grin often seen when Duck Power took to the high seas. It is important to understand that I'm not joking here, there exists this amazing surge of interest and inquisition every time I say this to any new hunter of my boat. I then let the experience do the rest. Today would be no different.



Shortly after legal shooting, Diesel and I quickly downed three eiders. Chris needed to see this first hand to better understand the process before he could cut loose. His observations were in awe as the giant ducks fell and to the speed that this all transpired. We gradually inserted him into the process and guided his efforts with caution. It didn't take long for his shouldering to improve, awareness to hone in, and execution to develop. In all fairness, he respected our instruction and criticism with much grace. He was here to learn, experience, and participate while we were there to help him try something new under a correct application.


Chris with his first ever eider

Diesel scored the shot of the day as he dropped a beautiful banded hen. His smile showed a hint of elation under the guise of a more professional approach to success. The excitement of the moment was apparent, but he took it in stride. It's a great day to acquire a banded bird, this moment only cemented the success of our day.


Diesel with his banded hen eider

Within two hours, we had fulfilled our limit of twelve eiders and packed up our gear. A quick tour of the area to show some scenery, do some scouting, and run the new motor then followed. Then it was back home to help my wife with the kids who are several days into the H1N1 virus.



I'm fortunate to be able to introduce new hunters to this game, and even more fortunate that there exists an interest within the scope of the practice. There exists no question that today was a great day and I'm sure we'll be seeing Chris again.

The Downeast Duck Hunter